Wool is a material that people adore for its durability and gorgeous appearance. It’s not only popular for clothing, but it’s desirable for rugs as well.
With the right care, wool rugs can last for decades! Find out the most effective ways to care for wool rugs so that you can continue to enjoy their beauty.
Vacuum Twice a Month
If you allow any item to go too long without regular cleaning, dirt, grime, and bacteria will only accumulate more within it. Wool rugs are very durable but need some help to retain their brilliance.
To effectively care for wool rugs, vacuum them at least twice a month. Pet hair and dirt are two of the most common substances that easily gather in rugs. Vacuuming often will also prevent the material from collecting various contaminants that may damage it.
Spot Clean With Vinegar
Wool rugs can withstand strong impacts and items without a hitch. That’s why you can use vinegar to address a stubborn wool rug stain. Its acidic yet gentle properties make it ideal for removing pet-based, food, and dirt stains from wool rugs.
Place ¼ cup of vinegar and 2 cups of water together in a spray bottle. Apply the solution to a clean white cloth and blot the stain until it disappears. Afterward, be sure to rinse the affected area with water to remove any lingering vinegar.
Stay Away From Excessive Water
Wool has natural moisture-wicking fibers that make it incredibly water resistant. However, when you get the rug excessively wet, odors and mold can grow within the fibers.
When spot-cleaning a stain with cold water, you must remember to dab the area lightly. Try not to add too much water to the fibers. If you accidentally apply excessive water, use a fan to remove lingering moisture.
Have a Good Wool Rug Cleaner Handy
Not every cleaning product is ideal for wool materials. Choose a product that clearly states it’s safe to use on wool. These kinds of cleaning solutions won’t leave residue, will lack harmful additives, and will have low alkalinity to protect the color of the fibers.
Spray the cleaner onto a white cloth. Gently rub the affected area to scrub away the stain. If the stain still appears after applying the cleaner, rinse the cloth and repeat the process.
Always Avoid Using Bleach
Stains happen! And while bleach is an effective fix for cotton, nylon, polyester, and rayon, it’s unsuitable for wool. Bleach can dissolve the wool fibers and ruin the rug’s integrity.
Make sure you avoid cleaning products that contain bleach as well. It’s a common cleaning agent for disinfecting surfaces. While it’s suitable for many areas, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms, it’s not the right choice for wool.
Schedule a Regular Professional Cleaning
Although wool is one of the most durable rug materials you can choose, it needs professional care. It’s always a good idea to schedule regular professional cleanings for the rugs in your home. Doing so will prolong the rug’s lifespan and even improve your house’s air quality. When you want your favorite wool rug to last a lifetime, this is an easy step to ensure it does.
