A wool rug is something that can make a New York house seem and feel warm, inviting, and fashionable. The natural fibers are tough and last a long time but you have to be careful when cleaning it. Cleaning your own rug can be difficult because if you don't do it right, it can get smaller or lose its color. What’s the good news? You may learn how to clean a wool rug at home with appropriate techniques. This article will show you how to properly and effectively clean your rug and how to handle accidents that happen all the time.
What To Consider Before Cleaning a Wool Rug
Get everything ready before starting cleaning so that the cleaning goes properly and is safe. You can keep your money safe and prevent making mistakes by following these initial steps. First, look at the label from the manufacturer to check if it has a care tag. It advises you how to clean each thing in the best way. To determine if the color will stay, put your cleaning solution in a hidden spot (such a corner) and wipe it with a white cloth. Don't wet clean if the color shifts.
A Step By Step Guide On How to Clean a Wool Rug at Home
This is a quick and safe approach to wipe up spills and other messes in general. It’s crucial to be careful and not to get too wet.
- Step 1: If you spill, act immediately! Instead of rubbing the area, wipe it with a clean, white towel. Begin on the exterior and work your way in to stop the stain from spreading.
- Step 2: Fill a bowl with cold water and a few drops of your mild detergent. Avoid using bleach, vinegar, and other strong chemicals that can damage wool fibers.
- Step 3: Soak a cloth in the solution, wring it out so it's merely damp, and then gently dab the dirty spot. Don't let the rug get too wet.
- Step 4: Wipe the area with a towel that has been dipped in clean, cold water, and then rinse it off. After that, use a dry towel to soak up as much water as you can.
Pro Tip: The Dry Refresh Method
This dry approach is perfect for getting rid of unwanted smells or quickly cleaning your property between deep cleans. The method is safe and works effectively. First, put a thick layer of baking soda on the whole area of your dried carpeting. This natural deodorizer will assist in getting rid of scents that are nasty. Wait at least 30 minutes or overnight before vacuuming it up for the greatest effects.
The Last Step: Letting It Dry
The last and most critical step in cleaning your wool rug is to let it dry completely. Cleaning items is just as vital as drying them. If you don't dry them properly, they can get moldy, mildewy, and shrink. For the best results, use fans, open windows, or run a dehumidifier to blow air over and beneath the carpeting. This is especially useful because the weather in our area is changing. Never be in direct sunshine or heat. Don't put a damp wool rug in the sun, use a hair dryer, or a space heater. The fibers will get smaller and the colors will fade.
Tip: Rotating while drying
If possible, flip the rug over every few hours to help it dry quickly. This also helps your rug last longer by making sure that it wears evenly over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How to clean a wool rug at home with steam?
It’s not a good idea. The heat and dampness can make the wool strands shrink and feel, which could destroy your rug for sure.
Q2: Is it safe to clean wool rugs with vinegar?
If you can, don't use vinegar. Over time, the acidity can break down the natural proteins in wool, which makes the fibers weaker.
Q3: How often do I need to clean my wool rug at home?
You should vacuum high-traffic areas 2-3 times a week and the entire rug weekly. For a comprehensive deep clean, a full process on how to clean a wool rug safely should be undertaken every 12 to 18 months.
Q4: What should I do if washing my rug makes it smaller?
Things normally shrink when they get too much water or heat, and this is usually irreversible. To keep your precious carpets in good shape, you should have a professional clean them all the time.
Q5: What can I do to get rid of a scent that won't go away?
Baking soda is an excellent and safe initial step. If the stench of dogs or mold won't go away, you usually have to hire someone to clean it.
Restore Your Rug to Its Original Beauty
You may know how to clean a wool rug at home to keep it looking beautiful, but in some situations, you need to hire a professional to handle it. If you have stains that won't come out, pet smells that won't go away, or if you just want to make sure your important or pricey rug gets the best clean possible without taking any chances, it's time to bring in the specialists.
Brooklyn Carpet Cleaning can make your wool rugs look better and last longer. Contact us today for a free and no obligation quote. We'll help you keep your money safe for a long time.