Cowhide rugs are becoming an increasingly popular choice for home decor as they are incredibly resilient and versatile. Although cowhide rugs are known to be durable and relatively easy to maintain, they are not completely immune to stains or wear over time. However, with proper care and consistent maintenance, your cowhide rugs can last for decades.
This helpful guide will cover tips on how to clean your cowhide rugs and advice on properly maintaining their pristine quality for as long as possible.
Different Cleaning Methods for Cowhide Rugs
No matter what type of cowhide rug you own, whether it’s an Ikea cowhide rug or a faux cowhide rug, the cleaning methods are generally the same and quite simple to follow. In fact, cowhide rugs are one of the easiest rug types to clean.
Cowhide rugs have natural stain-resistant properties, which means that as long as the stains haven’t penetrated the fibres, they can usually be managed with simple cleaning methods like blotting with a clean cloth. Here are some cowhide cleaning methods you can use and when you need to do them.
Method #1: Shaking Your Cowhide Rug
Shaking your cowhide rugs at least once a week removes the loose dust and debris between the fibres. Doing this method regularly prevents these tiny particles from embedding deeply into your rug, which can be difficult to vacuum and cause damage over time.
To shake your rugs, find an open space outside, hold the rug firmly, and shake it vigorously. By shaking the rug, you loosen any trapped dirt or particles, which will either fall off completely or be lifted to the surface, making it easier to vacuum later.
Method #2: Vacuuming Your Cowhide Rug
If your cowhide rug is in high-traffic areas such as the living room or hallway, it should be vacuumed 2-3 times a week. Routine vacuuming prevents dust, dirt, and debris from building up on your rugs.
Before vacuuming your cowhide rug, remove attachments such as the rotating brush or beater bar, as they can cause shedding and pull out the delicate fibres.
Gently vacuum the rug following the direction of the hair. This technique prevents the hair from getting ruffled and maintains the rug’s smooth texture. Pay extra attention to edges and corners where dust and debris tend to accumulate.
Method #3: Steam Cleaning Your Cowhide Rug
For a deeper clean, consider steam cleaning your cowhide rugs every six months. Never throw your cowhide rugs into the washing machine or significantly wet it, as excess moisture can cause the hide to become stiff and potentially warp, ruining the rug’s natural texture.
To remove deep-seated dirt, bacteria, and allergens, use the steam cleaning method. This will keep your rugs in pristine condition and extend their lifespan.
Before steam cleaning your rugs, make sure you’ve shaken and vacuumed the external dirt and debris to allow the steam to penetrate more deeply and clean more thoroughly without spreading the dirt around. Here are some easy-to-follow steps to steam-clean your cowhide rug:
- Prepare Steam Cleaner: Fill with water and mild detergent if advised.
- Perform a Spot Test: Ensure the rug reacts well to steam cleaning.
- Carefully Use the Steam Cleaner: After securing the upholstery attachment on your steam cleaner, gently move it in long, straight lines.
- Blot Excess Moisture: Use clean, dry towels to absorb the excess water.
- Air Dry Completely: Lay flat in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Rotate Your Rugs Every Few Months
It’s also important to rotate your cowhide rugs at least once every few months. This helps distribute wear and tear evenly across the surface.
High-traffic areas can cause specific sections to deteriorate more quickly, and by rotating the rug, you ensure that all parts of the rug receive equal foot traffic, preventing uneven wear and prolonging the rug’s life.
How to Remove Stains on Your Cowhide Rug
While cowhide rugs have stain-resistant properties, this does not mean that they are immune to all stains. It’s crucial to act quickly when accidents occur to prevent stains from setting in.
Here’s what you need to do after spilling any type of liquid on your cowhide rug:
- Blot the Spill Immediately: Quickly blot any spills with a dry cloth to absorb excess liquid. Avoid rubbing to prevent spreading and deepening the stain.
- Clean the Rug with Mild Soap: Mix a small amount of mild liquid soap with lukewarm water. Dampen a clean cloth with this solution and gently blot the stain. Rinse with another cloth dampened with water and blot dry.
- Dealing with Stubborn Stains: For more challenging stains, mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Gently apply this solution with a cloth and blot the stain. Rinse with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly with a clean towel.
- Drying Properly: After cleaning, ensure the rug dries completely by laying it flat in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent colour fading and maintain the rug’s pristine condition.
How to Remove Tough Odours From Your Cowhide Rug
There are several factors that can cause unpleasant odours on your cowhide rugs, including spills from food and drinks that are not immediately cleaned, pet accidents, and high humidity.
There are multiple methods you can use to get rid of these tough smells; here are just some:
- Baking Soda Method: Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that can absorb and neutralize odours. After shaking and vacuuming, generously sprinkle baking soda on your cowhide rug. Let it sit for several hours or overnight to neutralize odours. Vacuum up the baking soda the next day.
- Water & Vinegar Solution: To remove tough odours, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the rug without soaking it, then let it air dry completely in a ventilated area away from sunlight. The evaporating vinegar will eliminate the odours, leaving your rug fresh.
- Air Out Your Cowhide Rug Outdoors: Letting your rug breathe outside can naturally remove odours. Pick a shaded, breezy spot and lay it flat. Keep it out of direct sunlight to avoid colour fading. Leave it for a few hours so the fresh air and indirect sunlight can refresh it. Repeat occasionally to maintain freshness.
For more detailed information on how to remove pet smells from your rugs, read our comprehensive blog here.
How To Clean A Faux Cowhide Rug
Faux cowhide rugs, made from synthetic fibres like polyester or acrylic, are less sensitive to harsh chemicals and moisture. This allows for easier cleaning with stronger agents and more rigorous methods.
For stubborn stains, spray a mild detergent solution, blot with a damp cloth, rinse with water, and blot dry.
Additionally, many faux cowhide rugs can be machine-washed, but make sure to check the care label first. Once you confirm that it’s safe, wash on a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent, then lay flat to dry in a ventilated area.
Importance of Professional Cowhide Cleaning
Although it’s possible to clean your cowhide rugs on your own, to get ideal results, it’s best to hire professional rug cleaners. Our expert rug cleaners at Love Your Rug have the knowledge and access to specialized equipment to ensure that your delicate cowhide rugs are thoroughly cleaned and handled with care.
We can tackle deep-seated dirt, stubborn stains, and persistent odours, restoring your rug to its original condition while preventing any potential damage from DIY cleaning methods.
