Expert Advice
Rug Care Guide
Keep your rugs beautiful for generations
When Your Rug Arrives
Settling In
Rugs are delivered rolled for protection. When unrolled, your rug may need a few days to fully flatten. This is completely normal.
- Unroll the rug and lay it flat in position
- Minor waves and creases will settle within 1-2 days
- For stubborn areas, roll the rug in the opposite direction for a few hours
- In extreme cases, place heavy books on flat areas overnight
Shedding
New rugs, especially wool and hand-tufted rugs, may shed loose fibres for the first few weeks. This is completely normal and doesn't indicate poor quality. Regular vacuuming will reduce shedding, which typically stops after a few months.
Rug Pads
We strongly recommend using a rug pad under all rugs. They're particularly important on hard floors and for larger rugs.
Benefits of Rug Pads
- Safety: Prevents slipping and tripping
- Protection: Reduces wear and extends rug life
- Comfort: Adds cushioning underfoot
- Floor protection: Prevents colour transfer to floors
- Air circulation: Allows air to flow, reducing moisture buildup
Tip: Choose a rug pad slightly smaller than your rug (about 2cm smaller on all sides) so it doesn't show around the edges.
Regular Maintenance
Vacuuming
Regular vacuuming is the most important thing you can do to maintain your rug. It removes dirt before it works its way into the fibres.
- Vacuum weekly for rugs in high-traffic areas
- Use appropriate settings - avoid beater bars on delicate or hand-knotted rugs
- For shag or high-pile rugs, use suction only or a handheld attachment
- Vacuum in both directions to lift the pile
- Occasionally vacuum the back of the rug as well
Rotation
Rotate your rug 180 degrees every 6-12 months. This ensures even wear and prevents fading in areas exposed to more sunlight.
Stain Removal
Immediate Action
- Blot, don't rub - rubbing spreads the stain and damages fibres
- Work from the outside of the stain inward
- Use a clean, white cloth to avoid colour transfer
- For solids, gently scrape up excess with a spoon
Cleaning Solutions
For most spills, start with the mildest solution:
- Cold water only
- Mild dish soap diluted in cold water
- Equal parts white vinegar and water (test first)
Warning: Never use bleach, hydrogen peroxide, or harsh chemicals. Always test any cleaning solution in an inconspicuous area first.
Professional Cleaning
For valuable, antique, or handmade rugs, we strongly recommend professional cleaning for any significant stains. Professional cleaners have the expertise and equipment to clean without damaging delicate fibres.
Positioning and Protection
Sunlight
Prolonged direct sunlight can fade colours. If your rug is in a sunny spot:
- Rotate regularly to ensure even fading
- Use curtains or blinds during peak sun hours
- Consider UV-filtering window film
Furniture Placement
- Use furniture cups under heavy furniture legs to prevent indentations
- Avoid placing very heavy furniture directly on delicate rugs
- Rotate furniture slightly when rotating the rug
Storage
If you need to store your rug:
- Clean thoroughly before storage
- Roll (don't fold) with the pile facing inward
- Wrap in breathable cotton or muslin - never plastic
- Store in a cool, dry place
- Check periodically for pests
- Never store in damp areas, attics with temperature extremes, or directly on concrete
Questions about rug care?
We're happy to help with any care or maintenance questions.