How do you clean a wool rug?

If you don't have a machine-washable rug, you can remove minor stains with a wool-specific cleaning solution and blot spills with a clean cloth. Depending on the weave, you might be able to gently scrub the surface with a sponge and a mild soapy solution. Professional cleaning may be necessary in some cases. But luckily, Martindelcampo says, "You only need to deep-clean a wool rug once a year."

The 11 Best Wool Rugs, Editor-Approved

The Better Homes & Gardens Suzani Muted Green Medallion Wool Indoor Area Rug under furniture — The Spruce

Whether you’re in the market for a low-pile wool rug suitable for high-traffic areas or an ultra-cozy shag option, the material is a reliably durable option for most households. We especially love the natural stain resistance of the wool, thanks to the lanolin coating on the material's fibers.

We've recently tested a handful of wool rugs at home, and our biggest learning is that a wool rug's construction can make or break your overall experience. While we generally enjoyed all of the wool rugs we tested, those with a looped surface were easier to vacuum if they had a thick backing fabric. Unstructured wool area rugs (which lacked a backing), whether tufted or looped, were too easily sucked into the beater brush on our vacuums, making for a frustrating care experience.

Despite some of the care quirks of owning a wool rug, the material can last for years and won't lose its density like synthetic rugs.

Tip From The Lab

Before diving into all of the perks of this category—stain resistance, general durability, and insulation, just to name a few—we recommend being aware that all wool rugs are prone to shedding. The amount of fibers that your rug sheds will lessen with time; most manufacturers generally suggest after 6-9 months.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Revival Tschudi Washable Wool Rug at Revivalrugs.com

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Best Value:

Better Homes & Gardens Beige Plaid Wool Indoor Area Rug at Walmart

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Best Size Options:

West Elm Custom Wool Rib Rug at West Elm $49

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Best Textured:

Article Clem Arch Cream Rug at Article.com

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Best Patterned:

Revival Grier Wool Rug at Revivalrugs.com

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Best Runner:

AllModern Danette Wool Rust Rug at Allmodern.com $125

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Best Looped:

Rugs USA Skye Modern High-Low Rug at Rugsusa.com

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Best Blend:

Rugs USA Softest Knit Wool Rug at Rugsusa.com

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Best High-Pile:

West Elm Souk Wool Rug at West Elm $85

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Best Shag:

Quince Saje Wool Shag Rug at Quince.com

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Best Overall

Revival Tschudi Washable Wool Rug

PHOTO: The Spruce

View on Revivalrugs.com

We tested the Revival Tschudi Washable Wool Rug in a primary bedroom and were most impressed by its texture. While we don't plan on lying down on this rug (wool rugs are quite itchy just like wool sweaters), we loved its soft, dense pile when walking on it with bare feet. We also love the visual interest that the varied pile height adds to the solid color.

This wool rug is also washable, so it has a very pliable design, which is both a wonderful feature and a nuisance. We love that we have the option to take this rug to dry cleaners with industrial machines, if a really major spill were to occur. However, the pliable backing on this rug made it frustrating to vacuum. If our vacuum got too close to the edge of the rug, the brush head would suck up the edge, which also can misshape and stretch the rug over time.

The Revival product page warns against using a rotating brush-head vacuum on this rug, but we didn't think a non-rotating head cleaned the surface well enough. We lowered the suction power on our upright vacuum and used the rotating brush head setting, and we don't think it has caused any major issues to the texture of the rug. If anything, it helps perk up the fibers after a week of light foot traffic.

We also opted not to use a rug pad under this rug because it was anchored by a bed frame and nightstands. However, a rug pad may make vacuuming the rug easier and Revival does highly recommend using a rug pad because of the pliable backing.

_{Shape: Rectangular, runner | Available Sizes: 3 x 5 feet up to 12 x 16 feet | Pile Height: 0.75 inches}

PHOTO: The Spruce
PHOTO: The Spruce
PHOTO: The Spruce
PHOTO: The Spruce

Best Value

Better Homes & Gardens Beige Plaid Wool Indoor Area Rug

PHOTO: The Spruce

View on Walmart

Looped wool rugs are a great option for low-traffic areas of a home, as they're easy to vacuum. For this reason, and paired with its versatility, we especially loved the Better Homes & Gardens Beige Plaid Wool Indoor Area Rug, which we placed under a couch in a finished basement (Better Homes & Gardens is owned by The Spruce’s parent company, Dotdash Meredith). We thought this rug looked similar to styles available from other brands for triple the price.

It also provided a nice cushioned surface against the basement's tile flooring. We did not use a rug pad underneath since it was weighed down by a couch and experienced no bunching when we vacuumed its surface.

While we're unsure how the looped surface would stand up to pet claws, we walked across it wearing shoes, and the pile never flattened. Overall, we were impressed with this rug's performance and loved its minimalist pattern, especially considering the great price point.

_{Shape: Rectangular | Available Sizes: 5 x 7 feet, 94.5 x 118.11 inches | Pile Height: 0.59 inches}

Another Rug To Consider

We also tested the Better Homes & Gardens Suzani Muted Green Medallion Wool Indoor Area Rug, but we weren't in love with its varied pile height. Unlike the Revival Tschudi Washable Wool Rug, this rug's looped texture variation was stiff. It held up well during our testing but would likely be best for a low-traffic room.

PHOTO: The Spruce
PHOTO: The Spruce
PHOTO: The Spruce
PHOTO: The Spruce

Best Size Options

West Elm Custom Wool Rib Rug

PHOTO: West Elm

$49 at West Elm

If you’re looking for a rug that fits your space perfectly, the West Elm Custom Wool Rib Rug is tough to beat. You can choose the dimensions that work best for you, whether you’re looking for a rectangle, square, runner, or round rug. You can choose sizes ranging from 2 x 2 feet to 11 x 16 feet.

The wool rug has a 0.5-inch pile height, which feels exceptionally soft underfoot. We also like that you can choose from four neutral hues to suit your space. Its simple look and ribbed texture offer sophistication and versatility, making this rug a great pick no matter your design style.

^{Shape: Rectangular, square, runner, round | Available Sizes: Custom sizes | Pile Height: 0.5 inches}

Best Textured

Article Clem Arch Cream Rug

PHOTO: Article

View on Article.com

Our number one pick is the Clem Arch Cream Rug from Article, which is a versatile option that’s both functional and stylish. The hand-loomed arch design offers subtle movement and texture to your space, without being visually distracting.

With a 0.5-inch pile height, it’s also supremely soft underfoot. This is a medium-pile rug, meaning it offers a nice balance between comfort and durability. It’s thicker and more plush than a low-pile rug, but can also withstand more foot traffic than a high-pile rug. This makes it a great choice for medium-traffic areas, such as guest rooms or basements.

Be sure to pair the Arch Cream Rug with a rug pad to keep it in place, but you’ll have to purchase one separately. Although the versatile cream color is suitable for many spaces and design styles, it may not be as practical for dining rooms or areas that may see accidental stains.

Additionally, we wish it came in more than two sizes. You should also expect some mild shedding with this rug, but this tends to be standard across the board.

^{Shape: Rectangular | Available Sizes: 8 x 10 feet, 9 x 12 feet | Pile Height: 0.5 inches}

Best Patterned

Revival Grier Wool Rug

PHOTO: Revival

View on Revivalrugs.com

The Grier Hand-Knotted Wool Rug from Revival is another excellent choice if you prefer a distinctive pattern in a wool rug. The rich colors and nostalgic pattern will look unique and eye-catching in any space, making it one of our favorite picks. The 1970s-inspired design features raised textures and hues including pink, orange, gray, and cream.

Aside from its stylish look, this rug is woven from New Zealand wool, which is known for its softness and long, durable fibers. It’s also hand-loomed on a cotton foundation for added durability. While its 0.5-inch pile height isn’t the most durable pick for areas with high foot traffic, we like that the pattern disguises stains and imperfections quite well.

^{Shape: Rectangular | Available Sizes: 5 x 8 feet, 6 x 9 feet, 8 x 10 feet, 9 x 12 feet, 10 x 14 feet | Pile Height: 0.5 inches}

Best Runner

AllModern Danette Wool Rust Rug

PHOTO: AllModern

$125 at Allmodern.com

Ideal for hallways, entryways, and kitchens, a runner protects high-traffic areas and creates a cohesive look throughout your home. This rug from AllModern is handwoven with a high pile that offers exceptional comfort. It’s available in 23 different sizes, making it easy to choose dimensions that suit your space.

We like its rich rust color and unique design, which includes notes of blue, white, and cream accents. The bold yet inviting rug can complement many design aesthetics including contemporary and bohemian styles. This rug style is also available in a deep blue color if that’s more your speed.

^{Shape: Rectangular, runner, square, round | Available Sizes: 3 x 5 feet up to 2 feet 3 inches x 14 feet | Pile Height: 0.78 inches}

Best Looped

Rugs USA Skye Modern High-Low Rug

PHOTO: Rugs USA

View on Rugsusa.com

A textured rug can enhance your space by creating visual interest while tying in your existing decor. The Skye Modern High-Low Rug from Rugs USA offers a unique yet understated look, featuring a neutral color scheme and varied weave. The result? A rug that’s both versatile and timeless, meshing seamlessly with a wide variety of decor styles.

While it's not 100 percent wool, the only other material is cotton, so it's still composed of natural fibers. The soft and cozy flatweave has a 0.6-inch pile height that makes it supremely comfortable. The rug is also pet-friendly, which we appreciate. Choose from 13 different sizes in a variety of shapes to suit your needs.

^{Shape: Rectangular, runner, square, round | Available Sizes: 3 x 5 feet up to 12 x 15 feet | Pile Height: 0.6 inches | Material: 90 percent wool, 10 percent cotton}

Best Blend

Rugs USA Softest Knit Wool Rug

PHOTO: Rugs USA

View on Rugsusa.com

The Softest Knit Wool Rug from Rugs USA is another great option made from both wool and cotton for an ultra-soft, exceptionally cozy rug. The plush rug offers a familiar knit texture, adding a warm and inviting feel to any room.

The high-pile rug has an impressively comfy 0.75-inch pile height. The handmade material is also pet-friendly and easy to clean with a dry cloth. It’s available in a wide range of sizes and shapes, including hard-to-find options like round and oval. Choose from 10 different colors, including gray, pink, light blue, and off-white.

^{Shape: Rectangular, runner, square, round, oval | Available Sizes: 2 x 3 feet up to 12 x 15 feet | Pile Height: 0.75 inches | Material: 80 percent wool, 20 percent cotton}

Best High-Pile

West Elm Souk Wool Rug

PHOTO: West Elm

$85 at West Elm

If you prefer the fuzzy look and feel of a high-pile rug, we recommend the Souk Wool Rug from West Elm. It’s the thickest option on this list, with a pile height of 1.5 inches.

This rug is made with comfort in mind with its plushness and soft texture. However, a high-pile rug may not be ideal if you prioritize durability, as they won’t hold up to frequent foot traffic like lower pile options.

It features a geometric, Moroccan-inspired pattern with hand-braided tassels on the end for a decorative flair. Plus, its minimalist aesthetic will look great in many spaces, from bedrooms to living rooms. Choose from three neutral colors and eight different sizes (including two runner options).

^{Shape: Rectangular, runner | Available Sizes: 4 x 6 feet up to 10 x 14 feet | Pile Height: 1.5 inches}

Best Shag

Quince Saje Wool Shag Rug

PHOTO: Quince

View on Quince.com

Another great shag option is this rug from Quince, which is made from a cozy blend of wool and cotton. Offering a sophisticated yet familiar look, this rug’s neutral tones are highlighted by its contrasting borders. The fringe edges are also a nice touch, adding a subtle flair to the design.

With a 0.75-inch pile height, this rug feels comfortable and cushiony enough to place in your living room or bedroom. While it’s only available in one colorway, you can snag this versatile piece in five sizes, including one runner option.

^{Shape: Rectangular, runner | Available Sizes: 3 x 5 feet, 2 feet 6 inches x 7 feet, 5 x 8 feet, 8 x 10 feet, 9 x 12 feet | Pile Height: 0.75 inches | Material: 88 percent wool, 12 percent cotton}

Best Color Options

Pottery Barn Capitola Wool Rug

Pottery Barn Capitola Hand-Tufted Wool Rug

PHOTO: Pottery Barn

$149 at Pottery Barn

We also like Pottery Barn's Capitola Wool Rug. Hand-tufted by artisans in India, the all-wool design features a half-inch pile height. The Capitola has a grippy, flexible backing that helps minimize odors while extending its lifespan, even with frequent use.

The rug’s calming pattern is complemented by its textured surface and muted tones. We love that it’s available in seven different muted colors, including light blue, indigo, and ivory. Choose from 12 different sizes in a variety of shapes to suit your space.

^{Shape: Rectangular, runner, round, square | Available Sizes: 3 x 5 feet up to 10 x 14 feet | Pile Height: 0.5 inches}

Final Verdict

The Revival Tschudi Washable Wool Rug is our overall best wool rug because it's durable, plush, and versatile. The Better Homes & Gardens Beige Plaid Wool Indoor Area Rug is a well-priced wool rug we love for lower-traffic areas. The dense, looped pile can hold its own against a vacuum, and we didn't even need a rug pad.

What to Look for in a Wool Rug

A Pile Height That Suits Your Needs

The right pile height for you will depend on your preferences and where you plan to place your rug. Pile height refers to the length of the fibers on the rug, and certain retailers may vary in terms of how they differentiate between low, medium, and high piles.

Low-pile rugs include any options with a 0.25-inch pile height or less. They are the most durable of the bunch, as they are easier to maintain and tend to shed less. That being said, they tend to be less comfortable than rugs with higher piles. While none of the options on our list currently fall into this category, we recommend considering a low-pile rug for high-traffic areas like entryways, hallways, and mudrooms.

Medium-pile rugs, like the best textured Article Clem Arch Cream Rug, are suitable for most spaces. These rugs range from around 0.26-inch to 0.5-inch pile heights, offering both comfort and durability. These are the most versatile types of rugs and are ideal for a wide range of spaces, including living rooms and basements. While they may require more frequent upkeep compared to low-pile rugs, we think they’re worth it if you prioritize comfort underfoot.

High-pile rugs, like the West Elm Souk Wool Rug (best high-pile), have the longest fibers of the bunch at 0.51 inches or more. They have the plushest feel, with an especially soft and inviting look. They aren’t the most suitable for high-traffic areas, but may be better for rooms where relaxation is the priority. They tend to show dirt easily, so be prepared to clean your high-pile rug more regularly.

The Right Size and Shape for Your Space

Choosing the right size is crucial when buying an area rug, so measure your space carefully before ordering one. The general rule of thumb is that either all furniture legs should fit on top, or just the front two legs of each piece of furniture.

In dining rooms, ensure that all chair legs fit entirely on the rug, even when they're pulled out. In bedrooms, the rug should go about halfway under the bed and extend a couple of feet on each side past the foot.

In addition to your standard rectangular area rug, round (circular or oval), square, or runner rugs may be a good addition to your space.

For hard-to-find sizes and shapes, consider purchasing a custom rug. Our best size options pick, the West Elm Custom Wool Rib Rug, allows you to select the perfect dimensions for your space.

Fiber Blends That Are Durable and Comfortable

Wool is naturally soft, insulating, moisture-wicking, and odor-resistant, making it a great material for area rugs. According to designer Tina Martindelcampo of Tina Martin Interiors, wool is also exceptionally durable and resilient, often outlasting acrylic, nylon, and other synthetic rug fibers. However, wool is more prone to shedding than its synthetic counterpart.

You can also find wool area rugs blended with other materials, such as cotton, viscose, and rayon. These fibers are often naturally derived and may improve a rug's softness, though it depends on the composition, thickness, weave, and specific textiles used. If you're looking for a wool-blend rug, we especially recommend the best wool-blend Rugs USA Softest Knit Wool Rug, which is made from wool and cotton.

FAQ

How do you clean a wool rug?

If you don't have a machine-washable rug, you can remove minor stains with a wool-specific cleaning solution and blot spills with a clean cloth. Depending on the weave, you might be able to gently scrub the surface with a sponge and a mild soapy solution. Professional cleaning may be necessary in some cases. But luckily, Martindelcampo says, "You only need to deep-clean a wool rug once a year."

One More Thing

As we mentioned, wool area rugs are prone to shedding, but there are several ways to remedy this. "One way to keep the shedding in check is by brushing your wool rug outside using a stiff brush," says Martindelcampo. Regular vacuuming with a brush-free, non-rotating head can also help minimize loose fibers during those first few months.

While these rugs may seem daunting and are certainly an investment, they will last for years and won't lose their plush texture compared to synthetic rugs. "Wool is a hypoallergenic textile and is naturally stain-resistant and flame-resistant, and it can look clean even when it is not," adds Martindelcampo.

Why Trust The Spruce?

This article was written by Bianca Pineda, a writer who specializes in all things home decor at The Spruce. As a certified homebody with an eclectic design style, Pineda understands how a good rug can add both style and comfort to your space. She prefers a plush, medium-pile rug that’s both durable and soft, which is especially important considering how often she sits on her New York City apartment floor to eat dinner.

Our Experts:

Tina Martindelcampo, interior designer and owner of Tina Martin Interiors
Emma Phelps, editor at The Spruce

The 20 Best Places to Buy Rugs Online

In This Article

Best Overall

Revival Tschudi Washable Wool Rug

Best Value

Better Homes & Gardens Beige Plaid Wool Indoor Area Rug

Best Size Options

West Elm Custom Wool Rib Rug

Best Textured

Article Clem Arch Cream Rug

Best Patterned

Revival Grier Wool Rug

Best Runner

AllModern Danette Wool Rust Rug

Best Looped

Rugs USA Skye Modern High-Low Rug

Best Blend

Rugs USA Softest Knit Wool Rug

Best High-Pile

West Elm Souk Wool Rug

Best Shag

Quince Saje Wool Shag Rug

Best Color Options

Pottery Barn Capitola Wool Rug

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