How to Clean Your Cowhide Rug Like a Pro

5 Tips for Cleaning and Care of Cowhide Rugs

Cowhide rugs work great in all areas including the highest traffic areas of your home due to the durable innate properties of the hide.  Cowhides rugs are resistant to stains and are surprisingly easy to maintain and care for and can last for many many years without replacement.  

1. Shaking the Rug

Going outside and shaking the rug or hitting it against a wall to get out all of the dust is a very effective way to quickly get off all of the surface particles off the rug.  Don't worry, the hair won't fall out, our hides are extremely durable!

2. Vacuum Cleaning

The easiest and most effective way to perform routine maintenance on your rug is to simply vacuum your cowhide to remove any surface dust and dirt.

 

3. Steam Cleaning

Steam cleaning is very popular for giving your rug the occasional deep clean and making it look as fresh and new as the day you bought it.  Always make sure to vacuum the rug first for the most effective deep clean.  Use the steam cleaner in the direction of the hair making sure not to get the fibers too saturated.  Simply allow the the rug to air dry after.

4. Removing Grease Stains 

Grease stains on your rug? Have no fear!  Start by gently scraping away the grease as best as possible with a brush, or anything with hard bristles.  We have found that using a small amount of eucalyptus oil on top of the stain helps to remove the stain.  Simply apply a small amount of the oil and carefully rub it away with a dry, clean cloth.  If you can't get the stain out, contact a professional rug cleaning service and they will get it out.

5. Removing Food Stains from your Cowhide Rug

 Food stains can be easily removed from your cowhide rug by using a brush or butter knife while carefully and gently scraping in the same direction as the rug fibers.  If the stain is still showing, getting a damp washcloth with a small amount of non-alkaline soap or water mixed with white organic vinegar will get many deep food stains to come right out.  Simply rub the area with the rug and dry it with a towel or dry washcloth.

 

As you can see, cleaning and care of cowhide rugs is very easy especially comparing to other rugs due to the fact that these are a natural animal product.  Very simple and common sense cleaning methods will keep your  cowhide rug looking as clean and fresh as the day it arrived in your home!


8 comments


  • Lucy

    Hello @Amy Harrub, yes a fabric protector such as Scotch Guard should be able to repel stains before it occurs. As well we recommend getting the cowhide cleaner to help combat any pet accidents that may occur.


  • Lucy

    Hello Gary Bertone, our cowhide cleaner should be the best option as it has a lemon scent. Our cowhides do not typically come with any odors, if you need any further assistance please email supportcowhidesdirect.com for more immediate attention.


  • Gary Bertone

    I just received a pillow and it has a pretty strong chemical smell. what is the best way to get that out. I have let it sit out but still smells – would something like steaming help? thanks, Gary


  • Amy Harrub

    I have an elderly cat who throws up a lot and never just on the floor it’s ALWAYS on a rug or my bedspread. I just bought a beautiful salt & pepper cow hide to lay on my floor can I use scotchgard for rug & carpet to spray over my hide to help protect it from dark brown cat puke? I spent a lot of money on this rug & do not want my cat to ruin it if I can’t use scotchgard is there anything else you could recommend or should I just leave it bare?
    Thank you,
    Amy Harrub


  • Esther

    Can’t you just hose it down?


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