Sherpa lined leggings are a winter essential, loved for their warmth, plush feel, and cozy comfort. But as with all soft fabrics, proper care is key to preserving that buttery texture and insulating performance. Without the right maintenance, sherpa can become matted, lose its softness, or even shrink. To keep your leggings looking and feeling like new, follow this practical guide to cleaning and caring for your sherpa lined favorites.
Why Sherpa Needs Special Care
Sherpa is a synthetic fabric designed to mimic the warmth and texture of wool or sheepskin. It’s fluffy, insulating, and ultra-soft—but also delicate. Improper washing or drying can:
- Flatten the fibers
- Cause pilling or matting
- Break down stretch and elasticity
- Reduce thermal insulation
Understanding how to clean it properly will extend the life of your leggings.
Step-by-Step Washing Instructions
1. Read the Care Label
Before anything else, check the tag inside your leggings. Some sherpa fabrics may be machine-washable, while others require more gentle treatment. If your leggings include spandex, nylon, or polyester blends, the label will help you avoid mistakes.
2. Turn Inside Out
Turning your leggings inside out before washing protects the exterior fabric and preserves the soft lining.
3. Use Cold Water
Always wash sherpa lined leggings in cold water to prevent shrinkage and protect the integrity of the lining.
4. Choose a Gentle Detergent
Pick a mild detergent that’s free from harsh chemicals, bleach, or fabric softeners, which can coat the sherpa fibers and make them stiff.
5. Use the Gentle Cycle
Machine wash your leggings on a delicate or hand-wash cycle. If you’re unsure, consider hand washing them in a basin with gentle swishing and minimal wringing.
Drying Tips for Sherpa Lined Leggings
1. Skip the Dryer
High heat can destroy the soft sherpa fibers. Instead, air dry flat on a clean towel or drying rack, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
2. Avoid Hanging
Hanging wet sherpa-lined leggings can cause stretching or warping. Lay them flat to dry in their natural shape.
3. Fluff with a Brush (Optional)
If the sherpa begins to look matted or compressed, use a soft-bristle brush (like a baby hairbrush or garment brush) to gently revive the texture. Brush in short strokes in one direction to lift the fibers.
How Often Should You Wash Them?
Unlike regular leggings, sherpa lined ones don’t need washing after every wear—unless they’re stained or soiled. Washing them after every 3–5 wears will help retain their softness and prolong their lifespan.
Storage Tips to Keep Them Cozy
- Fold instead of hanging to avoid stretching out the fabric.
- Store them in a cool, dry place—avoid plastic bins that can trap moisture.
- For seasonal storage, place them in breathable cotton garment bags or storage cubes to prevent odor and fiber compression.
What to Avoid
❌ Fabric softener or dryer sheets – They coat the sherpa, making it stiff.
❌ High heat drying – It melts or flattens the lining.
❌ Harsh detergent – Can irritate the fabric and cause pilling.
❌ Over-washing – Reduces lifespan and softness.
Bonus: Reviving Old Sherpa Leggings
If your sherpa lined leggings have already lost their softness, try these tips:
- Wash gently in cold water with a tablespoon of white vinegar to help break down residue.
- Air dry and fluff the lining with a brush or by hand.
- Use a fabric shaver to remove any surface pills if needed.
Final Thoughts
Sherpa lined leggings are the ultimate blend of function and comfort—but they do need a little extra love to stay in top condition. By washing gently, air drying, and skipping harsh products, you’ll keep your leggings cozy, soft, and winter-ready for many seasons to come. With just a few mindful steps, your sherpa-lined staples will stay just as warm and plush as the day you bought them.
