Wool rugs are best known for their durability and aesthetic appeal. They are also more versatile and easy to maintain; hence most owners will choose a wool rug over synthetic fiber rugs like acrylic polyester and nylon. Check out our FAQs section to learn more about woolen rugs, their features, pros, cons, and everything in between.

Wool as a material is one of the common natural fibers used to make carpets and area rugs. Our Wool rugs in Melbourne are durable and flexible for every space. Whether you need a small and soft wool rug for your bedroom or a larger, water and stain-resistant design for high-traffic areas, we have got you covered.

All the rugs in our custom Melbourne rug shop meet the highest design quality, and you’ll surely find the best design to suit your unique needs. Check out our wool rug FAQs below to help guide your decision-making.

What are wool rugs?

Wool rugs are natural handwoven fibers that can be customized to suit different floors and environments. They are resilient to the forces of wear and tear and are the most sought-after type of rugs on the market.

Are wool rugs worth the money?

Yes. Not only are wool rugs natural and durable, but they also enhance the aesthetic appeal of your space.

How can you know if a rug is woolen?

Remove one fiber from the rug and hold it using a paper clip. Use a lighter or matchbox to burn the fiber, then check how it burns. If the fiber burns slowly with an orange glow and without any smoke, then it’s wool. It should also smell like burnt hair.

What are the main benefits of a wool rug?

Wool rugs are hypoallergenic, making them suitable for everyone in the family, including pets. They are also sustainable, long-lasting, and low maintenance.

Are wool rugs expensive?

Due to their reliability and aesthetics, wool rugs are costly compared to nylon and other synthetic rugs.

How long do wool rugs last?

With proper care & maintenance, a wool rug can last anywhere from 30 to 50 years. On the other hand, synthetic rugs will only last 3 to 5 years.

What makes a rug luxurious?

The material used to make the rug, such as wool fibers, and the design often make some rugs more admirable than others. Check out our Luxury Melbourne Rug page for different designs of high-end wool rugs.

Are wool rugs itchy?

Not necessarily. Wool rugs with shorter and rough fibers can irritate the skin as they rub against it. However, those with longer and softer fibers are very comfortable.

What are the pros and cons of wool rugs?

Some of the key benefits of wool rugs are durability, color retention, sustainability, and versatility. One of the biggest downsides is the high upfront cost.

Does wool fade in sunlight?

If you expose your wool rug to sunlight for an extended period, it will fade with time.

Do wool rugs smell?

Yes, but under certain circumstances. The wool rug will develop an unpleasant smell if it has some mold or mildew build-up.

Do wool rugs get softer over time?

Yes. Wool rugs will often feel softer with time, making them even more comfortable.

Does wool catch fire?

Unlike synthetic rugs, wool is flame and fire-resistant. Similarly, they do not melt or stick to the skin when they burn. This makes them a great option for areas with high risks of fire incidents.

Are all wool rugs the same?

No. Wool rugs vary in quality, thickness, size, and design. The best wool rug for you will depend on your unique needs. Browse through our Rug Shop Melbourne collection to find the best wool rug that suits your taste and budget.

Does wool last longer than cotton?

Both wool and cotton are more durable than synthetics. However, wool last slightly longer than cotton, provided both are well taken care of.

Do wool rugs stain easily?

No. Often, wool rugs will repel stains unless they are exposed to stains frequently or for longer periods. They are also easy to clean; hence stains can be removed more effectively.

Does wool attract mold and mildew?

Wool rugs have fibers that allow moisture to pass through efficiently. This creates a less-than-ideal environment for mildew and mold growth. However, this isn’t to say that wool rugs are mold or mildew-resistant. Proper care and maintenance are still crucial.

Do wool rugs ever stop shedding?

Your wool rug may shade in the first few months after purchase, but this will stop after a couple more months of continuous use. Vacuuming your rug properly will help stop shedding.

Does wool have elasticity?

Wool is naturally elastic; hence it can stretch and shrink. The extent of this elasticity depends on the quality of the fiber, the thickness, and the overall design.

Can you hose down a wool rug?

During a deep cleaning exercise, yes; otherwise, you shouldn’t wet the entirety of your wool rug. This is because you won’t be able to dry it fast enough, and this can cause mold and mildew issues.

How can you know if a rug is of good quality?

You can tell the quality of a rug by looking at the number of knots per square inch. The higher/more the number of knots, the better the quality. Other factors to consider are the feel and softness of the fibers, how detailed the patterns are, and how rich the color is.

Do dogs like wool?

Pets love woolen rugs, thanks to the soft and comfortable feel. This also means you’ll need to regularly vacuum your rug to get rid of dog hairs and dander.

Are vegans against wool?

By definition, vegans are generally against exploiting animals for food, clothing, cosmetics, etc. This means wool isn’t vegan; however, we can’t confirm whether most vegans are against wool.

Is wool water resistant?

Yes, but up to some extent. A high-quality wool rug repels moisture droplets. It can also absorb up to one-third of its weight in moisture without feeling wet.

Is wool rough or smooth?

Wool, like cotton, has air spaces, which makes them rough to touch. They also have uneven surfaces, unlike nylon or silk, made of long and plain fabrics.

Are wool rugs difficult to take care of?

No. If you use the right cleaning components and techniques, caring for wool rugs is relatively easy. You can maintain a wool rug with frequent vacuuming, spot cleaning, and deep cleaning.

Can you use vinegar on a wool rug?

Yes. Vinegar is great for removing dirt and oil from your stained wool rug. You’ll need to add one cup of vinegar to two cups of water, then apply it to the stained parts while scrubbing it with an old toothbrush or another soft scrubbing element.

Can you use/put baking soda on a wool rug?

Baking soda is often used as a DIY cleaning technique for wool rugs. And while the entire process can be tedious, it’s a great alternative if you don’t want to use vinegar or detergents.

How do you get rid of the musty smell in wool?

Use a gentle detergent to wash the woolen rug, then add two tablespoons of white vinegar to the water used for a final rinse. Let the rug fully dry. If the smell persists, wash it again with vinegar until the smell disappears. Do not use harsh/strong detergents or chlorine bleach as they will damage the wool fibers.

Can you vacuum a wool rug?

Yes. You should vacuum your wool rug at least once every week. Always use a vacuum without a beater bar, as this can cause or expedite shedding problems.

How do you clean urine in a wool rug?

Use water and vinegar to clean the affected areas. You can also try baking soda, and mild liquid soap. Be sure to mix these ingredients in reasonable, preferably equal proportions.