Rug Care Guide
A beautiful rug can transform a room — adding warmth, texture, and a sense of home. With a little care, your rug will stay soft, colourful, and inviting for many years. This guide covers everything you need to know to keep your rug looking its best, from everyday maintenance to long-term care.
Regular Cleaning
Rugs naturally attract dust and fibres over time, so regular cleaning is key to maintaining their appearance and longevity.
- Vacuum regularly: Use a suction-only vacuum or the flat nozzle attachment to lift dirt without damaging the pile. Avoid beater bars or rotary brushes, which can pull fibres loose.
- Start gently: For new rugs, vacuum once or twice a week for the first few months as initial shedding is normal.
- Shake and air: Smaller rugs can be shaken outside to remove loose particles and freshen up the fibres.
- Keep edges neat: Run the vacuum along, not over, fringes to prevent fraying or tangling.
Spot Cleaning & Spills
Accidents happen — the key is to act quickly and carefully.
- Blot, don’t rub: Use a clean, absorbent cloth or paper towel to blot liquids immediately. Rubbing can spread the stain or damage the fibres.
- Mild cleaning solution: Mix a small amount of gentle detergent or white vinegar with lukewarm water, then blot the affected area. Always test any solution on a hidden corner first.
- Avoid over-wetting: Too much moisture can weaken the backing or cause shrinkage. Work slowly, using as little liquid as possible.
- Natural drying: Let the rug air dry flat, away from direct heat or sunlight.
If the spill is oil-based, or if the rug is made from delicate fibres like viscose or wool, contact a professional cleaner.
Routine Maintenance
Proper care helps your rug wear evenly and stay vibrant for longer.
- Rotate every few months: Turn your rug 180° periodically to balance foot traffic and sunlight exposure.
- Avoid direct sunlight: Prolonged UV exposure can fade colours. Consider blinds or sheer curtains to diffuse light.
- Flattening dents: If furniture leaves marks, lightly mist the area with water and brush the pile with your hand or a soft brush while it dries.
- Minimise shedding: Regular vacuuming and gentle brushing will help loose fibres settle over time.
Underlays & Floor Protection
A rug underlay is more than just a non-slip accessory — it plays a vital role in protecting both your rug and your floor.
- Stability: Prevents slipping or movement, especially on hard floors.
- Longevity: Adds cushioning to reduce friction, which can wear down fibres.
- Protection: Stops dye transfer and prevents scratches on delicate flooring.
- Comfort: Adds an extra layer of softness underfoot.
Choose an underlay suited to your flooring type (wood, tile, or carpet) and trim it slightly smaller than your rug for a clean finish.
Deep Cleaning
Even with regular maintenance, a professional deep clean every 12–18 months will help refresh your rug.
- Professional cleaning only: Especially for wool, viscose, or natural blends. Professionals use the right pH-balanced detergents and drying methods.
- Avoid steam cleaning: Excessive heat and moisture can damage rug backing or cause colour bleeding.
- Never machine wash: Unless specified on the care label, machine washing can distort the rug’s structure and texture.
For light refreshes, sprinkle bicarbonate of soda across the surface, leave it for 15–20 minutes, and then vacuum thoroughly.
Quick Tips
- Place rugs in low-to-moderate traffic areas to extend their life.
- For pet-friendly homes, use a rug pad to catch hair and protect from scratches.
- Address snags promptly — never pull loose threads; trim them with scissors.
- Keep your rug away from open flames, heaters, and direct heat sources.
- Vacuum the floor beneath your rug occasionally to prevent grit damage.
Caring Made Simple
A little routine care goes a long way in preserving the beauty and feel of your rug. Regular vacuuming, prompt spill attention, and thoughtful placement can make all the difference — keeping your rug a comfortable, stylish foundation for your home.