Rug Care Guide – How to Clean, Protect & Maintain Your Rugs

(By Woven Bliss South Africa)

At Woven Bliss South Africa, we believe every rug tells a story — of texture, craftsmanship, and the warmth it brings to a home. Whether it’s a handwoven wool rug, a flatweave hallway runner, or a durable outdoor rug, proper care will preserve its beauty and extend its life for generations.

This guide outlines how to clean rugs, remove stains, protect against wear, and maintain handmade and outdoor rugs in the South African climate.

1. Preparing Your Space – The Foundation of Rug Longevity

1.1 Use a Premium Rug Underlay
A rug underlay or pad prevents slipping, cushions footsteps, and absorbs daily friction. For stair runners, our 3 mm and 5 mm crumbed rubber underlays provide optimal grip and comfort.

1.2 Allow for Acclimatisation
Once unrolled, give your rug 24–48 hours to settle naturally. Minor creases will relax as the fibres adjust to your space.

1.3 Placement Matters
Avoid damp areas or direct sunlight for long hours. Outdoor rugs should be placed on dry, even surfaces with adequate drainage — especially on patios, verandas, or pool decks.

2. Weekly Care – Routine Cleaning for Every Rug

2.1 Vacuum
Vacuum at least once per week using a suction-only setting. Avoid rotating brushes or beater bars, which can pull delicate fibres.

2.2 Rotate Every 6 Months
Turn your rug 180° every 6–12 months to ensure even wear and colour consistency, especially in sun-exposed areas.

2.3 Minimise Dirt at Entry Points
Place coir or synthetic doormats at entrances to reduce the amount of grit tracked onto rugs — ideal for homes in coastal or semi-rural regions.

3. How to Remove Spills & Stains

3.1 Act Immediately
Blot spills with a clean, dry cloth — never rub. Rubbing pushes stains deeper into the pile.

3.2 Work from Outside → In
When treating stains, start from the edge of the mark and move inward to avoid spreading.

3.3 Use Gentle Detergents
Use a pH-neutral or wool-safe cleaner diluted in cold water. Always patch-test before applying.

3.4 Dry Completely
Ensure both rug and floor are completely dry before returning furniture or foot traffic.

4. Deep Cleaning & Professional Rug Care

Schedule professional rug cleaning every 2–5 years, especially for hand-knotted, wool, or mohair rugs.
Avoid steam cleaning on natural-fibre rugs like sisal or jute.
For outdoor rugs made of up-cycled polypropylene, use a mild soap solution and rinse with a garden hose — let them dry fully in shaded air.

5. Fibre-Specific Care

Rug Type / Material	Care Tips	Best Use Areas
Wool & Mohair Rugs	Naturally soil-resistant; vacuum regularly; blot spills immediately.	Living rooms, bedrooms, lounges.
Sisal, Jute & Hemp Rugs	Avoid water; use dry cleaning powder; keep out of humidity.	Hallways, stairs, studies.
Flatweave Rugs & Runners	Rotate often; ideal for high-traffic areas; can be reversed.	Staircases, corridors, kitchens.
Outdoor Rugs (Polypropylene)	Rinse occasionally; air-dry; UV-resistant.	Patios, decks, pool areas.
Viscose or Silk Rugs	Handle gently; avoid moisture; professional cleaning only.	Low-traffic interiors.

6. Protecting Against Sunlight, Furniture & Pets

Sunlight: Rotate rugs or use blinds to prevent fading.
Furniture: Add felt pads under heavy legs to avoid compression marks.
Pets: Brush pets often and vacuum rugs more frequently to prevent fur build-up.

7. Storage & Seasonal Care

When storing rugs:

Clean and fully dry first.
Roll (do not fold) with the pile facing inward.
Wrap in breathable cotton or muslin cloth.
Store in a cool, dry area off the ground.

Avoid sealing in plastic to prevent moisture and mildew.

8. Quick Reference Summary

Vacuum weekly – removes abrasive grit.
Blot spills immediately – prevents staining.
Rotate rugs – ensures even fading and wear.
Use a rug pad – adds comfort and extends lifespan.
Professional clean every few years – refreshes fibres and colour.

Need Expert Advice?

Woven Bliss South Africa offers care guidance for all rugs, including:

Custom stair runners with decorative brass rods and brackets.
Outdoor rugs woven from up-cycled polypropylene.
Handwoven wool and mohair rugs from Shuttleworth Weaving.

Contact us for professional recommendations, bespoke orders, or to source the right rug underlay for your home.

Shop All Rugs →
Outdoor Rugs →
Stair Runners →

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