Mohair comes from the wool of Angora goats. Especially popular for blankets and shawls, it is also used to make soft, vibrant and surprisingly durable carpets and rugs.
In South Africa, we’re lucky to be one of only a few countries in the world that produces high-quality mohair. In fact, South Africa is the world’s leading producer of mohair.
As a result, mohair carpets are generally much more affordable here than they are abroad. They add an element of locally made luxury to a home. However, it’s vital to know how to clean mohair rugs or carpets correctly, to avoid damaging their sensitive fibres.
What’s special about mohair
Mohair wool is finer, stronger, more elastic and more lustrous than sheep’s wool. It is also more insulating.
It results in carpets that are exceptionally soft underfoot and durable enough for long-term daily use in the home.
Mohair rugs may be made purely of mohair wool. Alternatively, the wool may be combined with other wool types or with silk.
Mohair quality is categorised based on the age of the angora goats from which it’s obtained. Mohair kid, obtained from the first shaving of the goat between 6 and 12 months, is the most valuable. This is because it’s the softest and shiniest.
What to avoid when cleaning mohair rugs
Mohair fibres don’t like heat, which can cause them to fuse or be permanently deformed. Avoid hot washes over 30 degrees and don’t spin-dry mohair rugs.
Also, never tumble dry any mohair products. This may cause them to deform and/or shrink.
Some mohair products can be machine washed. However, this is not recommended for rugs. It can cause rugs to lose their shape, and result in matting of the fibres.
It’s also important not to use harsh detergents. These may have an abrasive effect, compromising the integrity of mohair fibres. Detergents with a bleaching agent could also affect the dyes, resulting in blotching or fading of carpet colours.
General maintenance tips for mohair
To keep your mohair rug looking good between washes, there are a few general maintenance measures you can take.
Shake the rug out periodically to remove any dirt or debris before it gets pushed further into the fibres.
You can also vacuum your mohair rug on a low suction and brush the fibres with a soft brush to keep them looking even.
If any spills happen, the usual rule of acting fast applies. Blot up liquid as soon as possible and don’t rub or wring the fabric.
How to clean a mohair rug or carpet at home
It is possible to clean mohair at home, although it’s important to follow any instructions from the carpet manufacturer. Home washing can also be tricky with large rugs.
Step 1: blot up spills
If the carpet needs to be cleaned because of a spill, remove as much of the soiling as possible without pushing it further into the carpet fibres. Use a clean, absorbent cloth, paper towel or a sponge for this.
Step 2: hand wash in cool water
Wash the rug in cool water using a mild wool wash detergent. Make sure the water is no more than 30 degrees or the rug may shrink. You can leave it to soak for a few minutes to soften the dirt.
Step 3: agitate gently but don’t wring or scrub
Gently swish and agitate the rug in the water to help remove the dirt. Do not over work the rug in the water or the fibres may become matted.
Step 4: rinse gently (don’t squeeze) and dry flat
Rinse in lukewarm to warm water and allow the rug to drain slowly. Avoid squeezing too hard and aggressive spinning. For best results, dry flat to avoid folds or creases.
Once dry, gently brush the carpet fibres with a soft brush. For mohair, you’ll need to brush the fibres in the natural direction as demonstrated in this video.
If you’re uneasy about washing your mohair carpet because you’re afraid to damage it, consider opting for a professional cleaning service instead.
Professional cleaning of rugs and carpets
At Chelsea Cleaning, we have the advantage of over two decades of experience, along with specialised equipment for cleaning rugs and carpets.
We offer specialised rug cleaning, including cleaning of mohair rugs or carpets, in Cape Town and surrounding areas. We collect, clean and deliver.
