Carpet and Rug Care Tips

The appropriate way to care for a carpet depends on its fibre, construction, dyes and backing. Start with the manufacturer's instructions. A care method suitable for one rug may not suit another, and not every rug is suitable for wet washing or an automatic machine.

Use the Care Label as Your Starting Point

Keep any care information supplied with the rug and share it with your cleaner. If the material or permitted cleaning method is uncertain, seek advice before applying a treatment. Tell the cleaner about earlier treatments and any existing damage so they can assess the rug with that history in mind.

Vacuum According to Use and Construction

Regular vacuuming helps remove dry soil. Choose the frequency and vacuum settings to suit the manufacturer's guidance, the rug construction and the amount of traffic. WoolSafe recommends regular vacuuming rather than a universal rule against daily care. Take particular care around fringes and follow the rug maker's instructions on brush or beater-bar use.

Blot Spills Rather Than Scrubbing

For a fresh liquid spill, use a clean, white absorbent cloth to blot up the liquid without rubbing it into the pile. Before applying a cleaning product, check that it is intended for the material and follow its testing and use instructions. Avoid experimenting with several products on an unknown stain. For delicate materials or persistent marks, contact a trained cleaner.

Discuss Washing and Drying Together

When arranging professional cleaning, ask how the company chooses the washing method and checks the rug before returning it. Water extraction and final drying are distinct stages. Follow the cleaner's and manufacturer's advice about drying and returning the rug to use; do not treat a damp rug as ready for storage or packing.

Keep a Record of Care Advice

Keep the cleaner's recommendations with your rug information so future cleaning can take earlier treatment into account. For further care guidance, see WoolSafe's fine-fibre care advice and the Carpet and Rug Institute's cleaning guidance. If you are choosing a service, read our questions to ask a carpet cleaning company.