How can I clean my wool rug?

Out of the corner of your eye, you spot a little mark on your wool rug. How do you remove it and keep that lovely softness intact? On this page, we'll walk you through, step by step, how you can clean a wool rug yourself.

How can I clean my wool rug? | Advice from Volero - the rug shop of the Netherlands

Cleaning your wool rug yourself

Wool comes from animal coats. Sheep, alpacas and merinos are known for their thick fleece. Producing wool is an animal and environmentally friendly process. Once sheared, the sheep simply grow a new, warm coat. Not only do sheep love the fresh air: your wool rug loves it too! Does your wool rug smell a bit musty? To freshen it up and remove unwanted odours, fresh outdoor air can work wonders. Simply hang the wool rug out on the washing line. Want to get rid of crumbs and dust at the same time? Give it a good old-fashioned beating!

Cleaning your wool rug with household remedies

There are different ways to clean your wool rug. Before we explain which household remedies you can use to clean your wool rug, we'll give you a few tips first.

• Always test the cleaning method first on a small, inconspicuous part of your wool rug so you can be sure it won't damage your rug
• Don't use too much water when cleaning your wool rug. It can take a long time for wool to dry, which risks it developing a musty smell

How to remove odours from a wool rug

The best way to remove odours from a wool rug is with baking soda. This natural remedy neutralises smells without damaging the wool. Sprinkle a thin layer over the rug, let it sit for at least a few hours and then vacuum it up carefully. Good ventilation will help get the rug completely fresh again. If in doubt, always test on a small area first.

How to remove old stains from a wool rug

Remove old stains from a wool rug with lukewarm water and a small amount of special wool detergent, such as Woolite or a mild enzyme-free shampoo. Gently blot the stain with a clean cloth and don't rub, to prevent damage to the wool. Let it sit for a short while, then blot dry and let the rug air well. Always test first on an inconspicuous spot.

How to clean a white wool rug

Clean a white wool rug with lukewarm water and a small amount of wool detergent, such as Woolite or an enzyme-free shampoo. Gently blot stains with a clean cloth and don't rub, to prevent discolouration or damage. Vacuum regularly with a vacuum cleaner without a rotating brush to remove dust and dirt. After cleaning, let the rug dry and air thoroughly. Always test cleaning products on a small, inconspicuous area first.

What does it cost to have a wool rug professionally cleaned?

Professional cleaning of a wool rug costs an average of €15 to €25 per square metre. The price depends on the size, condition of the rug and the cleaning method chosen. For stubborn stains or extra treatments, the rate may be higher. It's best to ask a carpet cleaning specialist for a quote in advance.

Cleaning a wool rug with vinegar

Vinegar is a natural cleaning agent without harsh chemicals. It has a neutralising effect and can, for example, remove pet odours. Follow these steps to clean your wool rug with vinegar.

• Step 1: Start by vacuuming to remove loose dirt
• Step 2: Use white vinegar. Mix one part white vinegar with two parts lukewarm water in a bucket.
• Step 3: Use a clean cloth or sponge to pre-treat the stain. Make sure you wring out the cloth well so it's not too wet. Remember: gently blot the cloth on the stains and avoid rubbing. This can damage the fibres and push the stain deeper into them.
• Step 4: Make sure you remove the vinegar from the rug. If you don't, the vinegar can dry and become sticky. Use a clean cloth with lukewarm water and blot the stain.
• Step 5: Let the stain dry; you can speed up the drying process by blotting the stain dry with a clean, dry cloth. Ensure good ventilation in the room – you can, for example, open a window. Be careful with sunlight, as direct sun can fade the colours of the rug.

Cleaning a wool rug with baking soda

Baking soda (also called bicarbonate of soda) is also a good household remedy for cleaning your wool rug. It neutralises odours, absorbs moisture and can lighten stains. Follow these steps to clean your wool rug with baking soda.

• Step 1: Start by vacuuming to remove loose dirt
• Step 2: Sprinkle baking soda evenly over the entire wool rug
• Step 3: Let the baking soda work. Wait at least 30 minutes to an hour; for stubborn stains or odours, you can leave it overnight.
• Step 4: Vacuum the entire rug again. Do it thoroughly and slowly, so you're sure you've removed all traces of baking soda.

Washing a wool rug

You might not think it, but carpet cleaning mousse or shampoo is also good for the 'fibres' of your wool rug! The items you need to clean your wool rug are: cold water, rug cleaner and a sponge. Work carefully when cleaning your wool rug. Apply the rug cleaner and let it sit for a moment. Clean the stain with a sponge and then blot dry with cold water. As a final step, use a dry cloth to remove any residue and dry the wool rug.

Cleaning a high-pile wool rug

A high-pile wool rug needs a little extra care. Vacuum regularly with a smooth nozzle without a brush, so dirt doesn't settle between the high pile. For stains: gently blot with a damp cloth (never rub!) and let it dry thoroughly. Then brush lightly in the direction of the pile to keep the fibres fluffy. With a high-pile wool rug, you usually brush in the direction of the pile. This prevents the fibres from bending or becoming flattened.

Checklist for maintaining your wool rug

There are a few things that are really important to remember when you have a wool rug. The hard-wearing fibre that wool is made from can certainly take a knock, but with a few handy tips your wool rug will last even longer.

• Get an anti-slip underlay! As mentioned earlier, a wool rug can take a knock, but how nice would it be to keep it looking perfect. It also prevents it from shifting.
• Turn the rug over every six months. This prevents permanent indentations. Think of a pet that settles in one spot or foot traffic patterns.
• Vacuum your rug regularly, ideally several times a month. It's best to do this with a clean vacuum head and an attachment with the brush hairs pulled in. This way you won't pull any loose fibres loose. Also quite important: handling your vacuum too roughly can sometimes cause the sheen and texture of the wool to be lost. Be gentle!
• Mist your wool rug occasionally with a little cold water to maintain moisture levels. This prevents your wool rug from shedding.

Apply these tips regularly to keep your wool rug beautiful and resilient for as long as possible! With proper care, your wool rug will remain lovely for years to come. Curious about other materials and textures? Check out the different rugs in our collection.

Frequently asked questions about cleaning wool rugs

How often should I clean my wool rug?

We recommend vacuuming once a week and treating any stains immediately. A thorough clean should take place at least once a year, or more often depending on how much the rug is used.

Which cleaning products are suitable for my wool rug?

Use mild, wool-specific cleaning products that are pH-neutral. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach, as these can damage wool fibres.

How can I get my wool rug to dry properly?

After cleaning, we recommend letting the rug air-dry flat. Blot the stain well and don't use too much water when cleaning. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources that could cause the wool to shrink or fade. Make sure the rug is completely dry to prevent mould growth.

Can I clean my wool rug with a steam cleaner?

No, we advise against using a steam cleaner when cleaning your wool rug. The heat from a steam cleaner can damage the wool rug. In addition, a wool rug absorbs a lot of moisture; a steam cleaner can make your wool rug too wet. Do you have a coloured wool rug? Then the colours can also fade due to the heat from the steam cleaner.