Washing a Pure Wool Rug

[smurfchops]

I have a large, heavy Ikea pure wool shag pile white rug ... it is very grubby ... can I put it in the washing machine at the laundrette (it is too large to clean at home) and if so, what heat would be safe and would the spin be OK? I don't want it coming out shrunk and all matted together. The dry cleaners won't touch it although it says 'Clean Professionally'. OK so I'm not a professional but to have it cleaned professionally would cost �43 so do I take a chance or buy a new one or both ?? Serious answers only please as I can see this one going on forever. Thanks all.

[mrs_overall]

You could do it yourself by sticking it in the bath. Use tepid water and mild woollen soap powder, such as Dreft. You can give it a gentle knead. Rinse in tepid water and either hang over a line or lay on a floor to dry. While it is still damp, shake it to fluff up the fibres.

[smurfchops]

Hi mrs overall, I have now washed it seven times in the bath, hung it out and it looks great.

[mrs_overall]

That's great!
Not only do you now have a clean rug, you've saved a bomb on dry cleaning and giving your arms a good workout! lol