Short answer: vacuum your Moroccan rug once a week with suction only (no beater bar), blot spills immediately with a clean cloth and cold water, and have it hand-washed by a professional rug cleaner every one to three years. Never use a steam cleaner, bleach or hot water on wool.
Weekly care
- Vacuum with suction only, in the direction of the pile. A rotating brush pulls fibers out of a deep-pile rug.
- Avoid the fringe: lift the vacuum before you reach it, or it can get caught.
- Shake small rugs outside, and turn larger rugs over occasionally to vacuum the back, which pushes out grit from the base.
Spills
- Act fast. Lift any solids with a spoon.
- Blot, never rub, with a clean white cloth.
- Dab with cold water and, if needed, a drop of mild wool-safe detergent.
- Blot again with dry cloths and let it air-dry flat, away from direct heat.
Shedding
New wool rugs shed loose fibers for the first weeks or months. It is normal, comes from short fibers left from spinning, and decreases with regular vacuuming. It does not mean the rug is wearing out.
Odors
A light wool smell after shipping is normal. Unroll the rug in a ventilated room for a few days. For a stronger smell, sprinkle baking soda, leave it overnight and vacuum.
Deep cleaning
Every one to three years, depending on traffic, take the rug to a professional who hand-washes wool rugs. Ask for a cold or lukewarm wash with wool-safe products and flat drying.
What never to do
- No steam cleaners or hot water: they can shrink wool and make colors run.
- No bleach or strong carpet chemicals.
- No machine washing for anything but very small rugs, and only if the care label allows it.
More tips in our Authenticity & Care guide.