Wool rugs have become a favorite among homeowners because of their natural beauty, warmth, and durability. If you’ve ever owned a carpet made of wool, you might have noticed it sheds – especially when it’s new. Wool rugs shed due to their natural fibers. We will explore the reasons why wool rugs shed and why this is a common characteristic.
Wool is a natural fiber.
Wool is a fiber made from sheep’s fleece. Wool is a natural fiber that sheds, especially when it’s new. Wool fibers are naturally coated with lanolin. This waxy substance protects the fibers against moisture and dirt. This lanolin can cause the rug to shed when it is first purchased. The fibers rub together.
Handmade Rugs Shed More
Handmade wool carpets, like Persian or Oriental rugs, shed more than machine-made rugs. The hand-knotted and hand-woven construction results in more fibers. These fibers can be dislodged by walking on the carpet or vacuuming it.
Shedding Decreases over Time
It is important to know that while shedding is normal with wool rugs, the amount of shedding usually decreases as time goes on. The carpet will shed less over time as the fibers are dislodged by walking on it. It is still important to vacuum the rug and keep it clean to remove any loose fibers.
Shedding Doesn’t Affect the Quality
It is important to know that while shedding can be an issue for some rug owners, it does not affect quality. It is important to note that shedding is not a problem for wool rugs. In fact, it is a characteristic of natural fibers and a sign the carpet was made with high-quality materials. The rug’s appearance and longevity should not be affected by excessive shedding as long as it is properly cared for.
The natural properties of the wool fibers are responsible for shedding. Although shedding is a concern to some rug owners, it does not affect quality and will usually diminish over time. Be prepared for the possibility of freeing when you buy a wool carpet. Follow care and maintenance instructions to ensure that your rug looks beautiful for years to come.