How to Clean a Moroccan Rug

Moroccan rugs are timeless heirlooms, woven by hand using natural wool and dyes. But how to clean a moroccan rug without damaging its soft pile or fading its rich colors?

In this wool rug cleaning guide, we’ll show you:

• How to clean Moroccan rug at home
• What to do for stains and odors
• When it’s time to call a professional

Why Moroccan Rugs Need Special Care

Moroccan rugs, especially Beni Ourain, Azilal, and Boujaad rugs — are handmade with 100% sheep wool and dyed using natural pigments. These materials give them their softness and rich character, but they also require gentle care to preserve their beauty. To understand how color plays a role in preservation, check out our guide on Berber Rug Colors: What Each Hue Means.

• 100% sheep wool
• Natural vegetable or mineral dyes
• Hand-knotting or flat-weave techniques

These traditional materials mean they require gentler cleaning than synthetic rugs.

Weekly Maintenance Tips

Keep your rug fresh with these regular care tips:

✅ Do:

• Vacuum lightly (no beater brush!)
• Shake outside to remove dust
• Rotate rug every few months

🚫 Don’t:

• Vacuum the fringes
• Soak with water
• Use harsh detergents

How to Clean a moroccan rug (Spills)

Act fast when something spills on your rug:

Step-by-step:

1. Blot the area with a clean white cloth
2. Mix cold water + white vinegar (50/50)
3. Dab gently using a sponge — no scrubbing
4. Blot again with dry towel and air dry

⚠️ Don’t use bleach, soap, or steam cleaners.

Deep Cleaning at Home (Once or Twice a Year)

When the rug starts to look dull or feels dusty deep inside, try this:

1. Take it outside on a sunny, dry day
2. Shake it or gently beat with a stick
3. Mix water with a mild wool detergent
4. Wipe surface gently with a sponge
5. Rinse with water (no hose blasting!)
6. Dry flat in the shade — not direct sun

When to Call a Professional Cleaner

Hire a wool rug expert if:

• The rug is vintage or expensive
• There’s a strong odor or pet stains
• The weave feels loose or delicate

⚠️ Ask if they specialize in handmade wool rugs before booking.

Tips to Protect Your Rug Long-Term

• Use a natural rug pad to reduce slipping and wear
• Avoid placing it under harsh sunlight
• Roll it (never fold) when storing
• Keep away from damp or humid areas

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Cleaning your Moroccan rug doesn’t have to be scary. With gentle care, your rug will age beautifully and last for generations — just like the traditions it was born from.