Rugs can be tricky to fold and store properly. An improperly folded rug can get damaged over time, ruining your investment. Fortunately, as a professional custom rugs manufacturer, I decide to share an easy 9 step process to folding any size rug for storage or moving.
Why Proper Folding Matters
Rugs are investments that can last for decades if cared for properly. Even inexpensive machine-made rugs cost hundreds of dollars new, while handmade rugs can run into the thousands.
Improper folding can damage the fibers and foundation of the rug. Over time, weak spots in the foundation can become holes, and damaged fibers can lead to accelerated wear.
Proper folding keeps the rug fibers supported so they don’t get crushed and damaged:
- Keeps the foundation from weakening under its own weight
- Avoids damage to the fringes
- Allows the rug to be easily stored and moved
- Lets the rug lie flat once unfolded
How to Fold a Rug
Choose a Clean Surface for Folding
Fold your rug on a clean, smooth, flat surface. This helps avoid getting dirt, debris, or moisture trapped in the rug fibers. Trapped particulates can degrade fabrics over time.
Hard flooring like wood, laminate, tile, or vinyl works best. Avoid concrete and stone floors which can scratch or abrade delicate pile fabrics. Grass or soil should also be avoided.
Sweep the floor first if needed to remove any debris. For best results, consider cleaning the rug first before folding. This avoids trapping soil particles in the foundation or fibers.
Determine Pile Direction
Figure out which way the pile lies so you can fold “with the grain”:
- Synthetic and wool loop pile rugs have no pile direction
- Cut pile rugs like Saxony or shag have a clear pile direction
To check, lightly brush your fingers across the surface. One direction will feel smooth, while brushing against the grain feels rough. Fold in the direction of the nap.
If the rug has fringe, check which way the fringe leans. This indicates pile direction.
Turn the Rug Over
Place the rug pile-side down on your smooth folding surface. Avoid folding directly on the pile side as this can damage the fibers.
Turning it over keeps the pile protected during folding. The rug foundation and backing will be exposed.
Fold the Rug in Half Lengthwise
Take one side and fold it over to just past the midpoint of the rug. The two sides won’t meet exactly because of thickness, leaving a small gap.
Make this fold with the grain of the pile direction.
Fold in Half Crosswise
Now fold one end over to roughly meet the other end. Again, leave a small gap between due to thickness.
The rug is now folded into quarter sections, with the pile side protected inside.
Start Rolling from the End
Begin tightly rolling the rug from one end to the other, perpendicular to the previous folds:
- Kneel or stand on the already-rolled section to hold it tight
- Smooth out any wrinkles as you roll
- Roll evenly and tightly
- Work with the grain of the pile direction
Finish Rolling
When fully rolled, tie the rug roll in a couple places with soft, non-abrasive rope, twine, or fabric strips to secure:
- Use cotton cloth strips rather than rough twine to avoid damage
- Wrap ties snug but not so tight that they dent or crease the roll
The ties prevent unrolling, protect the fringes, and make the rolled rug easier to carry.
Store Properly
Always store rugs lying flat, either unfolded or rolled. Improper storage leads to damage over time:
✅ Lay flat on the floor
✅ Hang vertically on rug hooks
✅ Shelving laid flat
❌ Folding over a banister or railing
❌ Leaning a folded rug against a wall
❌ Storing folded rug piled under other items
Improper storage can warp the foundation, crush the fibers, and damage any fringes. Store properly for best rug longevity.
Unroll and Smooth Before Use
When ready to put your rug back in use, unroll it and allow it to relax. Then lightly steam or beat the surface with a rug beater to bring back the pile and vibrancy of the fibers.
Give it a day or two to fully relax and flatten before placing any furniture on it. Enjoy your freshly unfolded rug!
Following these simple rug folding steps keeps your rug protected during storage and moving. Always fold with the pile grain, store flat or rolled, and smooth the fibers before reusing for best life from your rug.