How do I get my rug fluffy again?

Is your rug no longer as soft as it used to be and does it look a bit flatter or has your rug become flattened? This happens more often than you might think and fortunately there's usually something you can do about it. With the right care, you can make your rug fluffy again and get your high-pile rug soft again.

In this article you'll read:

• how to make your rug fluffy again,
• what you can do if your rug has become flattened,
• and how to prevent it from happening again.

Make your rug fluffy again by vacuuming

Vacuuming is the foundation if you want to make your rug fluffy again. Dust and dirt can accumulate and flatten the fibres, making the rug look less fluffy. Once you've removed all the dirt, go over the rug once more with the vacuum cleaner, in the opposite direction of the yarn. The suction power brings the yarn up, as it were, creating the desired fluffy effect. Do use a nozzle that's suitable for rugs to prevent damage.

How to lift flattened fibres again

Has your rug already become flattened? Then you can gently loosen the fibres. It may help to treat flattened surfaces with a rug rake or soft brush. Comb your rug carefully in the direction of the pile. This will help restore the fibres and keep them standing upright, making the rug look fuller. It's important to work gently so you don't pull the yarn loose.

Is your rug flattened in certain spots?

Are there clear indented marks visible, for example from furniture or regular traffic routes? Then you can treat these extra.

Warm, lightly humid air can help soften the fibres. Lay a thin cloth over the spot and use steam gently or place the rug temporarily in a warm, humid room (such as the bathroom after showering). Then brush the pile upwards again. This is how you can make a high-pile rug that's become flattened soft and fluffy again.

Always test this method first on an inconspicuous spot

How to prevent traffic routes and flattened spots

A high-pile rug can show traffic routes with intensive use. Heavy furniture can also cause indentations.

You prevent this by:

• rotating your rug every few months,
• moving furniture from time to time,
• using an anti-slip underlay for extra resilience,
• and placing furniture leg protectors under heavy furniture.

This way the pressure is distributed better and your rug retains its fluffy appearance for longer.

Treat stains immediately

If stains appear on your rug, treat them immediately to prevent them from soaking into the fibres. Stains can 'weigh down' the fibres after all, which means they're more likely to lie flat instead of standing upright. Use the correct cleaning methods and products to protect your rug. Read everything about cleaning a high-pile rug here.

How to keep your rug fluffy and soft for longer

Finally, here's a summary of everything:

• Vacuum your rug regularly
• Comb the pile carefully from time to time
• Rotate your rug every few months
• Move heavy furniture occasionally
• Use an anti-slip underlay

With this care, your rug will stay beautiful, soft and comfortable for longer.

With a little attention, you can make your rug fluffy again, get your high-pile rug soft again and also visibly freshen a flattened rug without damaging the fibres.