How to Clean a Faux Fur Rug: Follow These Easy Steps and Tips

Faux fur rugs are a popular and often more affordable option to decorate a space. There are numerous advantages to having a faux fur rug, but like the genuine kind, they need regular maintenance and the occasional deep cleaning.

As the name suggests, faux fur rugs are made from synthetic fibers that resemble genuine animal fur. The fibers can vary in length and thickness, which is why you'll see that the rugs vary in faux fur density and height.

They also come in numerous styles and colors, making them a versatile decorative option for any space, including an office, living room, or bedroom, to name a few. Over time, these animal-friendly rugs collect dust and debris, which calls for regular maintenance (covered later).

A faux fur rug placed in front of a rocking chair | Source: Shutterstock

Deep cleaning is also essential. Here are a few things to keep in mind, whether you're deep cleaning or simply keeping your faux fur rug good as new:

1. Read the label.

The label of your faux fur rug should give you some guidance regarding how to clean it properly. Some faux fur rugs are machine-washable; if yours is among them, you'll want to use the delicate wash cycle, ensuring you don't add anything else with the rug inside the machine. Additionally, you should always air-dry your faux fur rug; don't use the dryer.

It's also worth noting that some faux fur rugs are only hand-washable; however, consult the label to confirm. Using a method not recommended by the manufacturer may irreparably damage your rug.

A woman tip-toeing on a faux-fur rug | Source: Shutterstock

2. Avoid overly harsh or toxic cleaning materials.

It might be best to try and find cleaning materials specifically catered for cleaning faux fur or research which ones are least likely to damage the composition of your rug.

A woman using white vinegar diluted with water and baking soda to clean a faux fur rug | Source: Shutterstock

3. Be careful with the vacuum.

When vacuuming your faux fur rug, if one is available to you, it is strongly recommended that you use the hose or (if you have one) a hand vacuum. Ensure you vacuum in the direction of the fur to avoid tangling the fibers.

Vacuuming a faux fur rug | Source: Shutterstock

4. Be gentle.

Always be gentle when cleaning your faux rug; take your time.

Cat laying on a faux fur rug | Source: Shutterstock

How to Deep Clean a Faux Fur Rug Step-by-Step

Before you start, ensure no other elements that could stain your rug, like soil or sand, are in your cleaning space. Additionally, check the weather to see if you'll have clear skies during the day so your cleaning progress is not hindered by rain.

1. Move your rug to an outdoor space where you can carry out the cleaning process.

2. To remove the dust and debris, you can either shake the rug vigorously—call for an extra set of hands if it's big or use a carpet beater—or vacuum the rug using the low suction setting. Do both if possible; this way, removing the loose dirt will be more effective.

Use a carpet beater to shake off dust and debris off the rug | Source: Shutterstock

3. Mix two tablespoons of liquid soap with six cups of warm water in a bucket or large bowl. Noteworthy: you may need more, depending on the rug size.

4. Take a soft cloth, dunk it into the solution, and then lightly squeeze some of the excess water out.

Lightly squeeze some of the excess liquid but leave the cloth damp | Source: Shutterstock

5. Dab the damp cloth on a section of the rug with a bit of pressure. Repeat this 2-3 times and move across the rug in sections until it is fully covered in the solution.

Dab the damp cloth on the rug and move in sections until it is fully covered in the solution. | Source: YouTube/Randomly PH

6. Fill a bucket or large bowl with cold water. Take a clean, soft cloth, dunk it inside the water, and lightly squeeze out some of the excess.

7. Dab the damp cloth on a section with some pressure. Repeat this 2-3 times and move across the rug in sections as you previously did. This step will help remove the soap from your rug.

Dab a cloth damp with clear water across your rug to remove the soap | Source: Shutterstock

8. Now, take a dry cloth and blot-dry your rug to absorb as much excess water as possible. Once the rug is only slightly damp, leave it to air-dry overnight or longer (if needed).

9. Ensure you return it to its original spot once completely dry to avoid damage and water stains.

Air-dry your faux fur rug. | Source: Shutterstock

Regular Maintenance Tips

In between deep cleans, there are ways to maintain your faux fur rug's fluffiness and composition. Here are a few:

Comb and Vacuum

A comb placed over a faux fur rug | Source: Getty Images

Spot Cleaning

Spot cleaning uses a similar method to the deep cleaning process described above. If your faux fur rug is stained in a small area, you want to remove that stain as soon as possible.

Dip a soft cloth in a soapy water solution and gently rub the stained spot to remove the dirt. Then, use a dry cloth to soak up the excess liquid. To dry, leave the spot to air-dry or use a hair dryer in a medium heat setting.

A drink spilled on a faux fur rug | Source: Getty Images

The above deep cleaning steps and regular maintenance tips should lengthen the life span of your faux fur rug. If you were cleaning it on a balcony, here's how to tidy up the space without upsetting your neighbors.