Ideas & Advice > Rug Size Guide > How to Clean a Braided Area Rug

Rug Size Guides

How to Clean a Braided Area Rug

Braided area rugs are beautiful accents for high traffic and low traffic spaces throughout the home. Even if the rugs are used in low traffic spaces, they still can get dirty from accidental stains, dirt tracked in from outside, or other accidents. Fortunately, these rugs can be easily cleaned and maintained to fit your home’s aesthetic and lifestyle.

Learn More About Cleaning Braided Rugs

  1. Regular Cleaning
  2. Spot Cleaning
  3. Deep Cleaning
  4. Frequently Asked Questions

Regular Cleaning

The first step in cleaning your braided rug is through simple, routine cleaning. Shaking the rug out or beating it over the washline can help remove dirt from the rug’s surface and deepest fibers. After that is done, you can vacuum the rug to remove any lingering dirt and debris. Braided rugs are often reversible, so you should vacuum both sides of the rug to ensure it is clean.

Another method of cleaning your rug is to use a soft cleaning brush to gently scrub the rug. If the entire rug needs to be cleaned, scrub the surface with a soft brush dipped in soapy water and lightly scrub the front and back of the rug. Rinse with water, and then blot the rug dry with towels. It is vital to dry the rug completely to avoid rot, mold, or mildew from damaging your braided rug’s fibers.

Queen Size Runner Rug

Spot Cleaning

If you are treating a stain or specific spot of your rug, then you can focus on that specific area with cleaning. We still recommend doing the basic cleaning first to remove dirt and debris; that way, you can focus on cleaning the spot without lingering dirt in the way. After that is done, there are several approved ways to clean your rug. 

One formula for spot cleaning braided rugs is a mixture of water and white vinegar. Mix equal parts lukewarm water and vinegar and then apply to the rug through a gentle brush or toothbrush. Scrub the stain thoroughly but gently. This method will not only clean that area, but it will also help remove any odors. 

Deep Cleaning

Deep cleaning can be done to bring your rug back to life after years of use and dirt build-up. When deep cleaning your braided rug, you should take it outside and shake out loose dirt and debris. You can even vacuum it to help remove those loose specks of dirt to make the next step easier. After you’ve shaken out as much dirt as possible, hose down your entire rug. Oftentimes, just the pressure of the water is enough to give your rug a deep, complete cleaning. It is vital to completely dry your rug after it’s soaked through to ensure that it doesn’t grow mold or mildew. If it is a wool braided rug, it will take a long time to dry, so be patient and rotate/flip the rug periodically to ensure the entire rug is dry.

If you completed this process and are not happy with the cleaning, consider repeating the process with a specialized cleaning product. Commercial wool rug cleaners are one way to deep clean the entire rug or spot treat isolated stains.

Round rug for queen size bed

For more tips and ideas, join our mailing list.

Join Now

Frequently Asked Questions


Can you vacuum a braided rug?

Yes, you can vacuum a braided rug. In fact, it’s highly encouraged! Regular vacuuming is an essential part of removing surface dirt and maintaining the life of your rug. One thing to note is the type of attachment on your vacuum. Beater brush attachments may damage the rug, so avoid using that particular attachment on a braided or rope rug. 

Can you steam clean a braided rug?

Wool braided rugs can easily be steam-cleaned to rejuvenate them. When using a steam cleaner, be sure to keep the cleaner at least six inches away from the rug to avoid damaging the fibers. This method is effective as the steam works its way between the fibers and removes any bacteria, which thoroughly cleans the rug and removes odors. 

Can you wash a braided rug in the washing machine?

In general, braided rugs can be cleaned in washing machines. Be sure to check your rug’s specific tag for cleaning details and double check that your specific rug is a machine washable braided rug. Wash according to the care instructions on the tag and allow it to naturally dry as opposed to using the dryer.


Cleaning wool or cotton braided rugs is a surprisingly easy process with many ways to care for it daily and in the long term. With the methods detailed above, you can now care for your braided area rugs and easily clean them at home.

Protection Information
Protect against common mishaps, such as:
Accidental rips, tears
Accidental stains from food and beverage or human and pet bodily fluids
Delamination, loose threads and torn seams
Minor burn and heat marks (up to 1 inch)
Protection Plan also includes:
  • No deductibles or hidden fees
  • Receipt-less claims process
  • 24/7 customer support

See the full Terms and Conditions here.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I purchase the Protection Plan?

It’s as easy as adding the Protection Plan - along with the product you want covered - to your cart and checking out!

What happens after I purchase the Protection Plan?

Once you purchase coverage, you will receive a welcome email, giving you access to your dedicated portal (where you will be able to view your coverage information and file a claim).

When does my plan coverage begin?

Accidental damage coverage begins day 1 of purchase, while defects in materials and workmanship are covered as soon as the 30-day return period expires.

How do I file a claim?

You can file a claim by going to getmulberry.com/login and by logging into your portal. Or you can simply contact the customer support team 24/7 via [email protected].

What happens after my claim is approved?

If damage is beyond repair, Mulberry will replace your product or will reimburse you for your product. If a repair is needed, Mulberry will coordinate technician cleaning or repair. Mulberry will repair your product up to its original retail price.

What if I return my product or want to cancel my Protection Plan?

You are able to cancel your Protection Plan by contacting Mulberry or by logging into your customer portal. Within the first 30 days of purchase, you will receive a full refund.

What if I exchange my product for another?

You can exchange your product for an identical product, without it affecting your warranty purchase. If you exchange your product for a different item, you will need to cancel your existing coverage and purchase a new plan, as coverage is tied to the specific product with which it was purchased.

What countries is coverage available in?

Currently, coverage is only available in the United States, including Hawaii, Alaska and Puerto Rico.

Are there any coverage exclusions?

The Protection Plan does not cover damage that occurs during product delivery, pet damage (other than bodily fluids), odor elimination, intentional abuse of the product, or theft or loss of the product.

Can I purchase the Protection Plan for someone else?

Yes. All protection plans are transferable in ownership.

Coverage by

Mulberry is a best-in-class extended warranty provider that works with retailers to provide customers with accidental damage protection on their purchased products.

The Mulberry Protection Plan is a 1- and 5-year extended coverage program that protects against accidental damage to your rug.

Mulberry provides a quick, online claims process and does not require a receipt to file a claim.

THANK YOU!


Your discount code is on its way.
;