Flokati rugs are known for their cozy texture and unique appearance, making them a stylish addition to any home. However, their long, shaggy pile and woolen fibers require special care to keep them looking their best. Cleaning a flokati rug can be a bit more challenging compared to other rugs, but with the right approach, you can maintain its beauty and extend its lifespan. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to effectively clean and care for your flokati rug.
Topics Covered
- Are flokati rugs hard to clean?
- How to clean a flokati wool rug
- What about odors?
- How to take care of a flokati rug
- Can you put a flokati rug in the washing machine?
Are flokati rugs hard to clean?
Flokati rugs can be somewhat challenging to clean compared to other types of rugs due to their unique construction and material. Flokati rugs are made from wool fibers that are long, shaggy, and densely packed, which can trap dirt, dust, and debris. The natural wool fibers also require specific care to prevent damage, shrinkage, and matting.
How to clean a flokati wool rug
Cleaning a flokati rug can be confusing – after all, it looks fragile and they are expensive, so the last thing you want to do is to ruin it. Luckily, we’ll show you two effective ways of cleaning it.
Step 1: Regular maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your flokati rug in top condition. Here’s what you can do:
Shake it Out: Take your flokati rug outdoors and gently shake it to remove loose dirt and debris. This simple step helps prevent dirt from becoming embedded in the fibers.
Fluff it Up: Gently fluff the rug with your hands to restore its fluffy texture. This step helps maintain the rug’s appearance and prevents matting.
Step 2: Spot cleaning
Accidents happen, and when spills occur, it’s important to address them promptly. Follow these steps for spot cleaning:
Blot the Stain: Use a clean, white cloth or paper towel to blot the stained area gently. Avoid rubbing, as it can push the stain deeper into the fibers.
Mild Detergent: Mix a small amount of mild wool detergent with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Dab the stained area with the detergent solution using a clean cloth.
Rinse: Dampen another cloth with clean water and gently blot the area to rinse out the detergent.
Dry: Allow the rug to air dry in a shaded area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Make sure the rug is completely dry before placing it back indoors to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Step 3: Vacuuming
Vacuuming a flokati rug requires a gentle touch to avoid damaging the fibers. Here’s how to do it:
Choose the Right Attachment: Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment or a handheld vacuum. Avoid using a beater bar, as it can pull and stretch the wool fibers.
Adjust the Height: If your vacuum cleaner allows, adjust the height setting to the highest level to prevent the fibers from getting tangled in the brush.
Vacuum Gently: Run the vacuum over the rug in the direction of the pile, using gentle and slow motions. Avoid applying too much pressure.
Step 4: Professional cleaning
For a deep and thorough cleaning, consider professional rug cleaning services. Professional cleaners have the expertise to handle delicate wool fibers and can effectively remove dirt and stains without causing damage.
What about odors?
Pet odors on rugs are never pleasant but there’s an easy way of taking care of it. All you have to do is sprinkle and rub in a fairly generous amount of baking soda over the rug and leave it overnight while the baking soda absorbs all the odors.
Vacuum everything up the next morning with a strong vacuum without any attachments. You may want to hang the rug outside and hit it with a broomstick to get any extra baking soda out – but that all depends on the strength of your vacuum cleaner.
How to take care of a flokati rug
Preventing dirt and stains is just as important as cleaning. Here are a few tips to keep your flokati rug looking its best:
No Shoes: Encourage family members and guests to remove their shoes before stepping onto the rug. This reduces the amount of dirt and debris brought onto the rug.
Keep out of direct sunlight: If your rug receives sunlight during certain parts of the day, then consider relocating it in such a way so that it doesn’t. Sunlight, even in small amounts, can distort the color of your flokati rug and it won’t look as good as it should.
Fluff up your rug: With enough time, the wool fibers will begin to flatten and the rug won’t look as beautiful and vibrant as it once did. Not to worry, because all you have to do is brush the wool strands with a little clean rake from time to time to bring back it’s vibrancy. And don’t worry if some of the strands come loose while raking – it’s perfectly normal.
Let it wear evenly: It’s more than likely that one side of the rug will receive a lot more foot traffic than the other. To prevent one side from becoming visibly worn, try to rotate the rug from time to time so that it can wear more evenly.
Can you put a flokati rug in the washing machine?
While some may be labeled as machine-washable, it’s important to exercise caution when considering washing a flokati rug in a washing machine. Flokati rugs are made from wool and have a unique construction that can be delicate and prone to damage if not cleaned properly. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:
Check the Care Instructions: Always refer to the care instructions provided by the manufacturer or on the rug’s label. Some flokati rugs may be specifically designed for machine washing, while others may require professional cleaning.
Size Matters: The size of your flokati rug is a significant factor. Large rugs may not fit properly in a home washing machine and could be damaged during the washing process. Small and medium-sized flokati rugs are better suited for machine wash.
Use a Gentle Cycle: If you decide to machine-wash your flokati rug, use a gentle or delicate cycle with cold water. Avoid using hot water, as it can cause the wool fibers to shrink and felt.
Mild Detergent: Use a mild detergent that is suitable for wool or delicate fabrics. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the wool fibers.
Avoid Agitation: Excessive agitation can cause the rug to shed and lose their characteristic fluffiness. Opt for a gentle cycle with minimal agitation.
Use a Mesh Bag: Placing the flokati rug in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase can help protect it during the washing process and prevent tangles or snags.
Spin and Rinse Carefully: After washing, avoid high-speed spinning, as it can stress the rug’s fibers. Instead, opt for a low spin setting or gently squeeze out excess water by pressing the rug between clean towels.
Air Dry: Allow the flokati rug to air dry naturally in a shaded area, avoiding direct sunlight or high heat. Hanging the rug may help maintain its shape during drying.
Fluff and Brush: Once the rug is dry, gently fluff and brush the wool fibers with your fingers to restore its fluffy texture.
Professional Cleaning: If you’re unsure about washing your flokati rug in a machine or if it’s a larger or more valuable rug, consider seeking professional rug cleaning services. Professional cleaners have experience handling delicate rugs and can ensure a safe and thorough cleaning process.
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