There’s nothing more frustrating than falling in love with a beautiful rug, only to find fibers scattered all over your floors. Rug shedding is a common issue, especially with new or natural fiber rugs, but the good news is—it can be managed.
Why Do Rugs Shed?
Rug shedding usually happens because of:
-
Loose fibers from the weaving process – especially in wool rugs.
-
Low-quality materials or construction – shorter fibers break away more easily.
-
Normal wear and tear – friction from foot traffic or vacuuming can pull fibers loose.
5 Tips to Reduce Rug Shedding
1. Vacuum Gently
Avoid using a beater bar or high suction. Instead, use a handheld attachment or set your vacuum to its lowest power to prevent pulling out extra fibers.
2. Shake It Out
For small to medium rugs, take them outside and give them a good shake. This removes loose fibers without stressing the weave.
3. Brush or Comb
Use a soft carpet brush or pet brush to gently groom the rug in the direction of the pile. This helps release any fibers that were going to shed anyway.
4. Trim Loose Ends
If you notice stray strands sticking up, resist the urge to pull them! Instead, carefully snip them with scissors to avoid unraveling.
5. Choose Wisely
If you’re shopping for a new rug and want to avoid shedding altogether, consider materials like nylon, polypropylene, or high-quality cotton flatweaves, which shed far less than wool or shag rugs.
Final Thought
Some shedding is completely normal, especially with wool rugs, and it often lessens over time. With proper care, you can keep your rug looking fresh, cozy, and stylish—without having to sweep up fibers every day.
