Handwoven wool rugs are exquisite pieces that add warmth and sophistication to indoor spaces. Crafted with skill from natural wool fibers, these rugs maintain their durability over the years while offering an aesthetic appeal. However, caring for handmade wool rugs requires a delicate approach.
Steps for General Cleaning:
Regular cleaning of handwoven wool rugs is essential to prevent the accumulation of dirt and dust. By following these steps, you can maintain the health and vibrancy of your rug:
1. Gently Sweep the Front Surface: Using a soft-bristled broom or brush, gently sweep the front surface of the rug without applying pressure to avoid damaging the fibers.
2. Flip the Rug Over: Turn the rug over to expose the underside. This allows you to remove any dust and dirt that may have settled at the bottom.
3. Tap the Back of the Rug: Using a chair or similar elevation, tap the back of the rug to dislodge any trapped dust and dirt.
4. Shake the Rug: Take the rug outside and shake it vigorously to remove surface dust and debris. Ensure you do this in an open area to prevent the dust from spreading indoors.
5. Sun-Dry the Rug: Hang the rug in the sun with the backside facing outward to prevent color fading and bacterial growth. Sunlight also helps to naturally disinfect and refresh the fibers.
6. Vacuum the Backside: Once you bring the rug indoors, vacuum the backside using a low suction setting to remove any remaining dust particles.
7. Gentle Vacuuming of the Front Surface: When vacuuming the front surface, avoid using high suction power to prevent knot displacement and damage to the fibers.
If you own a handmade wool rug repeating this process once in a year should be enough to keep your hand-knotted wool rug fresh.
Daily Cleaning and Maintenance:
Daily cleaning and maintenance are essential for prolonging the lifespan of your rug. Regularly sweeping the rug prevents the accumulation of dirt and dust, preserving its freshness. If you have pets, increasing the frequency of sweeping can help maintain cleanliness. Avoid wetting your handwoven wool rug as much as possible unless there is a stain and keep it away from humid environments.
Stain Removal:
Prompt action is crucial when dealing with spills on your rug. Use a highly absorbent cloth to blot the liquid immediately. Then, prepare a mixture of baking soda and white vinegar to gently clean the stain. Adjust the mixture according to the intensity of the stain, clean the area, and rinse with clean water. Ensure the rug dries quickly to prevent bacterial and mold growth. If something solid spills on your rug, after removing the substance with a spoon or fork, you can clean it by using the vinegar and baking soda mixture and following the steps above.
Odor Removal:
To eliminate any odors from your rug, gently clean it with a solution of vinegar or mild soap, followed by a thorough rinse with clean water. Allow the rug to dry in a well-ventilated area to maintain freshness.
Handwoven wool rugs are essential decorative elements that add natural beauty and elegance to living spaces. With proper cleaning and maintenance, these unique pieces will retain their beauty and durability for years to come.
