The Best Way To Clean Wool Carpet and Rugs

While wool carpets add beauty and luxury to any home, their unique characteristics require proper care and maintenance to preserve their appearance and longevity. 

Understanding the best way to clean wool carpets and tackle dirt, stains, and odors is not just a choice but a necessity. It's the key to safeguarding the delicate nature of wool fibers and keeping them in great condition.

Read on as we provide expert wool carpet cleaning and stain-removal tips, including using a reliable stain solver, such as Vanish.  

Whether you have a 100% wool carpet or rug or a blend of natural and synthetic fibers, the following cleaning tips will help you maintain it in good condition and prolong its life. 

1. Get rid of the dirt 

Take the carpet or rug outside (not applicable for glued-down carpets) and give it a strong shake to remove the deeply embedded dirt. Alternatively, hang it over a sturdy clothesline, porch railing, or a couple of strong chairs, and beat it with a broom or tennis racket to loosen the dirt.

2. Vacuuming 

Lay the carpet or rug flat on your deck, patio, or a clean tarp with the underside facing up, and vacuum it thoroughly. Remember to use a vacuum cleaner with soft bristles and good suction to gently agitate any trapped or loosened dirt and dust. 

No matter how careful you are, getting coffee, dirt, pet stains, etc., on your wool carpet or rug is a normal part of everyday life. When dealing with any type of stain, there are a few rules of thumb to follow: 

• Act promptly to remove a stain as soon as you notice it. The longer it remains on the carpet, the harder it becomes to eliminate.

• Remove as much excess solid substance from the affected area as possible using the dull edge of a knife or spoon. 

• Blot the area with fresh, clean, and transparent paper towels or microfiber towels.  

• Avoid rubbing, pushing, or scrubbing the area, as this can cause the stain to set deeper into the carpet fibers. 

Follow the instructions below to remove almost any stain from wool carpet or rug. 

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Vacuum your carpet. 

2. Mix 1 part Vanish 3 in 1 Carpet & Upholstery Shampoo with 9 parts water (max temperature 40°C).

3. Whisk the solution into a foam. 

4. Apply the foam on the stained area using a brush or sponge. 

5. Sponge the stain with the stain remover foam solution. 

6. Blot the stain every 5 minutes with a clean area of the cloth (or a new cloth) and some more cleaning solution.

7. Blot the area dry with a clean cloth, and allow it to air dry completely for one day.

Fortunately, stain-removing products like those in the Vanish range can help remove tough carpet stains, whether fresh or dried. Read our product guide for carpets to make your carpet as good as new.

How often should I vacuum my wool carpet?

Vacuum your wool carpet at least once a week or more often in high-traffic areas such as hallways, entrances, ways, and living rooms. 

Can I use bleach to remove stains from wool carpet? 

No, you should never use bleach on a wool carpet, as it can disintegrate the fibers or cause fading. Instead, use a high-quality stain remover like Vanish to effectively eliminate stains without damaging the carpet.

How can I prevent stains on wool carpet in the future?

Below are some of the most common ways to prevent carpet stains. 

• Apply a wool-safe carpet protectant after a thorough, deep clean.

• Regularly vacuum carpets to prevent deep-rooted stains. 

• Use doormats to prevent mud, dirt, and dust stains on the carpet.