How to flatten a rug and get creases out

After you’ve found your dream rug, it can be very disheartening to discover that it’s become wrinkly, buckled, or bent. Whether it is a new rug that has been rolled or folded, a recently washed rug that’s not lying flat, or an old rug that has started to curl up at the edges, there are many reasons why you might be wondering how to flatten a rug and get creases out of it.

Not only can these wrinkles ruin your home’s aesthetic and look unsightly, but a creased rug could also be a trip hazard. For that reason alone, it’s best to address the issue as soon as you notice it. At Aeticon Print, we know all about how to clean rugs and care for them properly, so we’re best placed to talk you through some of the best ways you can keep your rug nice and flat.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

How to get creases out of rugs
How to remove rug wrinkles after cleaning

How to get creases out of rugs

Sometimes area rug ripples instead of providing a smooth, flat surface. So, how do you get the creases out? The easiest way to treat any lumps and bumps is with steam from your iron or a steam cleaner, which can help fluff up and stretch out your carpet fibers again. To avoid burning it (or melting it if you’re trying to get creases out of a polypropylene rug), never put your iron directly onto your rug. Instead, lay a damp tea towel down first and press your iron onto that in short bursts. Doing this means you can benefit from the steam without having to worry about direct heat affecting the condition of your rug. You could follow by this video

or this video

You can also just use water to treat dents and wrinkles. Mist the area with a spray bottle — don’t soak it. This will distribute the water better and be more effective at fixing your rug, but it will also prevent any dye from running as well. Then, when the area is wet, use your fingers or a comb to lightly manipulate the fibers until they feel fluffed up again. These methods — steam and water — should work a treat if your rug is not lying flat.

How to remove rug wrinkles after cleaning

You may also find that your area rug has buckled after cleaning. A lot of the time, this is due to the rug still being wet and you should find that the creases disappear once it is fully dried. To dry your rug, lay it flat on a clean, hard surface (not carpet) and resist the urge to use heaters or dryers. This process will probably take at least 24 hours.

However, if your area rug wrinkles after cleaning and drying fully, there might be leftover shampoo or product left on the rug that is preventing the rug from lying flat. In this case, you should wash the rug again until the water runs clear, then repeat the drying process.

If you have questions, please send an email to us!

Our blogs

[TIP] How to Repair Rug Wrinkles : Rug Care