Do Oushak Rugs Shed? What's Normal and What to Do

Yes — a new hand-knotted wool Oushak rug will shed a little at first. This is normal, temporary and not a sign of poor quality.

Why new wool rugs shed

When a hand-knotted rug is finished, its pile is sheared to an even height. Short loose fibers from spinning and shearing stay trapped in the pile and work their way out with foot traffic and vacuuming. The knots themselves are not coming loose.

How long does shedding last?

Most of the loose fiber comes out over the first few weeks to few months, depending on how much foot traffic and vacuuming the rug gets. After that, shedding drops to a minimal level.

How to reduce shedding

  • Vacuum regularly with suction only or with the beater bar raised.
  • Avoid aggressive brush rolls on the pile and fringe.
  • Use a quality rug pad to reduce friction.
  • Rotate the rug every few months so wear is even.

When shedding is not normal

If tufts or whole knots pull out, or bald patches appear, the rug may be tufted rather than hand-knotted. Learn how to tell the difference.

More care tips: How to Clean an Oushak Rug.

Frequently asked questions

Do Oushak rugs shed?

Yes, new hand-knotted wool Oushak rugs shed loose fibers at first. It is normal and decreases over the first weeks to months.

How long do wool rugs shed?

Most shedding happens in the first few weeks to few months, then becomes minimal.

Does shedding mean the rug is low quality?

No. Light shedding is normal for new wool rugs. Tufts or knots pulling out, however, can be a sign of a tufted rather than hand-knotted rug.

Shop hand-knotted Oushak rugs at RUGYFY. Every rug is hand-knotted knot by knot in 100% New Zealand wool by artisan weavers in Bhadohi, India, and offered in 31 sizes including rounds, squares and runners.

Browse all Oushak rugs →  |  Modern Oushak rugs →  |  Request a custom size or color →

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