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After taking the time choosing your new product we are sure you will want keep it in top condition. Here are a few key tips to help keep your new rug looking good.

Vacuuming

To keep your rug in good condition regular vacuuming is advised. A new rug will last longer and look better if a routine of vacuuming is followed. This helps prevent dirt on the surface of the rug filtering down into the pile where it can accumulate and cause increased wear.
Rugs that have a longer or looser pile are not recommend for regular vacuuming as this will only damage the pile and cause excessive shedding. For best results, beat the rug to loosen any ground in dirt and then lightly vacuum. We do not recommend the use of a strong suction vacuum without an attachment as these are particularly powerful and may cause damage to the pile.

Fluff

Like any new jumper, a rug is also susceptible to some fluffing or pilling after being laid. This is in relation to excess yarn compression during the creation of your rug. It is advisable to actively vacuum during the first few months and the problem should disappear as quickly as it appeared.

Loose Threads

Loose threads can sometimes occur during the manufacturing process but don’t panic!
These do not indicate the item is substandard or faulty in any way; normally this is easy to solve, simply take a pair of scissors and cut the loose end to the appropriate pile height.

Spills and Stains

Accidents can happen, especially in the company of young children and pets. The basic rule is to act fast. Blot up excess spills with a clean white cloth or paper towel. Never rub as this can spread the stain. Once the stain is contained, work from the outer edge to the centre applying a proprietary carpet cleaner with a clean cloth. Avoid soaking the affected area as this can spread the stain. Once clean, pat any excess moisture with a paper towel and allow to dry.

Antislip

If your rug is to be laid straight onto a smooth surface such as tiles or wooden flooring, it is advised to use an underlay to prevent the rug from slipping when walked across.

Pets

The best types of rugs to introduce into a pet friendly home are those made from wool. Wool is a natural fibre & contains a natural amount of oil and is, therefore, unlikely to absorb pet oils creating any unpleasant smells. We generally do not recommend synthetic or acrylic rugs to be used in pet friendly homes.

Child Friendly

Wool rugs are not the best solution for children under 18 months as the wool fibres can easily get into small lungs. For very young children we generally recommend avoiding long pile shaggy rugs of any kind and recommend an acrylic based rug, which has a very sterile and stable pile.

Furniture

When arranging your furniture it is wise to have some form of protection under the legs to prevent the carpet fibres from being crushed. Avoid sharp castors or narrow legs and rotate furniture from time to time.

Fading

Fading can happen when a rug is left in sunlight for prolonged periods of time. This problem can be avoided by regularly rotating your purchase end to end.

Moths

Moths love natural fibres and thrive in dark places. To help protect against moths, your rug should be regularly lifted and turned especially if any part is under furniture. It is also recommended to use your vacuum attachment to reach into crevices. If you need to store your rug for any length of time, take care to pack it with moth repellent.

Question not answered?

Here are a few more useful tips based on specific material types.

Wool

Being a natural material, wool is resilient whilst also offering a fantastic feel. It will also generally last longer and look better if a routine of regular vacuuming as suggested above is followed. Deep pile & shaggy wool rugs may not initially lie completely flat but after a few weeks will settle and flatten out. During the first few months loose yarn may come off, this is perfectly normal and is an intrinsic feature of wool. This should not be classed as a fault.

Acrylic/Esperille

Acrylic yarns are the closest synthetic yarns available and give a similar look and feel to natural wools. They are generally very hard wearing and most marks can be cleaned away simply by using a damp cloth or clean water.

Natural Fibres

Natural coir, sisal and grass-based products all have similar properties and should be treated with care. All are based on a natural fibre that is dried and then spun into a thread or fibre that is then woven. As such they are susceptible to potential staining and should be treated with care. Water is not always the best solution to removing marks, we generally recommend a specialist proprietary cleaning kit or professional advise from an expert. Alternative Flooring Company offers a special cleaning kit that works on most stains.

Viscose

Most people don't realise viscose is entirely sourced from wood pulp and as such is a natural material. Viscose is often called ‘Art Silk’ and can be used to accentuate detail or for its soft surface texture being a reflective material. As a natural fibre, viscose is susceptible to water and can stain. As such if you have an accident or your viscose rug needs to be cleaned you should never attempt to clean it with water. Please seek professional help.

Leather

Most patchworks or hides are quite durable, however they are known to dry out, given most homes have central heating these days. As a general rule leather likes to hold approx. 6-8% moisture. Popping your rug outside on a line to air or simply leaving an window open for a couple of hours will ensure your rug has a chance to breathe and lasts longer.

Not found what you need?

If you still have a question get in touch by emailing us at service@woven.co.uk or give us a call.