However, cowhide rugs are special because of their natural feel, but the question many owners will want to know is whether getting the rugs vacuumed will harm them or whether it is a safe option to clean them. It is a short answer, of course, a cowhide rug can be vacuumed, but it should be done properly to avoid damage.
Why Vacuuming a Cowhide Rug Is Essential?
Vacuuming is one of the important steps to clean your cowhide rug. It assists in the removal of dirt, dust, and debris, which, with time, could accumulate. Also, frequent vacuuming helps avoid accumulation, which may contribute to the general worn or faded appearance of the rug.
How to Vacuum a Cowhide Rug?
Vacuuming a cowhide carpet is generally safe, but here are some important points to keep in mind so you do not destroy the hide:
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Use the Right Vacuum:
Check that your vacuum cleaner is set to suction only, and do not use a vacuum with a beater bar. The beater bar is intended to flail the carpet fibers that may be too heavy on the fragile surface of a cowhide rug. When cleaning the cowhide, use a cleaner mechanism that is not hard, so to speak; use a vacuum cleaner that has a soft suction feature.
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Vacuum in the Direction of the Hair:
A cowhide rug should be vacuumed with the hair (fur) going with the grain. This will prevent, to a large extent, the pulling of the hair by the vacuum in the opposite direction that might result in shedding or fiber damage.
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Don’t Overdo It:
Vacuuming can be a helpful way to maintain the carpet, but it is not to be overdone in an abrasive manner. Excessive vacuuming may make the hide lose strength and destroy the natural lustre, particularly at the edges. Once or twice a week, vacuuming should be sufficient to keep your cowhide rug fresh.
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Be Cautious Around the Edges:
Cowhide rugs may have rather sensitive edges. Vacuuming under and around these spots requires caution lest the suction force in the vacuum pulls at the edges or causes curling of the rug.
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Vacuuming Under the Rug:
When the surface under your cowhide rug is hard, such as wood or tiles. It is also good practice to vacuum beneath the rug occasionally. This will assist in removing any dust or dirt that might have settled beneath the rug and avoid it being trapped in the fibers.
Tips for Maintaining Your Cowhide Rug
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Spot Cleaning: Besides vacuuming, you should spot clean your cowhide rug when there is spilling. Wipe the stain with a damp, very soft, soapy water. Never wet the rug, because this will cause damage to the hide.
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Brushing: Brush your cowhide rug with a soft brush occasionally. This will help to brush off any dirt or dust that might be trapped between the fibers, maintaining the rug fluffy and vibrant.
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Avoid Direct Sunlight: Exposing a cowhide rug to direct sunlight for a long duration can make the colors fade. To maintain the rug, keep it in a place where there is indirect light.
Can Vacuuming a Cowhide Rug Damage It?
When correctly done, vacuuming must not destroy your cowhide rug. But in case you apply an improper type of vacuum or over-vacuum the surface. There will be a risk of either pulling the hide or flattening its natural texture. Make sure you know you are working with a vacuum that has the correct settings when you are handling delicate materials.
Final Thoughts
Vacuuming also plays a crucial role in keeping a cowhide rug clean and beautiful. However, it must be done with a lot of care. With the proper vacuum settings, not over-vacuuming, and handling carefully around the edges. A cowhide rug can stay fresh and new-looking for many years. Simple care or cleaning, like vacuuming and brushing, will help your cowhide rug keep its natural beauty and become a full statement piece in your area.
Disclaimer
Cleaning processes as discussed in this blog are orientative. The cleaning methods should always be tested on a small and unnoticeable part of the rug first before being used on the whole rug. When in doubt about cleaning and maintaining your cowhide rug, you may consult professional cleaners. Any damage that might occur in the cleaning or maintenance service is not the liability of MK Rugs.
