A hand-knotted wool rug is one of the most durable things you can put on a floor. With a little routine care it will look good for decades. Here’s what to do and what to avoid.
Vacuum regularly, gently
- Vacuum once a week in busy rooms and every couple of weeks elsewhere.
- Use suction only or turn off the beater bar. A spinning brush can pull at the wool and loosen fibers over time.
- Don’t vacuum the fringe. It can catch in the vacuum and tear.
- Expect some shedding in the first few months. That’s normal for new wool and it settles down.
Deal with spills right away
- Blot, don’t rub. Press a clean, dry white cloth on the spill to soak it up. Rubbing pushes it deeper and can fuzz the pile.
- For most spills, blot with cool water, then blot dry. Work from the outside of the spot toward the center.
- Avoid hot water and harsh household cleaners. They can set stains and make dyes run.
- Wool naturally resists stains, so most spills come out if you act quickly.
Rotate and protect
- Rotate the rug every 6 to 12 months so it wears and fades evenly.
- Keep it out of strong direct sunlight where you can, or close the blinds during the brightest hours. Sun fades natural dyes over time.
- Use a rug pad. It stops slipping, protects the floor, and reduces wear on the back of the rug.
- Use furniture coasters under heavy pieces to spread the weight.
Deep cleaning
Every few years, or when the rug looks dull, have it washed by a professional who specializes in hand-knotted wool rugs. Avoid steam cleaning and general carpet cleaners, which can shrink the foundation or cause colors to bleed.
If the rug gets wet
Dry it quickly and completely. Lift it off the floor and let air circulate on both sides, using fans if needed. A rug that stays damp can develop mildew or rot in the cotton foundation.
Storing a rug
Clean the rug first, then roll it (never fold it) with the pile facing in. Wrap it in breathable cotton cloth instead of plastic and store it somewhere dry.
Looking for a new rug that will last? Ardor Home carries hundreds of new hand-knotted wool rugs. Browse them online or visit us in Downtown Frederick.
See our rugs in person. Ardor Home carries hundreds of new hand-knotted rugs at 52 South Market St in Downtown Frederick (Wed–Sat 11–6, Sun 12–5). Learn about our rug collection or browse rugs online before you visit.