Cleaning Your Rug

What Should I Do If I Spill Something on My Rug?

The most important thing is to act quickly and don't scrub.

Step 1 — Remove Solids

Carefully lift away any solid material using a spoon or blunt edge.

Avoid pressing the material further into the rug.

Step 2 — Blot the Spill

Using a clean, dry, white absorbent cloth or white paper towel, gently blot as much liquid as possible.

Do not aggressively rub or scrub the stain.

Rubbing can spread the spill, disturb the pile and potentially damage the fibres.

Step 3 — Work From the Outside In

For a larger spill, work gently from the outside towards the centre to help prevent it from spreading.

Step 4 — Check What Your Rug Is Made From

Before applying water, detergent, carpet cleaner or stain remover, identify your rug's fibre and check its care instructions.

A cleaning method that may be suitable for a polypropylene rug could be unsuitable for wool, jute, viscose or other delicate fibres.

Can I Use Carpet Stain Remover on My Rug?

Not automatically.

Don't assume a supermarket carpet cleaner, stain remover or general household cleaning product is suitable for every rug.

Avoid bleach and harsh chemicals.

If the manufacturer's instructions permit the use of a cleaning product, test it first in a small, inconspicuous area.

For valuable rugs, difficult stains or delicate fibres, we recommend seeking advice from an experienced professional rug cleaner.

How to Care for a Wool Rug

Wool rugs are popular in Australian homes for their natural warmth, softness, resilience and durability.

To care for a wool rug:

  • Vacuum regularly using gentle suction

  • Avoid aggressive rotating brushes and powerheads

  • Blot spills promptly

  • Never aggressively scrub stains

  • Avoid excessive moisture

  • Rotate regularly

  • Protect from prolonged direct sunlight

  • Arrange professional cleaning when required

Is Wool Rug Shedding Normal?

Some initial shedding is normal with many new wool rugs.

Loose fibres remaining in the pile following manufacture can gradually work their way to the surface. Regular, gentle vacuuming should help reduce this over time.

Excessive or persistent shedding may warrant further investigation, particularly if the construction of the rug appears to be affected.

How to Care for Viscose & Art Silk Rugs

Viscose and art silk rugs are known for their soft feel and subtle lustre, but these fibres generally require more careful maintenance.

Moisture can affect their appearance, texture and pile.

For viscose and art silk rugs:

  • Vacuum gently with an appropriate flat suction head

  • Avoid rotating brushes and aggressive powerheads

  • Blot accidental spills immediately

  • Never aggressively rub or scrub the pile

  • Avoid excessive moisture

  • Don't experiment with household stain removers

  • Seek specialist rug-cleaning advice when necessary

We recommend professional advice before attempting significant spot cleaning on a viscose or art silk rug.

How to Care for Jute & Natural Fibre Rugs

Jute and other plant-fibre rugs bring wonderful natural texture to a room but generally require particular care around moisture.

For jute rug care:

  • Vacuum regularly with gentle suction

  • Keep the rug as dry as possible

  • Blot spills promptly

  • Avoid saturating the fibres

  • Don't aggressively scrub stains

  • Avoid steam cleaning unless specifically permitted by the manufacturer

  • Ensure both the rug and floor underneath are completely dry following accidental moisture

Natural variations in colour, weave and texture are characteristic of many jute and plant-fibre rugs.

How to Care for Synthetic Rugs

Synthetic rug fibres can include polypropylene, polyester, PET and nylon.

These fibres are popular for their durability and practical everyday performance.

To care for a synthetic rug:

  • Vacuum regularly

  • Attend to spills promptly

  • Blot rather than scrub

  • Rotate periodically

  • Follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions

Importantly, don't assume every synthetic rug is washable or suitable for steam cleaning. The rug's backing, dyes and construction can be just as important as its fibre content.

How to Care for a Washable Rug

If your rug is specifically labelled washable, follow its individual washing instructions carefully.

Before washing, check:

  • Whether it is machine or hand washable

  • Maximum water temperature

  • Required washing-machine capacity

  • Recommended detergent

  • Spin-cycle instructions

  • Drying instructions

  • Whether tumble drying is permitted

Never assume a rug can be machine washed simply because it is made from synthetic fibres.