Quick answer: Vacuum gently (no beater bar on wool), rotate every few months, and use a rug pad. For spills, blot — never rub — from the outside in with a dry cloth, then a little cool water and mild soap. Keep jute and hemp dry, and have fine rugs professionally cleaned every 1–2 years.
A well-made natural-fibre rug can outlive the room it starts in — with a little care. The good news: natural fibres are forgiving, and looking after them is simpler than most people think.
Everyday care
- Vacuum regularly but gently — use suction only or turn off the beater bar for wool and looped weaves.
- Rotate the rug every few months so it wears and fades evenly, especially in sunlit rooms.
- Use a rug pad — it stops slipping, reduces wear, adds cushioning and lets air circulate.
Dealing with spills
- Blot, don't rub — press with a clean, dry cloth to lift the liquid.
- Work from the outside in to stop the stain spreading.
- For stubborn spots, use a little cool water and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals and hot water on wool.
- Let it dry fully and naturally.
Fibre-specific tips
- Wool: naturally stain-resistant; light shedding at first is normal. Professional clean every 1–2 years.
- Jute & hemp: keep dry — blot spills immediately, never soak. Not for damp rooms.
- Cotton: often the easiest; many flatweaves are washable — check the label.
What's normal
A little shedding from a new wool rug is normal and stops with time. Gentle fading in direct sun is also natural — rotating keeps it even. These are the character of a living, natural material, not defects.
Frequently asked questions
How do you get a stain out of a wool rug?
Blot (don't rub) immediately with a dry cloth from the outside in, then use a little cool water and mild soap. Avoid hot water and harsh chemicals.
Can you vacuum a natural-fibre rug?
Yes, but gently — use suction only or switch off the beater bar on wool and looped weaves to avoid pulling fibres.
Is rug shedding normal?
Yes. New wool rugs shed lightly at first; it settles with regular gentle vacuuming and is completely normal.
Do natural-fibre rugs need a rug pad?
Yes — a pad prevents slipping, cushions the rug, reduces wear, and lets air flow underneath, extending its life.