Is your area rug curling at the edges?
In this article, you’ll find nine proven ways to fix it.
From steaming to using wrinkle release sprays, we cover it all.
Each method is detailed with step-by-step instructions.
Say goodbye to rug wrinkles and creases for good.
Read on to start flattening your rug now!
1. The Ice Cube Method
This method works well for flattening curled rug corners:
- – Place an ice cube on the lifted corner, then a towel over it.
- – Put a heavy object like a book on top.
- – Leave it for a few hours.
- – As the ice melts, the moisture and pressure will relax the fibers.
- – Warning: Be careful with light colored rugs.
It may cause water stains.
Always put a protective towel underneath.
2. Reverse Rolling
Reverse rolling is a simple and effective way.
It can remove rug creases and curling.
This is often caused by the rug being rolled up for transport or storage.
Here’s how to do it:
- – Lay the rug out flat with the top side down
- – Tightly roll up the rug in the opposite direction of the creases
- – Leave it rolled for 15-30 minutes, then unroll and let it lie flat
- – You may need to repeat this a few times for stubborn creases
- – Warning: Don’t leave it rolled too long.
You may end up with creases in the other direction!
3. Weighing It Down
You can use common household objects to flatten your rug over time:
- – Place heavy items like stacks of books, furniture, or boxes evenly across the rug
- – Leave them for several days up to a week until the rug relaxes
- – Tip: Rotate the placement of the objects every day or two.
This helps even flattening. - – Warning: Be careful not to create a tripping hazard.
Especially if you have kids or pets running around.
4. Steaming
The heat and moisture from steaming can do wonders.
It can remove rug wrinkles and reshape the fibers.
You can use a clothes steamer or the steam from an iron.
Here’s the process:
- – Vacuum the rug first to remove any debris
- – Place a towel over the wrinkled area
- – Apply the steamer or iron on top of the towel.
- – Hold it for 15-30 seconds per section
- – Let the rug cool and dry completely before walking on it
- – Warning: Direct heat can damage or even melt some rug fibers.
So always use a protective towel and test a small area first.
Don’t use this method on natural fiber rugs.
5. Wrinkle Release Spray
There are sprays specifically designed to relax the fibers in fabric.
They can remove wrinkles, and they work on many area rugs too.
- – Purchase a wrinkle release spray that is safe for your rug’s material
- – Follow the instructions on the bottle.
Apply it evenly to the wrinkled areas - – Let the rug dry completely flat.
This may take up to 24 hours - – Reapply if needed for stubborn wrinkles
- – Warning: Test the spray on a small inconspicuous area of the rug first.
Make sure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage.
6. Taping It Down
For rugs that keep curling up at the edges, you can use tape.
Use tape to secure them to the floor.
Here are some tips:
- – Use a strong double-sided carpet tape or specialized rug corner protectors
- – Make sure your floor is clean before applying the tape
- – Press the rug down firmly onto the tape
- – Warning: Adhesives can sometimes leave a residue on floors, so test it first.
It may also damage the rug backing over time.
7. Sunlight
On a sunny day, you can harness the natural heat of the sun.
Use it to relax your rug fibers.
Especially for rugs that were tightly rolled up.
Here’s how:
- – Lay the rug out flat in direct sunlight outdoors
- – Let it bask in the sun for a few hours.
Check on it periodically - – Flip it over to sunbathe the other side if needed
- – Warning: Too much sun exposure may fade the colors in your rug.
So don’t leave it out all day.
8. Hair Dryer
A hair dryer provides targeted, low heat.
It can help remove rug creases.
Especially if you don’t have an outdoor space for the sunlight method.
- – Put your hair dryer on a low heat, low air flow setting
- – Hold it at least 6 inches away from the rug.
Focus on the problem areas - – Keep the dryer moving to evenly distribute the heat
- – Brush the pile with your hand to help the fibers relax
- – Warning: High heat can damage rug fibers.
This method isn’t suitable for certain heat-sensitive rug materials.
9. Use a Rug Pad
The best long-term solution to keep your rug lying flat is a good quality rug pad.
It prevents curling, bunching, wrinkling, and slipping.
Look for a pad with these features:
- – Made of natural materials like rubber, felt, or jute
- – Has a non-slip grip to keep your rug securely in place
- – Is compatible with your rug material and floor type
- – Is the appropriate thickness (â…›” to ¼”) for your rug and floor
- – Warning: Some adhesive rug pads may damage your floor or rug backing.
So choose carefully.
I hope these tips have given you the knowledge and confidence.
- You can now flatten out your area rug like a pro!
- The key is to choose the right method for your rug’s material.
- Be patient, and always test first.
- With a little time and effort, you’ll have a beautifully flat rug.
- It will enhance your home décor.