How to Clean a Wool Throw Rug

Wool throw rugs add beauty and warmth to a room. They are more costly than a cotton or synthetic throw rug, but they are more durable when cared for correctly. Most cotton or synthetic fabric throw rugs can be washed in your washing machine and then put in the dryer to dry. Wool throw rugs are cared for just as you would care for wall-to-wall carpeting.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Vacuum cleaner
• Carpet and rug cleaner (such as Woolite's Heavy Traffic cleaner)
• Small scrub brush

How to Clean a Wool Throw Rug

1. Read the manufacturer's label regarding cleaning instructions before you begin. You want to make sure you will not damage the rug and that the cleaning method you use will give you satisfactory results.

2. Vacuum the rug thoroughly to remove any loose dirt before you begin the cleaning process. Throw rugs are usually placed in high traffic areas and need to be vacuumed regularly. Regular vacuuming will extend the life of your rug.

3. Read the directions on the carpet and rug cleaner that you purchased. Woolite's Heavy Traffic Cleaner is a well-known brand and provides results.

4. Test spray a small area of your rug to make sure the product you have chosen will not damage the rug in any way. Look for bleeding or change in color. If bleeding or change in color occurs, you will want to stop and have the rug professionally cleaned.

5. Spray the entire rug with the carpet and rug cleaner. Then, scrub lightly with your scrub brush. Any stains may require additional cleaner and a little more scrubbing. Let the rug dry. Be sure to wipe off or clean up any overspray of the carpet cleaner.

6. Vacuum the rug after it has dried. Check to make sure any stains have been removed. If you still see any staining, you will want to spot clean those stains again, using the same procedure.

Tips & Warnings

• As with any rug or carpeting the trick is to not let them get too dirty. Be sure to clean up any spills immediately. Regular vacuuming and cleaning will keep your rugs and carpets looking like new.
• It is important to read the manufacturer's directions before using any cleaning product on your rug. It is just as important to read the directions on the cleaning product you are going to use as they will also provide any warnings or types of rugs or carpets that their product should not be used on.