Seagrass rug and runner care guide

🌿 Seagrass Rugs & Runners Cleaning & Maintenance Guide

Coastal texture, enduring beauty — how to care for your natural seagrass rugs


Introduction

Seagrass rugs and runners bring a calm, organic luxury into modern interiors. Harvested from marine grass grown in coastal wetlands, seagrass is naturally resistant to stains, static, and dirt, making it an ideal natural-fibre flooring choice for South African homes.

At Woven Bliss, we celebrate seagrass for its durability, eco-friendliness, and elegant texture. This guide outlines how to clean, maintain, and protect your rug — ensuring it retains its luster and charm for years to come.


1. Understanding Seagrass Rugs

Seagrass is a natural, non-porous fibre with a smooth waxy coating that makes it inherently stain-resistant and low-maintenance.
However, like all natural fibres, it reacts to humidity and moisture, so proper care keeps it looking its best.

Key Properties:

  • 🌿 Sustainable: harvested from fast-growing coastal grasses.

  • 💧 Naturally water-resistant: resists spills better than jute or sisal.

  • ☀️ UV-sensitive: can fade if placed in direct sunlight for long periods.

  • 🌀 Textured & durable: ideal for busy areas like hallways or dining rooms.


2. Regular Maintenance

Vacuuming

  • Vacuum once or twice weekly using a suction-only setting (no beater brush).

  • Follow the weave direction to lift dirt effectively without fraying the fibres.

  • Vacuum the underside occasionally to remove grit that can wear against the backing.

Rotation

Rotate your rug every 4–6 months to ensure even exposure to sunlight and foot traffic.

Underlay

Use a breathable non-slip underlay to prevent movement and enhance comfort, while allowing air circulation beneath the rug.


3. Spot Cleaning

Step 1: Act Quickly

Because seagrass is non-porous, spills often sit on the surface — blot immediately with a clean, white cloth or paper towel.

Step 2: Gentle Cleaning

Mix a few drops of mild detergent in cold water. Dampen a cloth slightly (do not soak) and dab the spill area gently.

Step 3: Dry Thoroughly

Press with a dry towel to absorb excess moisture, then allow to air dry flat in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.

⚠️ Avoid: hot water, steam cleaning, or soaking — these can cause warping and colour variation.


4. Deep Cleaning & Refreshing

For seasonal maintenance:

  1. Vacuum thoroughly to remove dirt and sand.

  2. Lightly mist the surface with clean water (fine spray) to rebalance natural humidity.

  3. Allow to air dry evenly — this prevents the weave from tightening unevenly.

  4. For heavy soiling, contact a professional natural-fibre rug cleaner.


5. Seasonal Care

SeasonCare Tip
SummerRotate regularly and draw curtains during peak sunlight hours.
Winter / Rainy SeasonKeep the rug dry — use dehumidifiers if humidity is high.
Year-roundAvoid direct outdoor exposure or placement on damp surfaces.

6. Stain-Specific Tips

Stain TypeTreatment
Food / DrinkBlot immediately, then clean with mild detergent and cold water.
Mud / DirtLet dry completely, brush away debris, then vacuum.
Oil / GreaseSprinkle baking soda, leave for 30 minutes, vacuum gently.
Pet AccidentsBlot, wipe with mild vinegar-water mix (1:3 ratio), then air dry.

7. Long-Term Care & Storage

  • Roll (never fold) with the weave facing outward.

  • Store in a cool, dry area, wrapped in breathable cotton or muslin.

  • Keep away from plastic covers that trap moisture.

  • Use natural moth repellents such as cedar or lavender sachets.


8. Common Issues & Fixes

IssueCauseSolution
Curling edgesHumidity changesWeigh down edges until fibres relax naturally.
FadingSun exposureRotate regularly or use UV-filter window film.
Minor ripplingHumidity imbalanceMist lightly with water, dry flat.
Loose fibresNormal wearTrim with scissors — avoid pulling.

9. Recommended Products


10. Conclusion

Seagrass rugs combine natural elegance with coastal durability. With proper care and mindful handling, your Woven Bliss rug will retain its tactile character and lustre for many years — a reflection of nature’s simplicity and endurance.


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Seagrass Rug & Runner Care — FAQ

Can I clean a seagrass rug with water?

Use very little water when cleaning — seagrass is naturally water-resistant but can warp if soaked. Blot gently and dry in a well-ventilated space.

How do I remove stains from a seagrass rug?

Blot spills immediately. Use mild detergent and cold water sparingly, then blot dry. Avoid hot water or steam cleaning.

Can seagrass rugs be vacuumed regularly?

Yes. Vacuum weekly using suction-only mode. Avoid brush rollers to preserve the weave and prevent fraying.