Can Shearling Get Wet? How to Care for Shearling in Rain or Snow

Summary:

Yes, shearling can get wet—but how you handle it afterward makes all the difference. Genuine shearling, made from sheepskin with the wool still attached, is naturally water-resistant to a degree, so light rain or snow usually won’t cause lasting damage. However, soaking it or drying it improperly can stiffen the leather or ruin the soft wool. Whether you own a shearling vest womens, a shearling jacket women, or one of the many beautiful shearling coats for women, understanding how to care for it in wet weather is key to keeping it looking timeless and luxurious.

Spanish Merino Shearling Sheepskin Hooded Jacket

Understanding Shearling and Its Natural Properties

Shearling is a natural material created by tanning sheepskin with the wool still intact. The wool side offers cozy insulation, while the suede or leather side provides durability and a naturally water-repellent finish. That’s why classic womens shearling coat styles have remained winter staples—they’re warm, breathable, and protective. But despite its resilience, shearling isn’t waterproof. It can handle a sprinkle or two, but it’s not meant for downpours or slushy puddles.

A faux shearling jacket, on the other hand, is made of synthetic fibers designed to mimic the texture and warmth of real shearling. Faux shearling tends to dry faster and handle moisture better, but it lacks the natural breathability and longevity of genuine shearling.

What Happens When Shearling Gets Wet

When genuine shearling absorbs too much moisture, the leather backing can harden or lose flexibility, and the wool may clump or lose its fluffiness. The damage usually happens not because of the water itself, but because of how it’s dried. Heat sources like radiators, blow dryers, or direct sunlight can cause the leather to shrink or crack. That’s why drying shearling properly—slowly and naturally—is essential to preserving its quality.

If your shearling vest or shearling jacket women gets wet in a drizzle, don’t panic. Light moisture usually evaporates naturally. Simply blot off excess water with a soft towel and allow it to air-dry in a well-ventilated space away from heat. Once dry, gently fluff the wool with your fingers or a soft-bristle brush to restore its texture.

How to Care for Shearling When It Gets Wet

1. Blot, Don’t Rub. Use a clean towel to absorb surface moisture. Avoid rubbing, which can push water deeper into the leather.

2. Let It Dry Naturally. Place your shearling item on a hanger or flat surface in a cool, dry room. Never use a dryer or hang it near a heater.

3. Shape While Damp. Smooth out any wrinkles or folds as it dries to help maintain the coat’s structure.

4. Brush After Drying. Once fully dry, use a suede brush or clean hand brush to restore the nap of the leather and fluff the wool.

5. Condition the Leather (Optional). Every few months, apply a shearling-safe conditioner to prevent the leather from becoming stiff.

A shearling vest womens or shearling bags may need extra care if they’re exposed to rain frequently, as smaller accessories tend to dry faster but may lose shape more easily.

Australian Merino Sheepskin Shearling Double-Breasted Vest

When to Seek Professional Cleaning

If your shearling has been soaked through or stained—say from salt, wine, or oil—home care might not be enough. Take it to a professional cleaner who specializes in leather and shearling. They’ll rehydrate and restore the material using methods that keep the hide soft and supple.

For example, if a womens shearling coat or faux shearling jacket gets soaked in heavy rain, a professional can help prevent permanent stiffening or discoloration. This is especially important for lighter colors, as moisture can leave uneven marks when it dries.

Caring for Faux Shearling in Wet Conditions

Faux shearling can tolerate moisture better than genuine shearling, but it still needs gentle care to prevent matting and mildew. If your faux shearling jacket gets wet:

• Shake off excess water and blot lightly.

• Hang it in a dry, airy space to dry naturally.

• Avoid direct sunlight or heaters, as they can warp the fabric backing.

• Brush the faux fur with a pet brush to restore its softness once dry.

While faux shearling is more weather-resistant, it can also trap moisture if stored before it’s completely dry, so always air it out fully.

How to Waterproof Shearling (the Right Way)

You can enhance shearling’s water resistance with a suede and leather protector spray, ideally one made for natural sheepskin. Here’s how to apply it:

1. Make sure the item is clean and dry.

2. Spray evenly from about six inches away, focusing on the outer leather or suede side.

3. Let it dry completely before wearing.

This helps repel light rain or snow while keeping the material breathable. However, avoid over-saturating the shearling, as too much spray can clog the pores and alter its texture.

Oversized Zebra Print Genuine Wool Shearling Jacket with Hood

Tips for Wearing Shearling in Wet or Humid Weather

• Check the forecast. Wear shearling on cold, dry days rather than during downpours.

• Bring an umbrella. Even though it’s water-resistant, extra protection helps prevent damage.

• Rotate your pieces. If you own multiple shearling coats for women or shearling vests, let one rest between wears so it can air out.

• Protect your accessories. If you carry shearling bags, avoid setting them on damp surfaces.

Long-Term Care and Storage

Proper storage helps shearling last for decades. Before storing for the season:

• Clean or air out your shearling pieces.

• Use a breathable garment bag—never plastic—to prevent moisture buildup.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from heat and direct sunlight.

• If storing shearling bags or smaller accessories, fill them lightly with tissue paper to help them retain shape.

The Difference Between Shearling and Faux Shearling in Rain

Both genuine and faux shearling can get wet, but real shearling needs extra attention to maintain its luxurious feel. If you live in a damp or rainy region, investing in both—a genuine shearling jacket women for crisp dry days and a faux shearling jacket for unpredictable weather—can be the perfect balance.

Mid-length Collarless V Neck Toscana Shearling Coat

Final Thoughts

So, can shearling get wet? Yes—but the key lies in how you treat it afterward. Light rain won’t harm your favorite shearling vest or womens shearling coat if you let it dry naturally and care for it properly. Avoid heat, be gentle with brushing, and condition the leather when needed. Faux shearling is more forgiving, but genuine shearling rewards patience with timeless beauty, lasting warmth, and a soft texture that only improves with age. Whether it’s a shearling vest womens, shearling jacket women, or even shearling bags, treating your shearling with care ensures that it remains a wardrobe favorite for many seasons to come.