Genuine cowhide is one of the most forgiving floor coverings you can own. The hair-on hide shrugs off daily traffic, does not trap dust the way a woven rug does, and cleans up quickly once you know how. It still has a few quirks worth understanding before you reach for a bottle of ordinary carpet cleaner. Here is how to keep a cowhide rug looking new for years.
Routine cleaning
For everyday upkeep, a shake outdoors and a vacuum is usually all it takes. Vacuum in the direction of the hair, with the beater bar switched off or set to bare-floor mode so the brush does not pull at the hide. A quick sweep with a soft broom works just as well. Because cowhide sheds very little and naturally resists dust, most rugs only need this light attention once a week.
Spills and stains
The golden rule with cowhide is to deal with spills fast and work from the outside of the mark inward. Blot up any liquid with a dry cloth first. For most marks, a cloth dampened with cold water and a drop of mild soap will lift the spot; wipe gently in the direction of the hair, then go over it again with a clean damp cloth and blot dry. For grease, sprinkle the area with cornstarch or talcum powder, leave it a few hours to draw out the oil, then brush or vacuum it away.
Avoid soaking the hide. Water sitting on the leather backing can stiffen or warp it, so keep everything as dry as you reasonably can and let it air dry naturally.
What not to use
Skip harsh chemicals, bleach, and strong solvents. They strip the natural finish and can discolour the hair. Steam cleaners and washing machines are also off the list, since the heat and heavy moisture are hard on the hide. Keep the rug out of long spells of direct sunlight too, which fades the natural markings over time.
Getting rid of creases
A brand-new cowhide, or one that has been folded for shipping, may arrive with a few creases. Lay it flat in a warm room and give it a day or two; the weight of the hide usually settles them out. For stubborn folds, place a towel over the crease and use an iron on a low, no-steam setting for a few seconds, or weigh the spot down with something heavy and flat overnight. The hide relaxes with a little warmth.
Stop it slipping
On hard floors a cowhide can slide. A non-slip rug pad cut slightly smaller than the hide keeps it in place, protects your floor, and adds a little cushioning underfoot.
Long-term care
Rotate the rug now and then so it wears and fades evenly, especially in a busy room. Stored properly, rolled with the hair-side out in a cool dry place, a genuine cowhide stays supple and handsome for decades. Explore the full range of genuine cowhide rugs if you are ready to add one to your home.
