Wool hides soil well, resists crushing, and lasts for decades, which is exactly why people ruin it. The fiber is a protein, and protein does not tolerate high alkalinity, hot water, or harsh oxidizers.
What damages wool
Strong alkaline detergents strip the natural lanolin and leave the fiber brittle and dull. High heat can shrink and felt the pile. Chlorine bleach and many oxygen boosters cause permanent color loss. Over-wetting a wool rug with a jute backing causes browning and shrinkage.
Routine care
Vacuum both sides regularly with the beater bar off or on a high setting, rotate the rug twice a year so wear and sun exposure even out, and use a quality pad underneath.
- Vacuum front and back
- Rotate every 6 months
- Blot spills, never rub
- Use a breathable rug pad
- Keep out of direct all-day sun
Handling spills
Blot with a white towel from the outside of the spill inward. Cool water only. If you must use a product, use a wool-safe neutral cleaner and test it on a hidden corner first.
Professional cleaning frequency
Every 12 to 18 months for a wool rug in a living area, more often with pets. The dry soil removal step alone extends the life of the rug significantly.
Bottom line
We test dye stability before we clean any wool rug and use neutral, wool-safe products. Request a wool rug quote.