Mastering Rug Maintenance: Your Ultimate Guide to Rug Care and Materials

At Simple Style Co., we want your rugs to last and maintain their beauty for years to come. With proper care, your rug will continue to bring comfort and style to your space. Follow this guide for the best practices to keep your rug looking its best.

General Care Tips

Rotate your rug every 3-6 months: This helps prevent uneven wear and fading, keeping your rug looking fresh.
Use a rug pad: A rug pad not only adds cushioning but also protects your floors from scratches and extends your rug’s lifespan.
Schedule professional cleaning: For high-traffic areas or as needed, have your rug professionally cleaned every 12 months or so to maintain its condition.
Avoid direct sunlight: To protect your rug from fading, try to rotate it regularly and keep it out of direct sunlight whenever possible.
Check the manufacturer’s care label: Always follow the specific care instructions for your rug’s fabric to ensure proper maintenance.

Vacuuming

Vacuum regularly: Once a week, using the lightest setting. Avoid using a beater bar or robotic vacuums, which could damage the fibres.
Vacuum in the direction of the pile to reduce shedding.
Vacuum the rug’s base occasionally: Dirt can accumulate at the base, especially on thicker rugs.

Spills and Stains

Immediate action is key: Blot spills with a paper towel or colourless cloth (never rub!).
Mild soap and warm water can be used on most rugs, but always check the care label first.

Dry Cleaning

Professional cleaning is essential for delicate rugs, such as wool, viscose, or silk. They have specialized equipment and solutions to restore your rug to pristine condition.

Machine-Washable Rugs

Machine-washable rugs make life easier—especially in busy, pet-friendly or family homes—but it’s important to follow the correct steps to protect your rug and your washing machine.

Before Washing

Check the care label: Only rugs labelled “Machine Washable” can safely go in the machine.
Review our Washing Machine Capacity Guide :
Each rug size requires a specific minimum drum capacity to allow it to move freely during the wash.
Overloading your machine can cause tearing, stress to the backing, or friction marks.
Vacuum first: Remove dust and debris to prevent extra wear and clogging during the cycle.
Shake out loose dirt: Give the rug a gentle shake outdoors before washing.

During Washing

Use a delicate cycle with cold water, low spin, and slow tumble settings.
Add a mild detergent only and avoid bleach, fabric softeners, or harsh chemicals.
Do not overload the drum: Your rug should move freely inside the machine for an even clean.
Wash separately: Avoid washing your rug with towels, clothing, or other textiles.

After Washing

Air dry only: Do not tumble dry. Lay flat or hang over a line in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
Avoid direct sunlight: Prevent fading and fibre damage by drying in indirect light.
Ensure the rug is completely dry before placing it back on the floor to prevent mildew.

Tip: Use a fan or air conditioner to speed up drying time, but avoid direct airflow on the rug.

Storage

Roll, don’t fold: When storing, always roll your rug with the pile facing inward to avoid cracks and loss of shape.
Use breathable materials: Wrap your rug in acid-free brown paper or clean cotton fabric, not plastic, which can trap moisture and cause mildew.

Rug Care by Fibre

We offer a range of rugs made from various high-quality fibres, each requiring its own care routine to maintain its beauty and longevity. Below is a more detailed guide for caring for your rug based on its fibre type.

Polypropylene rugs are highly durable, stain-resistant, and easy to maintain, making them a great choice for busy households and high-traffic areas. With regular care, they’ll retain their softness and vibrant appearance for years to come.

Regular Maintenance
Vacuum weekly using a low-suction or brushless vacuum to remove dust, dirt, and pet hair without damaging the fibres. Rotate your rug every 3–6 months to prevent uneven wear and fading. To extend its lifespan further, use a rug pad to reduce movement, protect floors, and add extra cushioning. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as this may cause colours to fade over time.

Spot Cleaning
Attend to spills immediately by gently blotting the area with a clean, colourless cloth—never rub, as this can damage the fibres. Mix a small amount of mild detergent with warm water, apply gently to the spot, and blot dry. Always remove soap residue by lightly rinsing and blotting again to prevent future dirt build-up.

Deep Cleaning
For a more thorough clean, use a rug shampooer with cold or lukewarm water and a mild detergent designed for synthetic fibres. Avoid over-wetting the rug, as excess moisture can damage the backing. For large or heavily soiled rugs, we recommend professional rug cleaning to maintain the rug’s condition and texture.

Storage
When not in use, roll (don’t fold) your rug with the pile facing inward. Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, wrapped in breathable fabric—never plastic—to prevent moisture build-up or mildew.

💡 Key Takeaway:
With routine vacuuming, prompt spot cleaning, and occasional professional care, your polypropylene rug will stay fresh, functional, and stylish for years to come.

Polyester rugs are soft, durable, and naturally stain-resistant, making them ideal for busy homes. With a little care, they’ll maintain their colour and texture for years to come.

Regular Maintenance
Vacuum weekly using a low-suction or brushless vacuum to remove dust and debris without damaging the fibres. Rotate every 3–6 months to prevent uneven wear and fading, and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Using a rug pad will also reduce slipping and extend the rug’s life.

Spot Cleaning
Blot spills immediately with a clean, dry cloth—never rub. Mix a small amount of mild detergent with warm water, apply gently to the area, and blot again to remove residue. Allow the rug to dry completely before walking on it.

Deep Cleaning
For an overall clean, use a rug shampooer with cold or lukewarm water and a mild detergent, or hire a professional rug cleaner. Avoid over-wetting the rug, as excess moisture can damage the backing.

Machine Washable Rugs
Some polyester rugs are machine washable. Only rugs specifically labelled “Machine Washable” should be placed in a washing machine. Always follow the care label and the instructions in our Washing Machine Capacity Guide to prevent damage.

Storage
Roll (don’t fold) the rug with the pile facing inward and store it in a dry, ventilated area wrapped in breathable fabric, not plastic.

💡 Key Tip: Always follow the care label provided with your rug to ensure it stays beautiful for years to come.

Wool is a durable, natural fibre that offers warmth, softness, and timeless appeal. With the right care, your wool rug will maintain its luxurious feel and beauty for years to come.

Regular Maintenance
Vacuum weekly using the lightest suction setting and a brushless head to avoid pulling or damaging the fibres. Always vacuum in the direction of the weave to preserve the rug’s natural structure. Rotate your rug every 3–6 months to ensure even wear and fading, particularly in sunny or high-traffic areas.

Avoid using rotating brush heads or robotic vacuums, as their aggressive bristles and strong suction can catch, fray, or pull at the wool fibres and damage the pile or fringed edges.

Shedding
Wool rugs naturally shed during the first few months of use—this is normal and will gradually reduce over time. Regular, gentle vacuuming helps minimise shedding and keeps the surface looking fresh. Avoid high-powered vacuums or roller brushes, which can worsen shedding and damage the pile.

Spot Cleaning
Blot spills immediately using a clean, dry cloth—never rub, as this can cause pilling or fibre distortion. For stains, mix a small amount of mild detergent with cold water, gently apply to the affected area, and blot again until clean. Rinse lightly with water if needed to remove detergent residue, then blot dry.

Deep Cleaning
Wool rugs benefit from professional cleaning every 1–2 years, depending on use. Professional cleaning removes deep dirt, restores softness, and helps maintain the rug’s natural oils. Avoid steam cleaning or excessive moisture, as wool fibres are sensitive to heat and humidity.

Storage
If storing your rug, roll it with the pile facing inward and wrap it in breathable cotton or acid-free paper. Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and humidity.

💡 Key Takeaway:
Regular gentle vacuuming, prompt spill care, and occasional professional cleaning will keep your wool rug looking and feeling beautiful for many years.

Jute and wool blend rugs combine the natural, earthy texture of jute with the softness and durability of wool. With the right care, these rugs will stay beautiful and comfortable for years to come.

Regular Maintenance
Vacuum weekly using a low-suction or brushless vacuum to remove dust, dirt, and pet hair. Always vacuum in the direction of the weave to protect the natural fibres. Rotate your rug every 3–6 months to ensure even wear, particularly in sunny or high-traffic areas. Avoid using rotating brush heads or robotic vacuums, as they can catch and fray the natural jute fibres.

Spot Cleaning
Act quickly when spills occur. Blot the affected area immediately with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel—never rub, as this can push the liquid deeper into the fibres. Use a mild detergent mixed with cold water for spot cleaning, then blot again with a dry cloth. Avoid over-wetting, as excessive moisture can cause the jute fibres to become limp or discoloured.

Deep Cleaning
For a full refresh, professional cleaning is recommended. Professional rug cleaners use specialised methods that protect both the wool and jute fibres from shrinkage or distortion. Avoid steam cleaning or saturating the rug with water.

Placement Tips
Jute is naturally more sensitive to moisture than wool. Place your jute and wool blend rug in dry, well-ventilated areas—avoid bathrooms, kitchens, or outdoor spaces where humidity or spills are common.

Storage
Roll (don’t fold) your rug with the pile facing inward. Wrap it in breathable fabric such as cotton or acid-free paper, and store it in a cool, dry, well-ventilated space away from sunlight and moisture.

💡 Key Takeaway:
Gentle vacuuming, prompt spill care, and avoiding excess moisture will help your jute and wool blend rug maintain its natural beauty, texture, and shape for years to come.

Jute is a natural, eco-friendly fibre that adds warmth and texture to any space. While beautifully organic, jute is more delicate than some other fibres and benefits from extra care to maintain its appearance over time.

Regular Maintenance
Vacuum weekly using a low-suction or brushless vacuum to remove dust and debris from the surface. Avoid using rotating brush heads or robotic vacuums, as these can pull and fray the natural fibres. Rotate your rug every 3–6 months to ensure even wear, particularly in sunny or high-traffic areas.

Spot Cleaning
Clean spills immediately by blotting gently with a clean, dry cloth. If needed, use a slightly damp cloth and a small amount of mild detergent, but avoid soaking the rug. Jute is highly absorbent, and excess moisture can cause the fibres to weaken, darken, or develop mould.

Deep Cleaning
Jute rugs should not be steam cleaned or saturated with water. For a thorough clean, shake the rug outside to remove trapped dust, or arrange for professional cleaning by a specialist experienced in natural fibres.

Placement Tips
Because jute is sensitive to moisture, place your rug in a dry, well-ventilated area—avoid bathrooms, kitchens, or outdoor spaces where spills or humidity are common.

Storage
When storing, roll the rug with the pile facing inward and wrap it in breathable cotton or acid-free paper. Keep it in a cool, dry space away from sunlight and dampness to prevent mildew or fibre damage.

💡 Key Takeaway:
Gentle care, dry cleaning methods, and minimal moisture exposure will keep your jute rug looking fresh, textured, and beautiful for years to come.

By following these detailed care guidelines, your rug will stay beautiful and durable for years to come. If you need more specific advice or help identifying the fibre of your rug, our friendly team is always here to assist!

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Rug Care Guide