Cleaning animal rugs requires careful handling to preserve their natural fibers and backing. While specific methods can vary slightly depending on the animal source (cowhide, sheepskin, etc.) and how the rug is processed, basic maintenance and careful spot cleaning are key.
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your animal rug looking its best.
Regular Animal Rug Maintenance
- Shake it Out: For smaller rugs, take them outside and give them a good shake. This is the simplest way to remove loose dirt, dust, and debris trapped in the fibers.
- Vacuum Carefully: Vacuuming can help remove surface dirt from larger rugs. Use a low suction setting and avoid using the beater bar, as this can damage natural fibers and the hide backing. Vacuum with the grain of the hair or fibers. For cowhide rugs, some sources recommend vacuuming only the hair side gently and not the leather side.
Addressing Spills and Stains
Accidents happen, but prompt and careful spot cleaning can prevent permanent stains.
- Act Quickly: Blot spills immediately using a clean, dry cloth or paper towel. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain and push it deeper into the fibers.
- Use Minimal Moisture: When spot cleaning, it's crucial to be very cautious with liquids, especially on hide-backed rugs like cowhide. As highlighted in the reference: "Water and leather don't get along too good on a on a regular basis." Excessive water can damage the leather backing, causing it to become stiff or brittle. Use a slightly damp cloth with a mild soap solution if necessary, but use as little moisture as possible and dry the area immediately with a clean, dry cloth.
- Avoid Oil: The reference also specifically advises against applying oil: "you don't want to put any oil on the leather or anything like that." Avoid oil-based cleaning products or conditioners unless specifically recommended for the rug type and tested first.
- Test First: Always test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area of the rug before applying it to the stain.
- Brush Gently: For some animal rugs, like sheepskin, a wire brush designed for pet hair can help fluff the fibers once the area is dry. For cowhide, brush with the direction of the hair using a stiff brush.
Deep Cleaning Considerations
Full immersion or extensive wet cleaning is generally not recommended for most animal hide rugs due to the risk of damaging the leather backing. If your rug requires more than spot cleaning, professional cleaning specializing in animal hides is often the safest option.
Important Considerations for Specific Rug Types:
- Cowhide: Highly sensitive to moisture on the leather side. Focus on shaking, gentle vacuuming, and prompt, very minimal spot cleaning on the hair side. Avoid folding tightly; roll for storage.
- Sheepskin: Can sometimes be carefully hand-washed if unlined, but lined rugs require more care. Always check the manufacturer's instructions. Brushing helps maintain fluffiness.
Taking these steps will help maintain the beauty and longevity of your animal rug.
