How to Clean Every Kind of Rug Out There

Rugs are an investment piece, and I urge clients to allow their budget to reflect this. Rugs are what we often begin with and build a room around, so let’s give them the respect they deserve! When cared for properly, rugs can last decades or longer. In my own home, I have both a vintage and an antique rug, at least 60 years old each. 

How exactly do we maintain them so they stay immortal? Below, I break down what to do according to material and fabric. 


1. Polyester

Clean with gentle detergent as needed (Fill one bucket with detergent, one bucket with water. Use a rag and gently clean then rinse, section by section).

2. Silk

Spot clean with equal parts vinegar and water.

3. Jute

Spot clean with detergent and as little water as possible, making sure to dry it thoroughly after. 

4. Wool

Clean with a wool-specific detergent once a year (Fill one bucket with detergent and one bucket with water, and work your way from one end of the rug to another with a rag, cleaning and rinsing).

5. Cotton

Check the care instructions, but usually you can machine wash on a gentle cycle with warm water and hang to dry.

6. Vintage

Call in the pros!

For valuable or large rugs, you’ll want to call in a professional service. Remember to vacuum at least twice a month and take care of stains immediately to keep these babies in tip-top shape. 

Hands up if you’ve never actually hand-cleaned your rugs at home? You’re not alone! Now that you know what to do, do you think you will?

Check out my free resource below!

What to consider when combining new and old materials into your space.

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