Introduction
Wool rugs are loved for their durable nature and cozy touch they add to homes. However, they are also collect dust and get soiled quickly.
Learning the steps on how to clean a wool rug without damaging the material or shape is thus beneficial. You should also know the proper cleaning tools and materials to use.
Besides, cleaning rugs in time is something you should follow religiously. Dirty rugs breed bacteria, especially when wet, causing health hazards. A clean rug will ensure improved indoor air quality and enhanced comfort.
Another good reason to clean your rugs regularly is that unkempt rugs have shorter lifespan.
Shake the dirt out from your rug and vacuum regularly. Other crucial cleaning steps involves spot cleaning, using a dry rug shampoo, deep cleaning, and drying the rug.
Keep reading to uncover the wool rug cleaning steps. Also, gather tips to keep your wool rug clean longer along the way.
What You’ll Need
1. Equipment / Tools
- Vacuum cleaner with suction settings that can be adjusted and has an upholstery attachment (Check out the best vacuum cleaners here)
- Soft-bristle brush to scrub stains
- Microfiber cloths or sponges
- Bucket
- Fan or dehumidifier to speed up drying
- Soft towels to blot excess moisture
- Rug beater to loosen dirt on larger rugs
2. Materials
- Mild wool-specific detergent
- White vinegar and water for mild stain removal
- Baking soda to absorb odors
- Carpet Shampoo (Find the best air fresheners for your home)
How to Clean a Wool Rug
Shaking out the dirt
Take your rug to a corner outside and shake it vigorously. It will remove loose dirt, dust, and debris. If you have large rugs, hang them over a strong clothesline and use a rug beater to loosen the dirt.
Vacuuming the rug
Use the suction to suck up accumulated dust from both sides of the rug. But how do you clean a wool rug that is delicate without damaging the fibers? For delicate rugs, you can use the upholstery attachment in the vacuum. This will clean your rug without causing damage.
Spot cleaning stains
Using a clean, dry microfiber cloth, blot the spills immediately. Avoid rubbing. You can then make a mixture of wool-safe detergent with water. Dip a sponge in the mixture and dab on the stain gently. If there are stubborn stains, use a solution of white vinegar and water. Next, rinse the cleansed spot with a damp cloth and blot dry your rug.
Using a dry rug shampoo
Another tip on how to clean wool rug involves using a dry rug shampoo. Using a dry rug shampoo over the rug will absorb the dirt and foul odors.
Let the solution sit for at least 30 minutes or follow the product’s instructions. Vacuum thoroughly to remove the powder. Alternately, sprinkle baking soda over the surface of the rug. Allow the solution to sit overnight. Vacuum up in the morning.
Deep cleaning
Here’s another tip on how to wash a wool rug using a deep-cleansing method. Make a solution of mild wool-safe detergent and water in a bucket. Allow the rug to soak in the solution for a while. Next, using a soft brush, gently scrub the rug’s surface. Follow up by rinsing it with a damp cloth. You can use a wet or dry vacuum to remove excess moisture.
Drying the rug
Dring the rug is a crucial step in the wool carpet cleaning process. Find a shaded area outside and lay the rug flat over a clean surface to air dry. It is crucial to avoid direct sunlight as it makes the rug fade faster. It may take up to 24 hours for the rug to completely dry.
Alternately, use a fan or a dehumidifier to speed up the drying process, ensuring to dry the rug completely. You can then fluff the fibers using a soft brush to restore their texture.
Tips to Keep Your Wool Rug Clean Longer
- Vacuum regularly: Vacuuming your rug at least once a week will keep dust at bay and prevent dirt buildup. If the dirt is deeply embedded in the carpet fibers, use a suction-only vacuum. For cleaning delicate rugs, use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment. Knowing how to clean a wool rug with a vacuum is crucial to prevent dirt buildup and extend its lifespan.
- Shake out the rug: Occasionally, take the rug outside and give it a vigorous shake to remove dirt and dust. If you have larger rugs, use a rug beater.
- Rotate the rug: To prevent high-traffic areas from wearing out too quickly, rotate your rug every 5 to 6 months.
- Use rug pads: Placing a non-slip rug pad underneath the rug will protect it and reduce wear. Rug pads absorb the impact of weight while keeping the rug in place. (Find the best kitchen rugs here)
- Address spills immediately: How to clean a wool carpet after spilling coffee over it? Bolt spills immediately using a clean, dry cloth. Avoid rubbing. If there are stains, clean it using a mild detergent or white vinegar solution.
- Limit sun exposure: Shield your rug from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
- Keep shoes off: Removing your shoes before entering your room will reduce dirt and dust from being tracked onto the rug. Always keep a doormat outside.
- Control pet hair and accidents: Brushing your pet’s hair regularly will avoid shedding. Also, use an enzyme-based cleaner to clean pet stains and prevent odors.
- Freshen up with baking soda: Another solution on how to clean wool carpet and keep it clean longer can be found in this blog. Sprinkling baking soda on the rug can absorb odors. Let it sit on the rug for at least 15-30 minutes. Then, vacuum it thoroughly. Also, adding a few drops of your preferred essential oil to the baking soda will give your rug a pleasant scent.
- Protect from moths: Cedar blocks or lavender bags are good moth repellents. Get help from a pest consultant if you find any signs of moths in your rug.
- Get professional cleaning when needed: Have your wool rug professionally cleaned every 1 to 2 years to maintain its quality. Professional cleaners understand how to handle you wool type and will use appropriate wool rug cleaning techniques without causing shrinkage or damage.
Conclusion
Cleaning wool rugs start with shaking out the dirt and vacuuming. The process is followed by spot-cleaning stains, using a dry rug shampoo, and deep cleaning.
A regular maintenance of your rug will ensure durability, aesthetics, texture, and color. It prevents the buildup of dirt and allergens. Vacuum your rug once or twice a week to help prevent mold from forming. It will ensure that you are breathing cleaner air while extending the rug’s lifespan.
Consider hiring a professional cleaner every 1 to 2 years for thorough rug cleaning. Professionals are equipped with extensive knowledge of cleaning wool rugs and have cleaning solutions readily available. Allow them to clean your rug without causing damage or shrinking.
FAQs
Can I use a carpet cleaner machine to wash a wool rug?
Washing your wool rug in a carpet cleaner machine damages the fibres, causing shrinkage due to the high moisture content.
Are 100% wool rugs easy to clean?
Yes, 100% wool rugs are easy to clean. Follow the wool carpet cleaning process above to clean your rug without causing damage.
Is it OK to steam-clean a wool rug?
It is OK to steam clean your rug, provided you use a wool-specific cleaning solution. Also, don’t forget to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Can I machine-wash a wool rug?
No, washing your wool rug in a washing machine can cause it to shrink and damage the fiber. It is best to hand-wash or follow dry cleaning process. Follow the steps above on how to clean wool carpet to ensure your rug doesn’t get damaged during the cleaning process.
How do you get stains out of 100% wool carpet?
The solution to how do you clean a wool rug with stains is to act fast. Bolt up as much liquid as possible using a clean cloth. Next, use a diluted solution of wool-safe detergent and water to dab the stain. For stubborn stains, it is advisable to use a specialized wool carpet cleaner.
How often should I clean my wool rug?
It is crucial to vacuum your wool rug once or twice a week. Consider hiring a professional for deep cleaning every 1 to 2 years.
Can I use a steam cleaner on a wool rug?
While a steam cleaner effectively removes dirt and stains from most carpets, it is not meant for wool rugs. Steam cleaner can damage wool rugs. Follow the tips on how to wash a wool rug above to clean your rug without causing any damage.
What should I do if my wool rug shrinks?
For minor shrinkage, gently stretch the rug while damp, applying gentle tension. Use a hair dryer on a cool setting over the rug to help relax the fibers.
For major shrinkage, it is recommended to contact a professional rug cleaner. They will use specialized techniques to help restore its size without damaging the wool.
Are there any cleaning products I should avoid?
While cleaning wool rugs, avoid products with fragrances and harsh chemicals. Never mix bleach or products containing bleach with a cleaner that contains ammonia. It can cause chronic breathing problems and can even lead to death.
How can I eliminate odors from my wool rug?
To get rid of odors from a wool rug, use a dry rug shampoo. Alternately, sprinkle baking soda over the surface. Let it sit for several hours or overnight and vacuum it thoroughly.
