Rug Source’s Guide to Wool Rugs: Types, Benefits, & Maintenance Tips

When we’ve talked about the various types of rug materials that skilled artisans use within their creations, we’ve typically mentioned three options. The first, silk, is often thought of as a luxurious material. The second, cotton, has its roots in various industries throughout history. The third is wool. Naturally, wool is a renewable resource sheared from sheep. So, how does it work as a rug material? Find out today in our ultimate guide to wool rugs.

In this guide, we’ll look at three main concepts: the types of wool rugs, their benefits, and some essential maintenance tips to keep them in peak condition.

The Types of Wool Rugs

Rugs, in general, come in several overarching styles. Those are:

• Handmade
• Hand-tufted
• Machine-made

You can find wool rugs in all three styles. The most durable type of wool rug will be a handmade one. These often have higher knotting counts, which help them withstand wear and tear more effectively.

We want to highlight one type of wool rug: Oushak rugs. These are unique wool rugs hailing from Uşak, Turkey. The nearby mountains contain higher concentrations of iron. When sheep drink this, their body absorbs the iron, which creates an even stronger rug material.

The Benefits of Wool Rugs

Durability is clearly one of the top benefits of wool rugs. However, there are others as well. The first is elasticity. Wool rugs retain their shape better and can “bounce back” faster after enduring foot traffic. Because of the nature of the material, they’re often water-repellent and can handle dirt easier than synthetic materials.

Finally, wool rugs can come in a wide variety of piles. This makes them a flexible addition to any home!

Maintenance Tips for Wool Rugs

Finally, let’s discuss a few maintenance tips. A moment ago, we referenced how wool rugs handle dirt. Eventually, they will show signs of soiling. When this happens, you’ll want to vacuum any loose dirt from the fibers. Next, hang it outside and use a rug beater to shake out any deeply embedded materials. Finally, spot-treat any stains using a mild soap and let them fully dry before placing the rug back on the floor.

Wool Rugs vs. Manmade Options

Wool is a sturdy material, and as we mentioned, it is sheared from sheep in various regions worldwide. Our last note for you to remember as a part of this ultimate guide to wool rugs is that a handmade wool rug will always be vastly superior to its machine-made counterpart. Handmade rugs have a higher knotting count with a significant focus on quality materials. This means your rug is an investment that should last you for many years simply by how and with what it’s made.

And if you’re looking for the best wool rugs, you’ve come to the right place. Browse our online inventory here or contact our team here to let them know what you’re looking for. They’ll be in touch ASAP with some options.