How can I remove odors from a rug?

If a client reaches out regarding an odor from their rug, kindly recommend airing it out in a well-ventilated area to help eliminate any lingering smells that may have been absorbed during packaging or transit. If the odor persists, they can also try lightly vacuuming the rug or placing it in indirect sunlight for a few hours.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Ventilate Immediately
   Unroll the rug in a well-ventilated space as soon as it arrives. Use fans to circulate fresh air around the rug—this is an essential first step to allow trapped odors to begin dissipating.

2. Place in Direct Sunlight (if possible)
   If weather permits, place the rug outdoors in direct sunlight for a full day. Sunlight and fresh air work together to naturally neutralize odors and help evaporate residual moisture.

3. Apply Baking Soda
   Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda across the face of the rug. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that helps absorb lingering smells.

4. Let It Sit Overnight
   Allow the baking soda to sit on the rug overnight, giving it ample time to absorb moisture and odor from the fibers.

5. Vacuum Thoroughly
   The next day, vacuum the rug thoroughly to remove the baking soda. Use a vacuum appropriate for wool rugs to avoid damaging the fibers.

6. Repeat If Needed
   Some rugs may need more than one cycle. If the smell persists, repeat the above steps. Often, just airing the rug out is enough; in stronger cases, combining ventilation, sunlight, and baking soda will resolve the issue.