Cowhide Rugs Australia Care & Maintenance Guide

Are you the proud owner of an exquisite cowhide rug regally installed in one of your fabulous Australian homes? And perhaps you are ragging your brain with questions about keeping its glory intact for all times? Or are some homegrown flaws showing up on it, and you are still contemplating how to deal with them?

You’re really not alone. Cowhide rugs have become one of the most sought-after products in Australia, and really, for good reason. The rugs are ruggedly handsome and naturally elegant and bestow a rustic charm to any room. But like any high-quality item, these rugs really need a little tender loving care to remain pristine. The good news is that once you are well acquainted with the do’s and don’ts, cowhide rug care is not too difficult.

Why Good Cowhide Rug Care is Important

Understanding why good cowhide care is so important starts by appreciating what exactly makes these pieces special. Unlike synthetic rugs, cowhide is a natural product with genuine leather backing and real animal hair. This means it responds to its environment and requires specific attention.

With a cowhide rug of decent quality, you are paying for something that could easily last for more than a couple of decades, provided it is well maintained. If poorly maintained the surface could suffer drying, cracking, shedding, or perhaps be put to rest via permanent effects. Moreover, the peculiarities of the Australian climate would only serve as the proverbial nail in the coffin, making that bit of regular upkeep extremely important.

Besides, a well-cared-for cowhide rug looks an awful lot better. The natural shine remains vivid, the hair is soft and lush, and those lovely natural patterns really stand out. A little cleaning done every week is worth all the extra years of life and any outward cabinet look.

Cowhide Rug Care: Daily Maintenance & Weekly Maintenance

Routine Cleaning for Cowhide Rugs: Basic Tips

Cowhide rug care, when consistently done, very gently is the key to success. For day-to-day maintenance, the best thing to do is a quick shake outside. Just take the rug outdoors and forcefully shake it to release dust, crumbs, and loose debris that might have collected. It is this very act of shaking that helps to keep the dust particles from settling deep down onto the hair.

Weekly, get the vacuum out and work around the rug with the upholstery attachment. Always vacuum down in the direction of hair growth; never back against it. This preserves the natural graining and decreases shedding. Keep the suction on low to medium power; this way, it doesn’t pull too much hair.

How to Clean a Cowhide Rug?

For cowhide rugs in general maintenance, it will be good for under-vacuum once a week in heavy traffic areas. Lesser suicides could just get out of vacuuming every second week. Keep an eye out for visible dust bunnies- when you see them, act.

Depending on the kind of use, shampooing will take every 1 to 2 months. If you have pets or children, those intervals might be shortened. Watch how your rug looks and feels-it’ll tell you when it’s time to give it some extra attention.

The Most Common Cowhide Rug Problems and How to Solve Them

How to Stop Cowhide Rug From Curling

Curling edges are among the bosom problems a cowhide rug owner can experience. Learning to stop cowhide rugs from curling begins with prevention. Make sure the rug is flat from the word go and never place heavy furniture just on the edges. 

If the curling has already begun, then use heavyweights like book clamping weights for 2-3 days until the edges are straightened. Alternatively, you can flip the rug and roll it up in the opposite direction of the curl and leave it overnight. Sprinkling some fine mist with water on the rug before rolling could help, but keep the moisture to a minimum. 

Dealing With Shedding and Losing Fur

Some shedding is entirely normal with new cowhide rugs. Regularly vacuuming in the direction of hair growth should prevent most loose hairs. Excessive shedding, however, may indicate that the rug is too dry and is in need of some conditioning.

A leather conditioner should be applied sparingly to the backing of the cowhide every couple of months to keep the hide supple and prevent hair loss. Do not condition the hair side of the rug, though, as this will attract dirt and make the surface greasy.

Keep Your Cowhide Rug Looking Good for Years to Come

Keeping a cowhide rug requires the gentlest of attentions over long periods. The rug will remain in stunning condition for decades with routine vacuuming, immediate attention to spills, correct choice of cleaning product, and protection from harsh Australian conditions.

Remember that cowhide is a natural material that looks better as it ages, provided it has been well cared for. These little efforts every week will extend some value to your rug. 

Now you can handle anything from routine care to peculiar problems with your cowhide rug confidently, knowing what to do. Treat your cowhide well, and in turn, it will give beauty that remains luster for a lifetime. Happy rug caring!