Medical sheepskin

Medical sheepskins are often used by people with fragile skin, discomfort from standard bedding or increased risk of friction and moisture-related skin problems. They may be recommended for people who spend long periods in bed or sitting, or who are at risk of skin breakdown on heels, hips or shoulders. Use should always follow advice from a nurse or allied health professional as part of a wider pressure care plan.

Many medical sheepskins are washable using a cool or gentle cycle and special wool detergents, but it is essential to follow the care label. Incorrect washing, spin-drying or heat can damage the leather backing and reduce the life of the sheepskin. Some facilities may prefer professional laundering according to their infection control policies.

No. Medical sheepskins are specially processed for use in healthcare. They usually have higher wool density, specific pile length and leather treatments to support comfort, moisture management and repeated cleaning. Regular decorative sheepskins are not designed or tested for pressure care and should not be used as a substitute. Detailed specifications are often available in our product catalogues .

No. Medical sheepskins are usually used alongside appropriate mattresses and cushions, not instead of them. They can help improve comfort, manage friction and moisture and support skin protection in specific areas, but they do not replace regular turning, skin checks or a clinically prescribed pressure care surface.

Medical sheepskins can be placed on beds, chairs or recliners, depending on the person’s needs. They should lie flat with no folds or wrinkles and should not cover or interfere with important safety labels or mattress function. Positioning and size should be guided by a nurse or therapist, particularly for people with higher pressure injury risk.

In many cases, medical sheepskins are funded as assistive technology under the NDIS when they are prescribed or recommended by an allied health professional and linked to goals such as skin protection, comfort and staying at home safely. The funding pathway depends on risk level and the overall pressure care plan. For more information on assistive technology and funding, you can visit the NDIS page on assistive technology explained . Our team can provide quotes, product specifications and invoices for participants, support coordinators and plan managers.

Medical sheepskins are generally purchased rather than hired because of hygiene and laundering requirements. However, some pressure care items may be available for short-term hire through our dedicated hire service at https://hire.shhc.com.au/ . From our Bentleigh showroom in Melbourne, Victoria, we supply medical sheepskins and pressure care products across Melbourne, including the Mornington Peninsula and Bellarine Peninsula, with shipping to many locations Australia wide. If you are unsure which product is suitable, please contact our team with details from your nurse or therapist so we can help narrow down options.