Wool Rugs shedding: What is normal?

If you have just purchased a wool rug and are concerned about shedding, it is important to know that this is actually very normal. Shedding is when the fibres fall out from them rug, or stick out from the rug in tufts. This can be devastating for an owner of a rug who has carefully made an investment in a quality wool rug. They may think that they have made the wrong choice when they notice the shedding; however it is important to know that all woollen rugs shed.

Shedding is not a sign of poor quality or mistakes in the manufacture of the rug. Even if you invest in the best wool rugs on the market, there will still be some signs of shedding. While you may still feel dismayed when you see it happen, it is important to realise that this is simply part of the process of introducing a wool rug into your home. Wool rugs do experience shedding, and there is no real reason to be disappointed with your purchase.

How long does the shedding last?

Shedding should not last forever. It may be more dramatic when you first purchase the rug, but it should stop or decline after a few months. During this time, wool rugs will settle down, and you should eventually notice that rugs shed less and less.

Can I prevent wool rugs from shedding?

While you cannot prevent wool rugs from shedding completely, you can certainly take great care of them, and ensure that you do not actively encourage the shedding. Some rug owners may think that they are caring for their rugs, but in fact they are actually causing their rugs to shed more.

Vacuuming is a huge cause of shedding. While you will want to keep your rug clean, you will also need to consider the impact that this action has on your rug. A vacuum can be very strong and it can harshly manipulate the rug that you are trying so hard to protect.

Vacuuming will pull the fibres away from the rug and cause them to shed even more. If you do need to vacuum, avoid using a strong level of suction, and try using a hand held suction piece, so that you do not put too much pressure on your rug than you need to.

If you spill food on your rug, the first step should be trying to scrape it off, and you should then sponge the area to remove the rest of the stain. Instead of vacuuming, you can try sweeping your rug, which could be just as beneficial in removing dirt and dust. Try investing in a special broom that is gentle on your rug, but that still works to clean it.

If your wool rug is shedding, you can try trimming the tufts with a pair of sharp scissors, so that they do not stick up and look unsightly. Another way to care for your wool rug is to use an underlay which will help soften the impact of people walking across the rug. An underlay is like a cushion that sits between your rug and the floor. Not only will it help prevent shedding, it will feel great to walk on your rug because it will be softer on your feet.

Remember that all wool rugs experience shedding and this is okay, however you can take steps to minimise the damage, and after a few months you should notice that the rug sheds less and less.