How to Clean Wool Area Rugs Without Damaging Them

Rugs are magical portals to a world of comfort and coziness. They make our homes feel warm, inviting, and just a tad bit fancier (if you pick the right rug size). But let’s face it, over time, wool area rugs tend to collect more crumbs and pet fur than a couch potato’s snack tray. Here’s how to clean rugs made with 100% wool

First, shake it off

Let’s start with the basics of cleaning rugs.

Take it outside and give it a gentle shake. Not a tug-of-war, but enough to loosen up dust and dry debris. Lay it over a railing or clothesline and beat it softly with a broom handle. Trust me, you’ll be surprised what comes out.

Bonus tip: Don’t do this in your Sunday best—the dust cloud is real.

Vacuum smart (but gently!)

Vacuum your rug once a week. It’s like giving it a mini-spa day. Don’t use a rotating brush or beater bar to vacuum wool area rugs.  Use a clear head that has no rotating component. Set it to the lowest suction.

Always vacuum with the pile direction not against it. What does that mean?

If you move your hand on a wool rug (parallel to the length), on one side your hand will glide smoothly. In the reverse direction you will feel some resistance from wool pile. Always move your vacuum in the direction the hand moves smoothly. This keeps the fibers intact and prevents fuzzing. If your rug has fringes, skip them completely. They hate vacuums.

Spot clean, don’t soak

Spill something? Don’t panic. Accidents happen, folks.

The trick is to get rid of pesky stains RIGHT AWAY! Act fast. When you clean rug spills while they’re still wet, the stain doesn’t set in. Here’s how you do it:

• Mix warm water with a bit of dish soap, and dab the affected area using a clean cloth or toothbrush.
• Or you can sprinkle some baking soda on the stain, add warm water, let it sit for a bit, and then gently dab with a clean cloth.

Don’t scrub. Dab. Be gentle. Be kind. The key is persistence. Blot. Blot. Blot. Until the stain gradually fades. This Instagram reel  (not mine, but it mirrors my process) shows exactly how to clean rugs made with wool. Let the section air dry completely. No heat. No hair dryers.

Since my area rugs use vegetable dyes and are weaved with natural wool, spot cleaning won’t cause any shrinking or color bleeding!

Air it out, naturally

Rugs love a little vitamin D.

Once in a while, give your rug a sunbath. Just not for too long. A couple of hours in gentle morning sunlight helps eliminate odors and refreshes the wool. Avoid harsh midday rays, which can fade colors. Flip it to let both sides breathe. Clean rugs love airflow.

Leave it to the pros

Sometimes, wool area rugs need a little extra TLC. If the stain is serious or rug hasn’t been cleaned in years. That’s where the professionals come in. Give the rug to a local, trusted cleaner once every few months

What not to do with wool area rug

• Don’t steam clean or use harsh chemicals
• Don’t hang wet rugs on a line (the weight can stretch them)
• Don’t scrub with stiff brushes
• Don’t toss them in the washing machine, ever!

Wool rugs are like good friends. They just need a little love and regular care. A light routine goes a long way. And if you’re ever unsure, send me a message. I’d much rather talk you through a coffee spill than see your Oushak in distress!

Stay cozy, and keep those rugs spick and span,

Ashni

XOXO

P.S. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance, high-style area rug, check out our hand-knotted wool collection. They’re made to last.