how to get folds out of rugs

What Causes of Rug Folds

Many people believe that rug folds are a reflection of a poor quality rug and nothing else. However, even the best quality rugs can be folded and develop wrinkles if they are not properly cared for. Here are four of the most popular ways that rug folds develop. 

• Improper Storage: Your rug may have creases and folds from being stored improperly. In fact, if rugs are folded incorrectly or they are stored in humid/damp environments, they can develop folds and wrinkles. There are certain rug materials like jute, sisal, and other natural fibers that are especially prone to moisture damage, so these rugs are more likely to develop folds and wrinkles when they’re stored in humid areas. 
• Improper Transportation:.Another common way to get folds/wrinkles in your rug is if it is transported haphazardly and isn’t packaged properly. The rug may be folded awkwardly when placed into a moving truck or van, and if the rug is in that position for a long time, it will likely fold under the pressure. This is also another case where the rug may be exposed to humidity along with great pressure, so these wrinkles can be difficult to remove. 

Causes of Rug Folds (Continued)

• Heavy Furniture: Although furniture often holds a rug in place, the furniture can cause wrinkles on the rug if the rug frequently moves atop the rug or is unevenly run over the rug’s surface. This is a common problem in living rooms, since the weight of a sofa is enough to tug on the rug’s fibers and potentially stretch the fabric to create ripples. 
• Natural Wear and Tear: Over time, rugs are simply more likely to fold and ripple with natural wear and tear. Rugs that are placed in high traffic spaces like living rooms and entryways are most likely to form wrinkles, especially if the rug isn’t recommended for high traffic rooms. Fortunately, there are simple methods for preventing a rug from rippling as it faces daily life and traffic. There are also solutions for removing any wrinkles that already exist. 

How to Remove Folds from Rugs

If you notice folds and wrinkles forming in your rug, it is best to treat them as soon as possible to restore your rug to its natural state and ensure that the rug is not a tripping hazard. The methods below are common options for removing rug folds, but before undertaking any of these methods, it is vital to look at your rug’s specific care instructions to see how well they stand up to heat, moisture, and other cleaning methods. 

• Steam Ironing: Steam ironing can help remove deep folds and wrinkles by resetting the fibers of your rug. With this method, place a damp cloth or towel over the creases before steam ironing it. This additional layer of cloth will protect the rug’s fibers from direct contact with the heat, and the soft moisture/heat combination will also help soften the rug back into place. 

• Weighted Objects: Weighted objects like trunks, boxes, and heavy books can help flatten any folds and creases in the rug. However, this method does take time, patience, and a large amount of space. Be sure to place the items over the wrinkled/folded portions as well as other areas of the rug to evenly distribute weight and ensure that the entire rug will be flattened. Leave the rug under the weight for several days to see a difference. 

How to remove folds from rugs (continued)

• Reverse Rolling: Reverse rolling is often used with new rugs with creases, but you can attempt this solution with old rugs as well. Flip your rug over on the floor and then roll the entire rug opposite of any natural curls. If your folds are particularly severe, you may need to keep the rug rolled for several days. 
• Professional Cleaning: A professional cleaner can help remove your rug’s folds and creases through their specialized steam and heat cleaners. With that, they are able to better address the rug’s folds and creases to thoroughly flatten hard-set creases.