how to clean a rug.

Rugs cover so much more than floors.

They’re great for tying a room together, warming our toes, or hiding things underneath! 

BUT they’re not so great when they smell like a dog or they’ve just soaked up the contents of a red wine glass. Every rug is going to need a clean eventually, so we’re here to cover your rug rescue mission. Whatever it’s made from.

the basics.

First things first, here’s your standard rug clean:

• Shake it out (if your neighbours don’t mind).
• Vacuum thoroughly on both sides to ditch dust and dander.
• Spot check a test patch before you try any cleaning product.
• Use a mild detergent or rug shampoo (and follow the instructions always)
• Avoid overwetting (unless you want soggy underlay and odd smells).
• Dry thoroughly in a well-ventilated space or outside in the shade.

a deeper clean by rug type.

For those times when your rug is really in need of some TLC then it’s worth noting that different rug types require different cleaning methods. 

1. wool & cotton.

These rugs are softer… and should be handled with care.  

• Vacuum or shake the rug.
• Mix 2 pumps of smol washing up liquid in a bowl of cold water (or use a wool-friendly shampoo).
• Dampen a clean cloth and dab, don’t soak, following the direction of the fibres.
• Rinse with another cloth dipped in plain water.
• Blot dry with a towel and air dry fully before putting it back.

2. shaggy, fluffy or deep pile.

More fluff can spell more drama but these rugs are still totally cleanable.

• Sprinkle on a dry carpet shampoo or bicarbonate of soda.
• Work it in gently with a cloth.
• Leave for a few hours (or overnight if possible).
• Vacuum if the pile is under 5cm. Shake it out if the pile is longer.

3. jute.

Natural and lovely-looking (but water is its nemesis).

• Cover with dry shampoo only or bicarbonate of soda.
• Avoid getting it wet at all costs.
• Leave for a few hours (or overnight)
• Vacuum gently and regularly to keep it tidy.

4. sheepskin or cowhide.

Caring for these will help you avoid having to call in the professionals.

• Fill a bath with cool water + sheepskin-specific detergent.
• Swish the rug gently for 5 to 10 mins.
• Rinse well and squeeze out water (no wringing!).
• Pat with towels, reshape the hide, and air dry away from sunlight or heat.
• Use a sheepskin brush while damp and again once dry to fluff it up.

5. viscose.

These rugs are shiny but delicate and always remember - they HATE water. 

• Avoid wet cleaning.
• Use a soft-bristled brush to lift debris.
• For spills, blot with a dry cloth. Fast.

6. outdoor.

Outdoor rugs have become increasingly popular (especially as the weather gets warmer her in the UK) but they can be tough to clean.

• Hang and beat out the dirt with a broom handle (satisfying).
• Hose down with cold water.
• Leave outside to air dry fully.

and how about some handy stain hacks…

red wine

• Blot quickly with a clean cloth.
• Mix 3 parts bicarbonate of soda to 1 part cold water and blot mixture onto stain.
• Not got bicarb? Try equal parts clear vinegar, washing up liquid and warm water.
• Blot clean with cold water.

tea & coffee

• Blot first (no scrubbing).
• Mix equal parts clear vinegar to cold water and gently dab onto stain.
• Blot clean with cold water.

nail polish

• Use non-acetone nail varnish remover (test first).
• Or try window cleaner or hairspray on a sponge.
• For dried polish, blot on equal parts surgical spirit and remover, then gently brush and vacuum.

mud & dirt

• Let the mud dry.
• Brush or vacuum it off once it has dried.
• For mud stains: try 2 tbsp table salt in half a cup of clear vinegar, blot on the mixture, then vacuum.

and to deodorise?

Bicarbonate of soda is your friend. Sprinkle it generously all over the surface of your rug and leave it for as long as you can (preferably overnight). Then vacuum it thoroughly (you can repeat the whole process if needed).