Nevertheless, just as with any other rug, they need to be cleaned properly, including deep cleaning. Cowhide, unlike synthetic rugs, requires specialized handling and treatment because it is an organic material and a sensitive hair-on-hide cover. This tutorial will take you step by step through the deep cleaning process, keeping you fresh and alerting you about the pitfalls to avoid.
Preparing Your Cowhide Rug for Deep Cleaning
To get the best results without harming the rug, preparation should be done before getting started on deep cleaning.
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Start with a thorough vacuuming: First, vacuum with a machine that has no beater bar or a rotating brush to pick up topsoil and clutter. Lightly vacuum with the brush going along the hair growth. Turn the rug upside down and vacuum the other side too to make sure that all particles trapped in there are removed.
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Shake it out: Assuming you can take it outside, shake it and get as much of the residual dust or grit dislodged as possible out of the fibers.
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Inspect for damage: Carefully check out torn edges, fraying, or non-existent strands. Be cautious, if your rug is fragile or has some areas that have worn out, be careful--such areas will need careful treatment when cleaning them.
Step-by-Step Process for Cleaning a Cowhide Rug
When your rug is ready, it is time to start the deep cleaning. This is a step-by-step process that is safe and effective to use on cowhide.
1. Spot Cleaning Problem Areas
Make a mixture of mild soap (such as a detergent that is gentle and safe on leather, or baby shampoo) and lukewarm water. Gently blot the stained part with a soft sponge or an unsullied microfiber cloth. Never rub, always dab, as rubbing can only hurt the hair and make bald spots. Do not soak a rug. A leather would not accommodate too much water, hence make sure your cleaning tools are not drenched.
2. Surface Cleaning with a Leather Cleaner
When you have finished the stain treatment, apply some cleaner or conditioner that is safe for leather over the rug. With a clean cloth, smooth the product into the hide, working in the direction the hair grows. This will wash off not only dirt and grime but will also preserve the natural oils in the hide. Apply a little of the cleaner to a hidden place to ensure it does not leave discoloration or build up.
3. Drying the Rug Naturally
You will lay the rug on a flat surface in a very aired, open room, avoiding direct sunlight and heating equipment. Never hang it or drape it over railings to dry, since it will cause stretching or warping. Never use the rug until it is dry again. Otherwise, mold or mildew may develop.
How to Keep Your Cowhide Rug Fresh Between Cleanings?
A deep clean occasionally needs to be done, but keeping things fresh is a weekly activity. These are a few tips to keep your rug clean in between thorough washings:
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Vacuum frequently in suction only or with a hand vacuum without a brush roll.
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Use a dry cloth or a soft-bristled brush to brush the rug to reset the hair direction and shake off the surface dirt.
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Naturally deodorize by sprinkling some baking soda on the rug. Leave it the same for about 20 to 30 minutes and vacuum to freshen up.
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Every couple of months, another side of the rug should be put to use, to make sure no side wears out quicker than the others.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Cleaning Your Cowhide Rug
Cleaning a cowhide rug is not a big task; however, getting some very wrong elements done can destroy the rug, making it useless forever. The most typical pitfalls to avoid are:
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Using harsh chemicals or bleach: These may remove the natural oils on the hide, discolor it, and dissolve the leather.
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Over-wetting the rug: Too much water may penetrate the hide and the hide will warp, turn mildew, or even lose hair.
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Scrubbing too hard: Rough scrubbing weakens the fine hair and may cause bald spots or changes in the texture of the hair.
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Using heat to dry: Hair-on-hide rugs must never be blow-dried with a hairdryer, positioned near a heater, or exposed to direct sunlight. Leather gets brittle and cracks with heat.
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Skipping the patch test: Whenever you wish to use any new cleaning product, do a patch test by applying the product on a small and discreet spot to determine its compatibility with the hide.
What to Do If Your Cowhide Rug Becomes Damaged During Cleaning
You will do your best, but accidents may still occur throughout the cleaning process. Particularly when the cowhide is old or already worn out. It could be hair loss, curling edges, stiffness, or even discoloration. The damage needs to be dealt with as fast as possible to avoid further degeneration.
1. Stop Cleaning Immediately
During the cleaning process, you must stop the process once you detect that there is any form of damage, such as hair shedding off, cracks in leather, or changes to the shape of the rug. Prolonged use would intensify the situation.
2. Assess the Damage
Carefully examine the affected part. Such typical problems are:
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Aggressive scrubbing that led to bald spots
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Wrinkling or edging curling through over-wetting or incorrect drying
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Hard spots or cracks caused by rough chemicals
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Staining or discoloration of untested cleaners
If you contact a professional repair service, take clear photos.
3. Avoid DIY Fixes for Major Issues
You might be tempted to use glue, dye, or heat to solve the problem at home, but most of the time, this complicates the situation. In case the rug is either priceless or not-so-costly, but you have an attachment to it, it is better to entrust the repair to a professional.
4. Consult a Professional Rug Cleaner or Leather Specialist
Check with someone who works with the repair of cowhide or leather. They are able to neutralize the hide, clip matted hair spots, straighten curling edges, and even add color or pliability to rigid areas. Most will also do patch repairs in case the damage is huge.
5. Prevent Future Damage
After the repair, write down what led to the damage, too much moisture, an incorrect product, or too much scrubbing combined. This will assist you in planning how to change your cleaning techniques in the future. Use mild methods, do some testing, and clean when required.
Pro Tip: In the case that the rug cannot be used at home anymore, take the pristine parts of the rug and use them to cover pillows, chair cushions, or hang them on the wall to reflect its beauty.
Conclusion
Cleaning a cowhide rug is a crucial aspect when it comes to the maintenance of its natural sophistication and durability. By taking care of it with adequate preparation and gentle cleaning methods. With routine maintenance, your cowhide rug can continue to be the beautiful focal point in your home over the coming years. Consult a professional, natural-hide rug cleaner when in doubt, or when your rug contains tough stains or damage.
Disclaimer
This reading is an informational guide. Always experiment with any method of cleaning on a small, inconspicuous part first. MK Rugs does not take responsibility in case of damage or discoloration caused during cleaning. On a valuable or antique cowhide carpet, we suggest consulting a professional.
