Is Rug Shedding Normal? Plus How to Choose Area Rug Pile Height

Arsh's Rug Library · Materials

Plush high-pile Moroccan-style rug in a living room — Shown: Moroccan Rustic Stacy, 5'3" x 8'0", a plush high-pile rug

A little fluff from a new wool rug is normal. Here is why it happens, when to worry, and how to choose the right pile height for each room.

Why new wool rugs shed

When a hand-knotted rug is finished, the pile is sheared to an even height. Short loose fibers from shearing stay caught in the pile, and they work their way out in the first weeks or months as you walk on and vacuum the rug. This is normal and does not mean the rug is wearing out.

How long it lasts

Most wool rugs shed noticeably for a few weeks to a few months, then settle down. Hand-spun wool and thicker pile can shed a little longer. Vacuum regularly, without a beater bar, and the shedding fades.

When shedding is a problem

Call us if you see bald patches, knots pulling out, or shedding that gets worse over time instead of better. Heavy, lasting shedding is common in viscose and low-quality machine-made rugs; see our viscose warning.

Close-up of thick hand-spun wool pile — Two ends of the scale: thick hand-spun pile up close, and a flat-woven kilim with no pile at all.

Flat-woven beige and black kilim — Two ends of the scale: thick hand-spun pile up close, and a flat-woven kilim with no pile at all.

Choosing pile height

Flat weave (no pile): kilims and dhurries. Best for dining rooms, kitchens, entries and under doors.
Low pile (about 1/4 to 1/2 inch): most fine traditional rugs. Durable, easy to clean and good for busy rooms.
Medium pile (about 1/2 to 3/4 inch): many Kazak and tribal rugs. Comfortable and forgiving in living rooms.
High pile (3/4 inch and up): Gabbeh and plush Moroccan-style rugs. Cozy in bedrooms and family rooms, less suited to dining chairs.

Every product listing shows the pile height for that rug.

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