Let's get straight into it! This is what you are going to need but it will take 2 minutes to read & follow instructions shared below to get your rug look as good as new!!
Wool rugs — especially flatweave styles like kilims, dhurries, or modern wool area rugs — add warmth, texture, and timeless style to any home. But they also attract dirt, spills, and odors over time. Many people search for “how to clean wool rug at home,” “wool rug cleaning DIY,” or “how to clean wool flatweave rug without damaging it” because professional cleaning can be expensive and wool is delicate.
The good news? You can safely refresh your wool rug at home using gentle, natural methods. In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about wool rug care, including the popular baking soda and mild soap method that customers love.
Why Wool Rugs Need Special CareWool is a natural fiber that’s durable yet sensitive to:
- Excess moisture → can cause shrinking, mildew, or color bleeding
- Harsh chemicals → strip natural oils and damage fibers
- High heat or aggressive scrubbing → leads to fraying or distortion
Best Way to Clean Wool Rug at Home: Baking Soda + Mild Soap MethodOne of the safest and most effective DIY methods uses common household items: baking soda and mild dish soap. Customers often report their wool flatweave rugs look “good as new” after trying this gentle combo.
Ingredients (for ~2 cups of solution)
- 2 cups warm water (not hot)
- 1 teaspoon mild, pH-neutral dish soap (clear Dawn or similar wool-safe detergent)
- 1–2 teaspoons baking soda
- Vacuum Thoroughly
Start by vacuuming both sides of the rug on a low-suction setting (no beater bar) to remove loose dirt and dust. -
Test for Colorfastness
Mix a small amount of the solution and test on a hidden corner. Wait 10–15 minutes. If no color transfers to a white cloth, proceed. -
Spot Clean Stains
- Dip a clean white cloth or sponge in the solution.
- Wring it out well — it should be damp, not dripping.
- Gently blot the stain from the outside toward the center. Never rub or scrub.
- Let sit 5–10 minutes, then blot with plain cool water to rinse.
- Repeat until the stain lifts.
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Deodorize & Refresh the Whole Rug
- Sprinkle a thin layer of dry baking soda over the rug (about ½ cup for a 4×6 ft rug).
- Let it sit for 1 hour or overnight to absorb odors.
- Lightly mist with the soap-water solution (or blot damp areas).
- Gently work in with a soft brush if needed.
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Rinse & Dry Properly
- Blot with clean water to remove any residue.
- Press with dry towels to absorb moisture.
- Lay flat to air dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Use fans to speed drying, but avoid direct sunlight or heat sources.
- Flip the rug occasionally for even drying. Full drying may take 1–2 days.
- Final Vacuum
Once completely dry, vacuum again to restore texture and remove any remaining baking soda.
Common Wool Rug Stains & Quick Fixes
- Pet urine → Blot immediately, then use the baking soda method. Add 1 tablespoon white vinegar to the rinse water for extra odor control (test first).
- Red wine or coffee → Blot with cold water, then apply the mild soap solution.
- Mud → Let dry completely, then vacuum or brush off before spot cleaning.
You might also want to try our Machine Washable Rugs
Collection- https://richclassdecor.com/collections/bath-rugs-mats
Routine Wool Rug Maintenance Tips
- Vacuum weekly (both sides when possible).
- Rotate the rug every 6 months for even wear.
- Shake small rugs outdoors to remove dust.
- Use a rug pad to prevent slipping and reduce dirt tracking.
- Address spills immediately with blotting (never rubbing).
When to Call Professional Rug CleanersConsider professional cleaning if your rug is:
- Antique or hand-knotted
- Heavily soiled or has persistent odors
- Showing signs of moth damage
- Larger than you can safely handle at home
Final Thoughts
Cleaning your wool rug at home doesn’t have to be complicated or risky. With gentle methods like baking soda and mild dish soap, you can keep your flatweave or area rug looking fresh and beautiful for years.
Have you tried this method on your wool rug? Share your results in the comments below — we’d love to hear what worked for you!
