How do you remove stains from a wool rug?

Blot with cold water and mild wool cleaner. Never rub. Hire a professional for stubborn stains.

How often should you have wool rugs professionally cleaned?

Every 1-2 years for normal use. More often for high-traffic areas.

Most cannot. Check the care label. Hand wash with cold water and wool detergent if allowed.

New wool rugs shed for 6-12 months. Vacuum regularly. Older rugs that shed excessively may have damage.

Household

A clean wool rug makes a bigger difference than you'd think. Here's the most effective method, plus the mistakes most people make.

1
Vacuum gently
Vacuum the wool rug regularly without a beater bar. Beater bars damage wool fibers.
2
Test the rug for colorfastness
Dab a hidden area with a damp white cloth. If color transfers, only professional cleaning is safe.
3
Spot clean stains
Mix a wool-safe carpet cleaner with cold water. Dab stains gently with a soft cloth -- never rub.
4
Blot dry
Blot up moisture immediately with clean towels. Air dry completely before walking on the rug.
5
Brush fibers
Once dry, gently brush the fibers in the natural direction of the pile.

Some manufacturers allow it on lower heat settings. Hand cleaning or professional cleaning is safer.