Unlike most synthetic carpets, wool carpets cannot tolerate excessive moisture. So you can forget about conventional cleaning products. However, maintaining wool is not rocket science—just keep a few key principles in mind:
- Vacuum your wool carpet regularly. This is the best way to avoid the need for wet cleaning.
- Do not scrub it with rough brushes. You could damage the fiber structure.
- Do not use any products with bleach, dyes, or optical brighteners. Wool carpets should be cleaned only with products that have a neutral pH.
- Do not expose the carpet to direct, harsh sunlight. It could alter the color.
- Do not place flowerpots on it. If they overflow and you don’t notice, mold may begin to form on the carpet.
Fortunately, wool fibers are naturally oily, which helps them repel dust and dirt. Soiling does not penetrate as deeply. Even with wool carpets, though, speed is key when cleaning. The sooner you treat a stain, the better. So how can you clean it easily at home?
- The best option is to use fatty curd soap. Lather it on a sponge and gently scrub the carpet.
- Wipe the soap away with a damp cloth. Be careful—not to soak the carpet, and avoid using water that is too hot, as wool doesn’t respond well to it.
- Dry the cleaned area with a clean cloth and let it air dry. Never dry it in direct sunlight, as the carpet may discolor.
If you notice more serious dirt or stains on the carpet, it’s best to leave the cleaning to professionals. They also recommend having your carpet cleaned once a year for hygiene reasons and applying a protective treatment if you want it to stay clean longer. A well-maintained wool carpet will reward you with long-lasting durability and unmatched warmth.
