How to Flatten a Rug

Rugs are an excellent way to add color and texture to a room, but over time, they can become bunched up, detracting from their appearance. 

Flattening a rug is a simple process that can be done in a few steps and will help restore the rug's smoothness and beauty. 

In this article, we'll guide you through the steps to effectively flatten a rug, whether it's made of wool, cotton, or synthetic fibers, and provide tips to help prevent future wrinkling. 

But first let’s get a better understanding of why your rug has started to curl up.

Why do rugs wrinkle and curl

Rugs can wrinkle and curl due to several reasons, including humidity, temperature changes, improper storage, and heavy foot traffic. 

Humidity can cause the rug fibers to expand and contract, which can result in wrinkling. 

Temperature changes can cause similar issues, especially if the rug is exposed to direct sunlight. Improper storage, such as rolling the rug too tightly or folding it, can cause it to curl. 

Heavy foot traffic can also cause the rug to curl or wrinkle, especially if it's not properly secured to the floor.

But not all is lost. Follow any of the 5 methods listed below to flatten your rug. 

5 ways to flatten a rug

Here are five methods that you can use to help flatten that curling rug of yours.

1. Place heavy objects on the rug: Place heavy objects, such as books or cans, evenly on top of the wrinkled area. Leave them in place for several hours or overnight to allow the weight to flatten the fibers.

1. Roll the rug: Roll the rug tightly, starting from one end and working your way to the other. This will help distribute the pressure evenly and flatten any wrinkles.

1. Use a steam cleaner: A steam cleaner releases hot steam that can help loosen and relax the fibers in the rug, causing the wrinkles to disappear.

1. Hang the rug: If you have the space, hang the rug over a clothesline or railing for a day or two. The weight of the rug will pull it down and help flatten the wrinkles.

1. Iron the rug: Place a clean towel over the wrinkled area and gently iron over it on a low heat setting. This will help release the fibers and smooth out the wrinkles.

Remember to always test a small, inconspicuous area of your rug before attempting any of these methods to ensure that they won't cause any damage.

How to prevent your rug from bunching up

Here are some tips to prevent your rug from bunching up in the future:

Rotate the rug regularly: Rotating your rug every few months will help distribute wear and prevent bunching in high-traffic areas.

Use a rug pad: A rug pad will help hold the rug in place, preventing it from sliding and bunching up.

Vacuum regularly: Regular vacuuming will help keep the fibers of the rug from becoming matted and bunched up.

Avoid moisture: Moisture can cause a rug to bunch up, so it's important to keep the rug dry and avoid exposing it to water or dampness.

Trim any loose threads: Loose threads can become tangled and cause the rug to bunch up, so it's important to trim them regularly to maintain the integrity of the rug.

Flatten the rug regularly: Regularly flattening the rug will help prevent any wrinkles or bunches from becoming permanent.

By following these tips, you can keep your rug looking smooth and wrinkle-free for years to come.

Finding the perfect rug

If you're in the market for a rug,  we got you covered. We offer a wide range of high-quality rugs that are designed to meet a variety of styles, budgets, and needs. 

Whether you're looking for a small area rug or a large statement piece, we have the perfect option for you. 

To browse our full collection of rugs click here.