Rug care
A handmade rug is built to last for years — and with a little everyday care it will look its best for all of them. Here is everything we tell our own families about keeping a rug beautiful.
Five simple habits
Do these and your rug will thank you for years.
Vacuum gently
Vacuum weekly with suction only — no beater bar — to lift dirt before it settles into the pile. Avoid the fringes, which can catch and pull.
Rotate regularly
Turn the rug 180° every few months so foot traffic and sunlight wear it evenly and no single path fades or flattens.
Use a rug pad
A quality pad stops slipping, cushions every step, protects the back of the rug and lets air circulate underneath.
Mind the sun
Direct, all-day sunlight will fade any natural dye over time. Sheer shades or the occasional rotation keep colours true.
Expect a little shed
Light shedding of loose fibre is normal for a new wool rug and settles within a few weeks of gentle vacuuming.
How to handle spills
Act quickly and gently — most spills lift cleanly if you reach them in time.
Blot, don't rub
Press a clean, dry white cloth onto the spill to soak it up. Rubbing pushes liquid deeper and frays the pile.
Work in from the edges
Blot from the outside toward the centre so the stain doesn't spread, lifting as much as you can before it sets.
Rinse with cool water
Use a little cool water and mild soap if needed — never hot water or harsh chemicals, which can set colour and stain.
Dry flat & airy
Let the spot air-dry flat, away from direct heat. Lift the damp area on a folded towel so air reaches the back.
Care by material
Each natural fibre likes slightly different handling.
Wool
Naturally stain-resistant and forgiving. Vacuum regularly, blot spills promptly, and have it professionally cleaned every one to two years.
Silk & Viscose
Delicate and lustrous. Keep to low-traffic rooms, blot very gently, use minimal water, and leave deep cleaning to a professional.
Jute & Flatweave
Keep these dry — blot spills immediately and avoid soaking. Spot-clean only, and shake or vacuum to keep grit out of the weave.
When to call a professional
Have hand-knotted and silk rugs professionally cleaned every one to two years, or sooner after a major spill. A specialist in handmade and oriental rugs will clean them safely without harming the dyes or foundation. When in doubt, email service@getmyrugs.com and we'll talk you through it.
Made to last
Cared for well, a handmade rug outlives trends.
Browse heirloom-quality wool, silk and jute rugs — hand-woven by our own master weavers and shipped free across America.
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