Wool rugs, explained
What counts as wool, the label, and wool care.
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What counts as wool
The FTC says the term wool may be used for fiber from the fleece of the sheep or lamb, or the hair of the Angora goat, Cashmere goat, camel, alpaca, llama, or vicuna.
Which law covers the label
The FTC lists "Carpets, rugs or mats, which are covered by the Textile Act and Rules" among products not covered by the Wool Act even if they contain wool. Textile Act labels list fiber content, country of origin, and the identity of the manufacturer or another business.
Blends on the label
The FTC says fibers are listed by percentage of weight, in order of predominance. It allows a tolerance of 3 percent on fiber percentages, but none when a label says a product is made of one fiber.
Heat and humidity
CCI says heat causes wool to lose its natural oils, which weakens the threads, and that high humidity also damages fibres and may cause colours to bleed.
Moths and carpet beetles
CCI says some moths and carpet beetles like to eat away at wool and other fibres. It says: "Regular vacuuming will help discourage this problem." Our carpet beetles guide covers the signs and what extension services say to do.
Sources: FTC, Threading Your Way Through the Labeling Requirements Under the Textile and Wool Acts; Canadian Conservation Institute, Basic care: Carpets and rugs.
FAQ
General information only. Keep walking paths clear. The CDC's home fall prevention checklist for older adults says to remove throw rugs, or use double-sided tape or a non-slip backing so the rugs won't slip. Follow the maker's label and instructions for any rug, rug pad, tape, or cleaning product. If someone falls and is hurt, get medical help. In an emergency, call 911.
Next: synthetic rugs
Nylon, polyester, olefin.
