How to Care for a Wool Rug (And Make It Last Decades)

Wool is naturally resilient. Its fibres spring back under pressure, resist soiling and are slow to catch fire. A little routine care keeps a good wool rug looking new for decades.

Weekly

Vacuum on low suction with the beater bar or rotating brush switched off, which can pull at the pile and damage knots. Some light shedding in the first months is normal as loose fibres from finishing work their way out.

When something spills

Act quickly and blot, never rub. Press a clean white cloth into the spill to lift as much as possible, then dab with cold water and a little wool-safe detergent. Blot dry and let the area air dry fully before walking on it.

Every six to twelve months

Rotate the rug so it wears and fades evenly, especially if one side sits in sunlight. Keep it out of prolonged direct sun where you can.

Use a good rug pad underneath. It stops slipping, cushions the fibres against the floor and helps the rug last longer.

Deep cleaning

Every one to two years, have the rug professionally cleaned by a specialist in handmade rugs. Never machine wash, steam clean or soak a wool rug at home, particularly a tufted rug with a latex backing, which moisture can weaken.