How Can I Restore Luster to Wool Rugs?

With the proper cleaning method, you can restore the luster of your wool rug.

Wool rugs are known for their durability and natural beauty. In general, wool rugs are also easy to care for and maintain; however, it is sometimes necessary to put in extra cleaning efforts to restore the natural luster of the wool fibers. The simplest and most effective way to do this yourself is the dry-extraction cleaning method. This method uses an environmentally friendly compound of detergent and dry solvent to remove stubborn soil that can dull the appearance of your rug.

Things You'll Need

• Vacuum
• Powder carpet preconditioner for wool
• Dry-extraction compound
• Carpet brush or mechanical carpet agitator

Instructions

1. Vacuum your wool rug thoroughly to remove as much dirt as possible. This removal of excess soil will simplify the rest of the cleaning process.

2. Spread powder carpet preconditioner onto your rug by hand. Follow the product's instructions to determine how much powder you should use. Make sure that the preconditioner's label specifically indicates that the product is safe for wool. A preconditioner with the wrong pH can cause yellowing to your rug.

3. Scrub the preconditioner gently into the rug by hand with a carpet brush or a mechanical carpet agitator. Use both circular and linear motions to make sure that you thoroughly work the preconditioner into the wool fibers. The preconditioner will loosen stubborn grime from your rug. Let the preconditioner sit for the time indicated on the product's label, then vacuum your rug again.

4. Spread the dry-extraction compound on your rug by hand, using the amount stated in the product's instructions. Work the compound into the rug with a brush or agitator in the same manner you worked the preconditioner into the wool fibers. Allow the dry-extraction compound to sit on your rug for the time indicated on the label, usually one to two hours. Vacuum your rug one last time to reveal the renewed luster of your wool rug.

Tips & Warnings

• Clean your wool rug by this method annually or whenever your rug's appearance dulls.

• If the dry-extraction method does not yield the result you hoped for, hire a professional to steam clean your wool rug.

References

• Unique Carpets Ltd: Wool Carpet Maintenance and Cleaning
• The Carpet Buyers Handbook: Dry Extraction Carpet Cleaning