The Truth About Rug Shedding: Why It Happens and How to Care for Your Handmade Rug
Shedding is a common concern among rug buyers, often leading to confusion and hesitation—especially when investing in a high-quality handmade piece. At Nitya Exports, we believe that understanding the reasons behind rug shedding and knowing the right care tips can empower you to keep your handknotted rug looking stunning for years.
What Causes Rug Shedding?
All rugs with cut pile—especially new handknotted rugs—may shed some fibers initially. This is a natural result of the manufacturing process, even with luxury materials like New Zealand wool and bamboo silk. Tiny loose fibers remain after weaving and surface finishing.
Handmade vs. Machine-Made: Handknotted rugs shed less over time because their fibers are tightly secured. In contrast, machine-made rugs often shed longer and more, as the tufts are often glued or loosely attached.
Material Quality: Premium, long-staple wools (like New Zealand wool) or natural silks result in less shedding than synthetic or lower-grade fibers.
How Much Shedding is Normal?
The First Few Weeks: Some visible shedding is completely normal for your new rug, especially in high-traffic zones or under furniture.
Gradual Decrease: With regular, gentle vacuuming, shedding will noticeably reduce within a few weeks.
Long-Term: After the initial settling period, quality handknotted rugs barely shed at all.
Expert Tips to Reduce and Manage Shedding
Vacuum your rug with the suction-only setting (no beater bar) once or twice a week for the first month. This gently removes loose fibers without damaging the pile.
Avoid aggressive vacuuming: Strong brush rollers can pull fibers from the rug.
Rotate your rug: Even out wear and exposure to minimize uneven shedding.
Spot clean gently: Use mild detergent and blot any spills—never scrub.
Keep away harsh chemicals: These weaken natural fibers and exacerbate shedding.
5 Myths & Facts About Rug Shedding
Myths:
- Shedding means poor quality
- only wool rugs shed
- vaccuming makes it worse
- shedding never stops
- cotton backed rugs dont shed
Facts:
- handknotted rugs always shed a little at first- its a sign of authenticity, noyt inferior quality.
- All cut-pile rugs shed, but quality handspun fibers minimize this over time.
- Gentle, regular vacuuming actually helps reduce and end shedding faster.
- Properly cared-for handmade rugs will shed less and less, often stopping completely after a few months.
- Cotton backing is for structure, not anti-shedding—fiber quality and weaving technique matter much more.
Investing in a Low-Shedding, High-Quality Rug
At Nitya Exports, our handknotted rugs are created with exceptional care, using long-staple New Zealand wool and bamboo silk. Our Tibetan-knotted techniques ensure tight, secure fibers that shed less than mass-market alternatives. We also offer detailed care instructions with every purchase, so you can enjoy the beauty and luxury of your rug for decades.
Final Takeaway
Rug shedding is a temporary and natural part of owning a handmade rug—especially one crafted from fine, natural materials. With the right care habits and maintenance, you’ll enjoy a beautiful, plush floo covering with minimal fuss. For lasting luxury, choose handknotted rugs from Nitya Exports—where quality meets craftsmanship.
Looking for a premium, low-shedding rug for your home? contact us for custom options today!