La Mer Dry Cleaners Shares Expert Insights on Rug Shedding and How to Control It
Juno Beach, FL — La Mer Dry Cleaners, a trusted name in Palm Beach for over three decades, is helping homeowners better understand and manage one of the most common challenges with area rugs — shedding. While some fiber loss is a normal part of a rug’s life, excessive shedding can often be reduced through proper care, maintenance, and expert cleaning.
Understanding Rug Shedding
At some point, even high-quality rugs begin to shed. This natural process occurs when fibers loosen and detach from the rug’s surface. According to the cleaning experts at La Mer Dry Cleaners, shedding is particularly common in natural fiber rugs such as wool, silk, and handwoven textiles, though synthetic rugs can experience similar issues. The level of shedding is influenced by factors including fiber type, weaving technique, and the manufacturing process.
Normal Shedding
New rugs often undergo a “breaking in” phase, during which they shed small amounts of fiber. This period typically lasts from several weeks to a few months and is most noticeable when vacuuming or walking across the rug.
Excessive or Long-Term Shedding
If shedding persists heavily beyond the initial months, or if clumps of fibers are coming loose, it may indicate deeper concerns. La Mer Dry Cleaners notes that inferior fibers, low-quality manufacturing, or improper cleaning practices can all contribute to abnormal shedding.
Simple Ways to Control Rug Shedding at Home
Shedding is a natural part of owning a rug, but homeowners can take meaningful steps to control how much fiber is lost. The specialists at La Mer Dry Cleaners emphasize that smart maintenance and gentle care can extend a rug’s lifespan and preserve its beauty. Improper vacuuming, harsh detergents, or excessive dirt exposure are among the most common causes of unnecessary fiber loss.
1. Vacuum Gently and Correctly
La Mer Dry Cleaners recommends using a vacuum without a beater bar to prevent fibers from being pulled out. Homeowners should opt for low suction or upholstery settings and move slowly across the rug. For delicate or antique pieces, the suction hose attachment is often the safest option.
2. Limit Heavy Foot Traffic
Placing shedding-prone rugs in high-traffic areas accelerates wear. Dirt and debris from shoes can cause fibers to break down faster. The company suggests using rug pads and reserving delicate rugs for low-traffic areas to reduce stress on the material.
3. Address Stains Immediately but Gently
When spills occur, prompt action is essential. Experts advise blotting (never rubbing) with a clean cloth and using mild, eco-friendly detergents. Over-soaking can loosen fibers and worsen shedding. For stubborn stains, La Mer Dry Cleaners recommends consulting a reputable local rug cleaning service.
4. Rotate Rugs Regularly
Rotating rugs every few months ensures even wear, prevents overuse in one area, and limits UV fading. This simple habit helps maintain a consistent appearance and reduces fiber breakage.
5. Protect Against Pets and Furniture Damage
Pets often contribute to fiber pulls by scratching or digging. La Mer Dry Cleaners suggests using pet-friendly rugs and adding furniture pads under heavy items to prevent weaving damage and indentations.
6. Use Environmentally Friendly Products
Harsh chemicals can deteriorate fibers. Homeowners should select pH-balanced detergents specifically designed for wool, silk, or antique textiles. Products containing bleach or high alkalinity are best avoided to preserve structural integrity.
7. Avoid DIY Over-Cleaning
Aggressive scrubbing or improper steam cleaning can strip dyes and loosen weaving. La Mer Dry Cleaners advises checking manufacturer care labels and seeking professional help for deep cleaning to avoid unintentional damage.
8. Be Mindful of Weather Conditions
Humidity can weaken natural fibers and encourage mildew. In humid climates like Florida, using a dehumidifier helps maintain a stable environment and protect rug fibers from softening and excessive shedding.
9. Inspect Rugs Regularly
Seasonal inspections allow homeowners to identify early signs of wear, fading, or pet damage. According to La Mer Dry Cleaners, early detection makes preventive care more effective and minimizes long-term fiber loss.
Rug Shedding Factors That Are Out of Your Control
While many shedding issues can be managed, certain factors are inherent to the rug’s design, material, or environment. La Mer Dry Cleaners emphasizes that understanding these uncontrollable elements helps homeowners set realistic expectations and focus on proper maintenance.
1. Natural Fibers Are Built to Shed
Wool, silk, and cotton rugs naturally contain short strands that loosen over time. Even high-grade or hand-knotted rugs will release fibers as part of their natural aging process.
2. Construction Determines Shedding
Tufted and machine-made rugs tend to shed more due to their adhesive-based construction. Unlike hand-knotted rugs, these designs lack long-term fiber stability — a factor that cannot be changed post-manufacture.
3. New Rugs Have a Break-In Phase
Every new rug undergoes an initial shedding phase as manufacturing residue and loose fibers settle. This phase may last several months, depending on the density and material.
4. Environmental Humidity Weakens Fibers
In humid climates like South Florida, moisture softens fibers and accelerates shedding. While indoor humidity can be managed, regional weather still plays a role in rug performance.
5. Dry Air Makes Fibers Brittle
Conversely, overly dry conditions can cause natural fibers to become brittle and break. Running a humidifier can help, but environmental dryness remains a contributing factor.
6. Rugs Wear Down with Age
All rugs have a finite lifespan. Over time, foot traffic and gravity naturally lead to visible wear and fiber breakage, even with excellent maintenance.
7. Foot Traffic Leaves a Permanent Impact
High-traffic zones like hallways and living rooms experience greater friction, which accelerates fiber loss. Rug pads and rotation can help reduce, but not eliminate, this wear.
8. Pets and Children Add Unpredictable Wear
Claws, toys, and spills from daily family life contribute to uneven wear and shedding. While training and supervision help, such interactions are part of normal use.
9. Some Dyes and Finishes May Hide or Highlight Shedding
Dark or richly colored rugs often make shedding more noticeable. Additionally, certain manufacturing finishes may temporarily bind fibers, leading to visible shedding once they wear off.
10. Manufacturing Residue Must Work Itself Out
Excess fiber fragments and binding agents left from the weaving process take time to release. Regular, gentle vacuuming helps remove residue naturally over the rug’s first months of use.
Optimize Comforters and Rugs with Expert Dry Cleaning from La Mer
La Mer Dry Cleaners invites Palm Beach residents to take the guesswork out of rug care. With over 30 years of expertise, the company offers comprehensive Area Rug Cleaning and Restoration Services, as well as professional garment care, wash and fold laundry, and alterations.
Whether addressing early shedding or restoring aging rugs, La Mer’s team understands how to treat delicate fibers with precision and care.
Visit: 821 Donald Ross Road, Juno Beach, Florida, 33408
Call: (561) 933-5004 to schedule a professional Area Rug Cleaning and Restoration Service.
