Cleaning a fur rug, especially a faux sheepskin rug, requires special care to ensure its longevity and maintain its softness and beauty. While it may be tempting to toss it in the washing machine, this can cause excess friction and damage.
In this article, I will provide an overview of the best cleaning methods for faux sheepskin rugs, including regular maintenance, hand washing, what not to do, removing specific stains, and when to use professional cleaning.
By following these steps, you can keep your fur rug looking and feeling its best for years to come.
Key Takeaway
- Perform regular maintenance like vacuuming, spot cleaning stains, and shaking out the rug to keep it clean and prevent buildup of dirt.
- For deeper cleaning, use a mild detergent and cold water to hand wash the rug gently with a soft brush, rinse thoroughly, blot excess moisture with a towel, and allow to air dry.
- Avoid machine washing, hot water, bleach products, washing entire large rugs at once, and rubbing stains excessively as these can damage fibers.
- For stubborn stains or very dirty rugs, consider professional cleaning services that have the expertise and equipment to clean delicates properly and thoroughly.
Best Faux Fur Rug Cleaning Tips
Here are the best hand washing methods for effective cleaning while preserving the integrity of your rug:
Regular Maintenance
The first step in keeping your fur rug clean is regular maintenance. Regular maintenance is key to keeping your fur rug clean and free from dirt and debris.
This involves a few simple steps that can make a big difference in keeping your rug looking fresh and vibrant.
- Vacuum Regularly: Start by vacuuming your rug regularly to remove loose dirt and debris. Be sure to use a vacuum cleaner with a gentle upholstery attachment to avoid damaging the delicate fibers of the rug.
- Spot Clean Stains Quickly: If you notice any stains on your rug; spot clean any stains or spills on your fur rug as soon as they occur. The key is to act quickly to prevent the stain from setting. Use a mild detergent mixed with cold water and a clean cloth to gently blot the stained area. Avoid rubbing the stain, as it may cause it to spread or damage the fibers.
- Shake Out the Rug Occasionally: To maintain the fluffiness and softness of your fur rug, give it a good shake occasionally. Take the rug outside and shake it vigorously to remove any embedded dirt or dust. This will help to loosen any trapped dirt or debris and keep the rug looking its best.
Hand Washing Method
If your faux sheepskin rug requires deeper cleaning, hand washing is the best way to ensure its longevity. By following these hand washing steps, you can effectively clean your fur rug without the risk of damaging it:
1. Mix Mild Detergent with Cold Water
The first step in hand washing your faux fur rug is to create a cleaning solution by mixing mild detergent with cold water. This gentle combination effectively cleanses the rug without causing any harm to the delicate fibers.
2. Gently Scrub with Soft Brush
Using a soft-bristled brush, gently scrub the surface of the rug with the cleaning solution. Take care not to apply too much pressure to avoid damaging the wool fibers. This method ensures thorough cleaning while maintaining the rug’s soft texture.
3. Rinse Soap Residue Thoroughly
After scrubbing, rinse the rug thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. Proper rinsing is essential to prevent buildup, which can dull the appearance of the rug over time.
4. Blot Excess Moisture with Towel
Once rinsed, blot the rug with a dry cloth or towel followed by a damp cloth, to remove excess moisture. Avoid wringing or twisting the rug, as this can cause deformation or damage to the fibers. Instead, gently press down to absorb the water.
5. Air Dry Out of Sunlight
Finally, allow the rug to air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Hanging the rug or laying it flat on a clean surface will help it retain its original shape. This step is crucial for preventing any potential damage from UV rays.
What Not To Do!
While it’s important to know how to clean a fur rug properly, it’s equally crucial to understand what not to do. Avoid these common mistakes to prevent any potential damage to your rug:
1. No machine washing or drying
Washing machines can cause excess friction and damage the delicate fibers of faux sheepskin rugs. Therefore, it’s best to avoid machine washing or drying them.
2. Avoid hot water
Using hot water during the cleaning process can shrink your fur rug, altering its size and shape permanently. Stick to cold water for optimal results.
3. Never use bleach products on the rug
Bleach products can be too harsh for fur rugs and can cause discoloration or damage to the fibers. It’s best to avoid using them at all costs.
4. Do not wash the entire large rug at once
Cleaning a large fur rug can be challenging, especially if it doesn’t fit in your bathtub or basin. It’s best to clean it in sections rather than attempting to wash the entire rug at once. This will ensure a more thorough and effective cleaning process.
5. Blot Area Gently, Don’t Rub Excessively
When treating stains, it’s important to remember to blot the area gently rather than rubbing it vigorously. Rubbing can cause the stain to spread or damage the fibers of the rug.
Following these guidelines will help you avoid any mishaps and keep your fur rug in pristine condition.
Removing Specific Stains
Sometimes accidents happen, and specific stains need extra attention. Here are some common stains and how to remove them from your fur rug:
Wine, coffee, grease, etc.
For common household stains, spot treat the affected area with a mild cleaner or a mixture of mild soap/detergent and cold water.
Gently blot the area with a clean cloth, being careful not to rub excessively. Repeat the process until the stain is gone.
Ink or marker stains
To remove ink or marker stains, apply a small amount of isopropyl alcohol to a clean cloth and dab the stained area. Blot gently until the stain lifts.
Pet urine stains
If your fur rug has been soiled by pet urine, start by blotting up as much liquid as possible with paper towels. Then, mix a solution of equal parts white vinegar and cold water in a spray bottle.
Spray the stained area lightly and blot with a clean cloth. Repeat the process until the odor and stain are eliminated.
Remember, the key to successful stain removal is to act quickly and avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage your rug.
When To Use Professional Cleaning
While regular maintenance and hand washing can effectively clean most fur rugs, there are instances when professional cleaning may be necessary.
Professional cleaning services have the necessary equipment and expertise to handle delicate fur rugs effectively. They can ensure that your rug receives the care it needs without the risk of damage.
Here are a few situations in which professional cleaning is recommended:
- Very Dirty High Traffic Rugs: If your fur rug is located in a high traffic area and has accumulated a significant amount of dirt and grime, a professional cleaning can ensure a thorough and deep cleaning.
- Wool Damage or Felting: If you notice any signs of wool damage or felting on your rug, it’s best to seek professional cleaning. They have the expertise to address these issues without further damaging the rug.
- Sanitizing after sickness: If someone in your household has been sick, it’s advisable to have your fur rug professionally cleaned to eliminate any bacteria or germs that may have been transferred to the rug.
Conclusion
Cleaning a fur rug, particularly a faux sheepskin rug, requires special care to maintain its softness, beauty, and longevity.
Regular maintenance, including vacuuming, spot cleaning, and occasional shaking, is crucial to keep the rug free from dirt and debris.
Hand washing is the most effective way to clean a fur rug, using cold water and mild detergent. It’s important to avoid machine washing, hot water, bleach, and washing the entire large rug at once.
For specific stains, follow the appropriate stain removal techniques, and when in doubt, seek professional cleaning for a thorough and safe cleaning process. By taking proper care of your fur rug, you can enjoy its luxurious and cozy feel in your home for a long time.