How to Clean a Wool Rug With Household Items

Wool rugs are not only stylish but also durable and versatile. Cleaning them at home can help maintain their condition and extend their lifespan. With a few simple steps and common household items, you can keep your wool rug looking fresh and beautiful.

Equipment / Tools:

• Vacuum
• Broom
• 2 buckets
• Sponge
• Old towels

Materials:

• Cool water
• 1 to 2 tablespoons gentle wool wash detergent

1. Shake Out the Dirt:

• On a sunny day, take the rug outside and hang it over a sturdy surface.
• Use a broom or rug beater to hit the rug and loosen embedded dirt.
• Remove the rug pad and shake it outside.

2. Vacuum the Rug:

• Spread the rug flat on a clean surface and vacuum both sides thoroughly.
• If outside is not an option, use a dry area like the kitchen or garage.

3. Mix a Gentle Detergent Solution:

• Fill a bucket with cool water and add 1-2 tablespoons of gentle wool wash detergent.
• Fill another bucket with clean, cool water for rinsing.

4. Lightly Scrub:

• Dip a sponge into the cleaning solution and sponge a small section of the rug using gentle pressure.
• Work in a grid pattern and rinse the sponge frequently.

5. Rinse Away Suds:

• Dip a clean sponge in fresh water and “rinse” the cleaned area by dabbing it.
• Ensure no detergent residue is left behind.

6. Blot the Moisture:

• Use old towels to blot the cleaned area and absorb excess moisture.
• Move to a new section and repeat the process until the entire rug is cleaned.

7. Allow to Dry:

• Hang the rug or elevate it to improve air circulation and aid in drying.
• Ensure the rug is completely dry before placing it back on the floor.

How to Remove Stains From a Wool Rug:

• Lift away solids with a dull edge and blot up liquids immediately.
• Let mud dry before cleaning and use a dull edge tool to remove dry mud.
• Test stain remover on a white cloth before applying it to the rug.
• Use gentle stain removers suitable for wool rugs and avoid harsh chemicals like bleach.
• Try cleaning stains with baking soda by lightly sprinkling it over the affected area and vacuuming it up.

How Often to Clean a Wool Rug:

• Regular vacuuming, especially during the shedding period, helps maintain the rug’s beauty.
• Use a vacuum with a beater bar and avoid vacuuming fringed edges.
• Professional cleaning may be needed periodically, especially for wall-to-wall wool carpeting.

Can You Machine-Clean a Wool Rug?

• It’s possible to use a carpet cleaner on wool rugs, but caution must be taken to avoid damage.
• Use cool water and a wool-safe detergent, and work quickly to prevent over-wetting.
• Dry the rug thoroughly using fans, open windows, or lifting it off the ground to ensure mold growth is avoided.

Tips to Keep Your Wool Rug Clean Longer:

• Implement a “no shoes indoors” policy to reduce dirt accumulation.
• Hire professionals for wall-to-wall carpet cleaning.
• Neutralize pet odors with vinegar and water solution.
• Use dry carpet shampoo for interim cleaning.
• Rotate the rug seasonally to prevent uneven wear.
• Steam clean annually to remove deep-seated dirt.

By following these steps and tips, you can effectively clean and maintain your wool rug using household items, ensuring it remains a beautiful and functional part of your home decor for years to come.