Reviews
Skip to content

Rug Care Guide

Looking after your rug will keep it looking its best for years to come. This guide offers simple but effective tips for caring for different types of rugs.

Our rugs come with a guarantee against any manufacturing defects. We work closely with our manufacturers to maintain the highest standards of quality. If your rug arrives with a fault, or develops one shortly after delivery, please get in touch with our customer service team and we'll be happy to help.

General Rug Care:

  • Location is Key: Where you place your rug makes a big difference to how long it lasts. Rugs with delicate fibres or intricate weaves are best suited to areas with less foot traffic. Think about putting them in quieter rooms like bedrooms or studies. For more hard-wearing rugs, a "no shoes" policy is a great idea. Asking family and visitors to remove their shoes when they come in not only protects the rug from dirt and wear, but also makes for a more comfortable home.

  • Regular Cleaning is Essential: Keeping your rug clean is vital for removing dirt, dust, allergens and keeping it looking its best.

    • Vacuuming: Regular vacuuming is the first step. It gets rid of loose dirt and gets the rug ready for a deeper clean. Use a vacuum attachment without a rotating brush, as this can be too harsh on the rug's fibres, especially around the edges and corners.

    • Professional Cleaning: While you can clean rugs at home, it's a good idea to have them professionally cleaned every so often, especially if they have stubborn stains or are very dirty. Before you take your rug to the cleaners, have a good look at it and let them know if you have any specific concerns.

Caring for Different Rug Materials:

  • Shaggy Rugs: Shaggy rugs have a long pile, so you need to be gentle with them. Start by shaking the rug outside to get rid of any loose dirt. Then, use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner to carefully clean between the strands.

  • Sheepskin Rugs: Sheepskin rugs need special care. Always read the care instructions that come with the rug. For regular upkeep, use a sheepskin wire brush to fluff the pile and remove any loose bits. You can also have them professionally cleaned or dry-cleaned. For hand washing:

    1. Use cool or lukewarm water (never hot).
    2. Add a special sheepskin detergent (non-enzyme).
    3. Gently swish the rug in the water for a few minutes.
    4. Carefully squeeze out as much water as you can (it's easier with two people).
    5. Dry the rug flat on a towel or hang it up in a cool, shady place, away from direct sunlight or heat.
    6. While it's still a bit damp, use a metal-bristled sheepskin brush to fluff up the wool. Do this again while it's drying, and once more when it's completely dry.
  • Natural Fibres (Sisal/Jute): These rugs need to be vacuumed regularly. If you spill anything on them, blot it straight away (don't rub) and remove as much moisture as possible. Viscose rugs are different – they can be easily damaged by water.

  • Viscose Rugs: Viscose rugs are particularly vulnerable to water damage. It's really important to keep them dry, so don't put them in rooms where they might get wet, like kitchens. Spills can cause lasting damage and might mean you can't return or get a refund for the rug.

Making Your Rug Last Longer:

  • Rotation: Turning your rug regularly will help it wear evenly.
  • Furniture Placement: Moving your furniture around now and then changes the way people walk on the rug and stops it from wearing out in one spot.
  • Stair Rugs: Moving stair rugs slightly from time to time can help them last longer.
  • Entrance Mats: Using mats at doorways helps to stop dirt and bits of grit from getting onto your rug in the first place.
  • Footwear: Avoid wearing shoes with rough soles or high heels on your rugs.

Keeping Colours Bright:

Sunlight can make colours fade. Think about using curtains or blinds to filter the sunlight, especially in rooms with skylights or conservatories. Turning your rug regularly will help to even out any fading.

What to Do if...:

  • Your Rug Isn't Lying Flat: Sometimes rugs can get creases or curled edges when they've been stored or delivered. This is usually temporary and will sort itself out once the rug has settled into the room. Rolling it up the opposite way or using a rug pad can help.