Caring for a wool rug.
Moroccan wool is naturally rich in lanolin, which helps it resist stains and dirt. A little care now and then is all it needs to last for decades.
First weeks
Shedding is normal. Hand-spun wool has short, loose fibers left over from spinning and weaving, and they work their way out for the first few weeks, sometimes a couple of months for a deep-pile rug. It slows and stops on its own.
- Vacuum two or three times a week while it sheds, on low suction.
- Any creases from shipping relax in a few days. Roll it the other way for an hour to speed that up.
- A faint wool smell is natural and fades within a week or two with fresh air.
Everyday care
Wool is resilient. Regular, gentle cleaning keeps grit from wearing down the fibers.
- Vacuum once a week without the beater bar, or with it raised. Never vacuum the fringe.
- Rotate the rug every six months so it wears and fades evenly.
- Take it outside twice a year and shake it or give it a gentle beating from the back.
- Use a rug pad to keep it flat and stop it from moving.
Spills
Act quickly, and blot rather than rub. Rubbing pushes the stain deeper and roughs up the pile.
- Blot with a clean white cloth to lift as much as you can.
- Dab with cold water and a little wool-safe soap. Avoid hot water, bleach and carpet cleaners.
- Press dry with a towel, then let it air-dry fully, lying flat.
- For red wine or dark liquids, blot, then sprinkle with salt or baking soda and vacuum once dry.
Deep cleaning
Every two to four years, or after a serious accident, have it professionally washed by a specialist who cleans handmade wool rugs.
- Ask for a hand wash. Avoid steam cleaning and chemical treatments.
- For small spot cleaning at home, keep water to a minimum and make sure the base dries completely.
Fringe and scent
The fringe is the end of the warp threads the rug was woven on, so it is part of the structure.
- Don't vacuum the fringe or pull loose threads. Trim a stray thread with scissors.
- To straighten it, comb gently with your fingers.
- If the rug gets damp, dry it quickly in fresh air. Damp wool can smell like a farm for a day, which fades as it dries.