How to Care for Kilim and Rug Pillow Covers

A pillow cover cut from a vintage rug has already lasted decades on a floor. On a sofa it has an easier life, and with a little care it will last for many more years. The good news is that wool is naturally resistant to dirt and stains. Most of the time, the best care is simply gentle and regular.

The one rule: no washing machine

Do not put a rug or kilim pillow cover in the washing machine or the dryer. Hot water and spinning can shrink the wool, make dyes run and distort the shape. The cotton back would also shrink at a different rate from the rug front. Spot clean at home, and for anything more, use a professional dry cleaner who works with rugs or wool textiles.

Weekly: brush or vacuum

• Kilim covers: brush with a soft clothes brush in the direction of the weave, or vacuum on low with the upholstery tool.
• Rug covers: brush in the direction of the pile. Run your hand over it: the smooth direction is the right one.
• Tulu covers: shake them out and fluff the pile with your fingers. Avoid vacuuming the long pile directly.

Spills: act quickly, blot gently

1. Blot with a clean white cloth. Do not rub, which pushes the spill deeper into the wool.
2. Dab with cool water. Hot water can set some stains.
3. For stubborn marks, use a few drops of mild wool detergent in cool water, test it on the back corner first, then blot clean with plain water.
4. Let it dry flat, away from radiators and direct sun.

Air them out

Wool loves fresh air. A few hours on a dry, shaded day removes odours and refreshes the fibres. Keep them out of strong direct sunlight for long periods, which can fade natural dyes over time.

Rotate and fluff

Turn and swap your cushions every few weeks so they wear and fade evenly, just as you would rotate a rug. Take the insert out now and then and fluff it, so the cover does not stretch over a flattened insert.

Storing them

If you change cushions with the seasons, store covers clean and dry, wrapped in cotton or a breathable bag, never sealed plastic. A cedar block or lavender sachet helps keep moths away. Moths are the main enemy of stored wool, so check stored covers once or twice a season.

Shedding and small loose threads

Some light shedding is normal, especially on Tulu covers in the first weeks. If a single knot or thread comes loose, do not pull it. Trim it level with the pile using sharp scissors.

More care guides

For full-size pieces, see how to care for a vintage wool rug and living with your kilim. To find a new pair, browse our kilim pillow covers, rug pillow covers, Tulu pillow covers or all cushion covers.