Rug Care Guide

Handwoven Turkish rugs are built to last generations with the right care. Unlike machine-made rugs, each piece carries the character of natural fibres and hand-applied dyes — a little attention goes a long way toward preserving that quality for decades to come.

Regular Maintenance

• Vacuum weekly on a low setting, moving with the pile direction. Do not use a beater bar or rotating brush attachment, which can damage the fibres and loosen knots over time.
• Rotate every 6–12 months to distribute foot traffic and light exposure evenly. This prevents one area from wearing faster than the rest.
• Use a quality rug pad underneath to protect the rug, prevent slipping, and extend its lifespan by reducing friction against the floor.

Cleaning

• Blot spills immediately — never rub. Work from the outside of the spill inward to prevent spreading. Use a clean, dry cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible.
• Spot clean with cold water and a small amount of mild soap. Rinse thoroughly and allow to air dry flat, away from direct heat.
• Professional cleaning every 1–2 years is recommended for rugs in high-traffic areas. A specialist who works with hand-knotted rugs will know how to treat natural dyes and wool correctly.
• Never machine wash or steam clean a handwoven rug. Excessive water and heat can cause shrinkage, colour bleeding, and structural damage to the foundation.

Storage

• Roll for storage — never fold. Folding puts stress along crease lines and can permanently damage the pile and foundation over time.
• Wrap in breathable cotton, not plastic. Plastic traps moisture, which can lead to mildew and fibre damage.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, damp walls, and extreme temperature changes.

Shedding & Fading

• Some shedding is normal for the first few months with a new wool rug. This is loose surface fibre and will reduce with regular vacuuming — it does not indicate a quality problem.
• Protect from direct sunlight to slow fading. All natural dyes are susceptible to UV light over time, and prolonged direct exposure will affect colour richness.
• Natural dye variation is authentic character. Slight tonal differences between sections of a rug are a natural result of hand-dyeing and are part of what makes each piece unique — not a defect.

Need Advice?

If you have a question about caring for a specific rug or need guidance on a particular issue, contact us at woolmount@gmail.com — we are always happy to help.