There’s something about a beautiful rug underfoot that instantly makes a house feel more like home. It pulls a room together, softens the space, adds colour and makes everything feel just that bit more inviting.
But let’s be honest, rugs don’t stay perfect forever. Between muddy shoes, clumsy spills, and the occasional pet-related mishap, life tends to leave its mark.
The good news? You don’t need to panic or call in the professionals straight away. With the right care (and a little know-how), you can keep your rug looking its best from season to season. Below, we’ll walk you through how to clean a rug at home, from quick weekly habits to the full deep-clean treatment. Plus, we’ll share how to care for different materials like wool, jute, sheepskin, and fluffy shag rugs.
In this guide, we'll cover:
- Everyday rug cleaning & maintenance
- How to wash a rug by hand at home
- How to clean different types of rugs
- Removing common rug stains
- The final steps
- FAQs
Everyday rug cleaning & maintenance
Before we get into the serious stuff, it’s worth saying that the best way to keep your rug clean is to stay on top of it. Regular maintenance means less dirt build-up, fewer stains, and way less effort in the long run.
Here’s how to keep things ticking over:
Vacuum regularly
Most rugs benefit from a quick vacuum once or twice a week. It picks up everyday dust and pet hair before it gets ground in. Just be careful around fringes or tassels and avoid vacuuming over them directly, as they can catch or fray.
Rotate your rug
Is your rug in a busy hallway or a sunny spot by the window? Rotate it every few months. This helps it wear evenly and prevents one side from fading faster than the other.
Address spills immediately
The golden rule of stain removal is to act fast and blot, don't rub! Rubbing just spreads the stain and pushes it deeper into the fibres. Use a clean, dry cloth to soak up as much liquid as you can, then deal with the rest once the panic’s over.
How to wash a rug by hand at home
If your rug’s looking a little dull or feeling grimy, it might be time for a deeper clean. Cleaning a rug by hand is a great way to refresh its appearance and remove built-up dirt. Here’s what to do:
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Test your cleaning solution
Always patch-test first to ensure it won't damage your rug. Before you use any cleaning solution, test it on a small area of the rug (like a hidden corner underneath). Apply a small amount of your cleaning solution and blot it with a white cloth.
If any colour comes off onto the cloth, stop immediately and try a different method or solution.
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Vacuum thoroughly
Give the rug a good vacuum on both sides to remove any loose dirt and debris before adding moisture.
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Mix a gentle cleaning solution
A small amount of mild, pH-neutral detergent mixed with warm water will do nicely.
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Gently scrub the rug
Use a soft-bristled brush or sponge, working in sections and following the direction of the fibres.
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Rinse and dry
Rinse the rug thoroughly with clean water. You can do this by using a hose outside or by wiping it down with a clean, damp cloth. The most crucial step is drying - lay the rug flat in a well-ventilated area, ideally somewhere with a bit of breeze and no direct sun to prevent fading.
Flip it over once the top's dry to ensure the underside dries completely. Don't be tempted to bring it back in too soon. Damp rugs and wooden floors are not friends.
How to clean different types of rugs
Different materials require different care, so what works for one could damage another. Figure out what material your rug is made of before you start cleaning. Here’s a breakdown:
How to clean a wool rug
Wool is naturally durable and tends to shrug off stains quite well. Still, it doesn’t love harsh chemicals or very hot water. If you have a rug like our Theo Handwoven Wool Rug or Mya Wool Rug, these instructions are for you.
For everyday spills, blot immediately with a clean cloth. If you need more firepower, mix a wool-safe detergent with cool water. Gently dab the area, and avoid overwetting.
If your wool rug needs a full clean, follow the hand-wash method above, but be extra gentle, and skip the hot water. Afterwards, use a vacuum on the lowest setting or a soft brush to bring the pile back to life.
How to clean a sheepskin rug
Sheepskin looks and feels like pure luxury, but it needs a bit of special treatment.
Firstly, shake your sheepskin rug regularly to loosen dirt and dust. Use a wide-toothed comb or a special sheepskin brush to detangle the wool and fluff things up.
For small spills, blot with a dry cloth gently. For bigger spots, mix lukewarm water with a little wool detergent and dab the area carefully. Avoid getting the backing too wet.
Can you wash a sheepskin rug?
Yes, but carefully! Small sheepskin rugs can often be hand-washed in cool water with a wool wash. Larger rugs are best left to the pros.
Always air dry your sheepskin rug flat and away from direct heat or sunlight.
How to clean a fluffy or shag rug
Fluffy and shaggy rugs like our Nia rug or Dotty rug add stunning texture, but can be a pain to clean due to their long fibres.
Shake it outside to dislodge loose debris, or gently beat the back with a broom handle. Vacuum using a hose attachment, and go in different directions to get into every nook.
For spot cleaning, use a mild detergent and a damp cloth, but be careful not to soak the base - long fibres can hold water, which takes a long time to dry.
How to clean a jute rug
Jute rugs, like our checkered option, are beautiful and natural, but they are very sensitive to moisture. The key to cleaning a jute rug is to keep it as dry as possible.
Vacuum regularly with a brush attachment to lift dust from between the fibres. For spills, blot quickly and use a tiny bit of water mixed with white vinegar on a clean cloth. Dab the stain lightly, then use a dry cloth to absorb any moisture.
Don’t soak a jute rug as it’ll shrink, stain, or go patchy. If a deep clean is necessary, it's best to consult a professional who specialises in natural fibre rugs.
Removing common rug stains
Even with the best care, accidents happen. Here’s a quick guide to tackling some common culprits.
How to remove coffee and tea stains from a rug
Blot the area immediately with a clean cloth. Then, mix 1 part white vinegar with 1 part water and gently blot the stain until it's gone.
How to remove mud and dirt from a rug
Let the mud dry completely, then scrape or brush off as much as you can. You can create a mixture of 2 tablespoons of salt in half a cup of white vinegar, blot the area, and then vacuum once dry.
How to remove pet stains from a rug
For pet accidents, or urine in general, blot as much as possible. Then, use a mixture of white vinegar, baking soda, and water to lift the stain and neutralise the odour.
Does bicarbonate of soda remove stains?
Yes, bicarbonate of soda (also known as baking soda) can help lift certain stains from rugs, especially fresh spills and odours. It works by absorbing moisture and neutralising smells, making it a gentle, affordable option for quick clean-ups.
For light marks, sprinkle a generous layer directly onto the stain, leave it for at least 15–20 minutes (or overnight for stubborn patches), then vacuum thoroughly. For tougher stains, you can mix it with a little water to form a paste. Dab it on, let it sit, then blot gently.
While it’s great for everyday refreshes, bicarbonate of soda won’t remove every type of stain - deep-set dyes, oils, or wine spills may need a specialist rug cleaner. Always patch-test first to make sure your rug’s colour and fibres aren’t affected.
The final steps
Once your rug is clean and bone-dry, it’s ready to reclaim its place in your home. Regular care, the right cleaning methods, and a little attention to detail go a long way in keeping your favourite rugs looking their best.
If you’re struggling to clean your rug and it seems beyond saving, it might be time to invest in a new one. Whether you’re after something bold and patterned or calm and minimal, our rug collection has something to suit every space.
FAQs
Can you wash a rug in a washing machine?
It depends on the rug! For small, thin, and synthetic rugs, a washing machine may be an option, but always check the care label first.
For larger, heavier, or natural fibre rugs (like wool or jute), washing in a machine is not recommended, as it can cause damage, shrinking, and fading.
How do you dry clean a rug at home?
"Dry cleaning" a rug at home typically involves using a dry powder carpet cleaner. You sprinkle the powder over the rug, let it sit for a specified time, and then vacuum it up. This is a great option for rugs that can't get wet, like jute.
What is the best way to clean a rug at home without a machine?
The best method is to use the hand-washing steps we outlined above. A combination of regular vacuuming, spot cleaning, and an occasional hand wash with a mild detergent and water is highly effective for most rugs.
How do you clean a white rug?
White rugs are a little less forgiving. The key is to tackle spills as soon as they happen to avoid stains setting in. A gentle mix of mild soap and water usually does the trick, or try a cleaner made specifically for light fabrics. Just remember to test any solution on a hidden patch first.
For tougher marks, a little hydrogen peroxide mixed with water can help, but go carefully, as it can lighten the fibres if you’re not careful.
How do I get a fluffy rug soft again after washing?
Once a fluffy or shaggy rug is completely dry, you can use a wide-toothed comb, a pet brush, or even your fingers to gently separate and fluff the fibres. This helps restore its original texture and softness.
