A hand-knotted wool rug is built to outlast trends — cared for properly, it will outlast most of the furniture around it. The routine is simpler than you'd think.
How do I care for a hand-knotted wool rug day to day?
Vacuum weekly with the beater bar switched off — suction only, in the direction of the pile. A spinning brush abrades wool fibers and can catch the fringe. Rotate the rug 180 degrees twice a year so foot traffic and sunlight wear it evenly.
What should I do when something spills?
Blot immediately with a clean, dry white cloth — never rub, which grinds the spill deeper into the pile. For most spills, follow with cool water and a drop of mild soap, working from the edges of the spot inward, then blot dry. Speed matters more than technique.
Why is wool so forgiving?
Wool fibers carry a natural coating of lanolin, a wax that repels liquid and gives you a window to act before anything soaks in. It's one reason hand-knotted wool rugs survive decades of dinner parties, pets, and children — and synthetics don't.
How often should a rug be professionally cleaned?
Every two to four years, by a cleaner who specializes in hand-knotted rugs — sooner if the rug lives in a busy room. Dust settles to the base of the knots where a vacuum can't reach; a proper wash restores both color and softness.
Do I need a rug pad?
Yes. A quality pad keeps the rug from slipping, cushions the knots against the hard floor beneath, and meaningfully extends the rug's life. It's the least glamorous purchase you'll make for it, and one of the most important.
How do I prevent sun fading?
Rotation is your best defense — turn the rug twice a year so no one edge takes all the light. Natural dyes mellow beautifully over time, but constant direct sun on one corner will fade it unevenly. Sheer curtains help in bright rooms.
How should I store a rug?
Roll it — never fold. Folding creases the foundation and can crack the knots along the line. Roll with the pile facing inward, wrap in breathable cotton (not plastic), and store off the floor in a dry space.
What should I never do to a wool rug?
- No steam cleaners — heat and saturation damage wool and can bleed natural dyes.
- No harsh chemicals — bleach, ammonia, and oxygenated cleaners strip lanolin and color.
- No beater bars — suction only.
- No folding — always roll for moving or storage.
Care at a glance
| Task | How often |
|---|---|
| Vacuum (no beater bar) | Weekly |
| Rotate 180 degrees | Twice a year |
| Professional hand-wash | Every 2–4 years |
| Spills | Blot immediately — never rub |
Curious why these rugs reward the effort? See how they're made in Behind the Loom, or start with our guide on how to buy a handmade rug.