"Will this rug shed" - it's a question we are often asked, so our team have put together some useful information that will help to explain which rugs shed and why...as well as how to stop your rug from shedding.
Wool Rugs
Wool rugs will experience shedding, particularly during the first 3-6 months of its life as it sheds excess fibres from the weaving process. Shedding is a completely normal characteristic of wool rugs and does not indicate that a rug is poorly made or low quality. In fact, shedding is a natural process that will keep your new rug looking fresher for longer!
The amount of shedding your wool rug will experience typically depends on its construction. As a rule, flatweave rugs and hand-knotted rugs will shed less than high pile or shag rugs, while hand-tufted and felted wool rugs can continue to shed throughout their lifespan and generally require a little extra care.
Wool rugs are more prone to shedding when placed in high traffic areas. You can reduce some of impact regular foot traffic has on your rug by placing your rug on a rug pad.
Whilst they are a soft and luxurious choice for your home, it is important to be aware that shedding is part of the nature of this beautiful natural fibre.
Jute Rugs
Jute rugs are made from natural plant-based fibres and are a widely popular, eco-friendly rug option. As with all natural fibres, jute rugs will shed lightly, especially during the first few months when it will shed excess fibres from the weaving process.
You will typically notice small pieces of debris under your rug that can be easily cleaned. Vacuum your jute rug against the pile to remove any loose fibres and loosen debris.
Using an non-slip rug pad will help to reduce shedding by holding your rug in place and absorbing the impact of foot traffic.
This soft natural fibre is best suited to medium-low traffic areas.
Synthetic Rugs
Synthetic rugs such as polypropylene, acrylic and polyester will shed very little, if at all and are a great choice for high traffic areas.
Viscose is the worst offender of synthetic rugs when it comes to shedding and are generally not suited to high traffic areas.
Polypropylene rugs are non-shed and ideal for high traffic areas of the home.
How to combat shedding
There are a few simple tricks you can use to reduce rug shedding:
- Vacuum lightly once or twice a week in the direction of the pile using the lowest possible setting. While it may be tempting to vacuum your rug daily, over vacuuming can actually make shedding worse.
- Do NOT use beater bars or rotating brush heads as this will agitate and damage the fibres.
- Place your new rug in a low traffic area to begin with. Once the fibres have settled and become 'worn in' it can be moved to a high traffic area.
- Rotate your rug regularly (at least every 6 months) to promote even wear.
- A rug pad will keep your rug in place and absorb some of the impact of foot traffic helping to reduce shedding.
Note: Damp and humid weather can also have an impact on your rug, so don't be concerned if your rug sheds more during the warmer months.
If you have any questions we are here to help. Email us today!
