How to Flatten a Rug

After purchasing a new rug, it comes creased, curled, or wrinkled most of the time. So, it is advisable to flatten it to improve the look and appearance of the home.

Note that a rug can be curled along the edges. So, understand the correct procedure and the know-how before positioning the furniture back to its original position.

Also, it can take two weeks for a rug to precisely flatten by itself. However, you can follow the recommended process if you do not want to wait that long.

Here is an efficient guide to help you flatten a rug.

Step-by-Step Process

We will use the heat and moisture technique for efficient results. The heat helps relieve the tension in the carpet fabric.

1. Lay the Carpet in a Well-spaced Room

Take your wrinkled carpet and lay it flat in a well-spaced room. Ensure that the carpet edges are touching the floor surface. You can use tape to ensure the edges of the carpet are touching the floor.

You can lay it upside down depending on the side that is creased.

2. Use a Steam Cleaner or Hairdryer

Adjust the heat of a steam cleaner to the minimum level and work on the carpet surface.

You can use a hairdryer if you do not have a steam cleaner.

3. Working with a Hairdryer

There are a few factors to consider when working with a hairdryer.

• Do not put the heat level of the hairdryer to maximum
• Hold the hair dryer 6 to 7 inches from the carpet
• Ensure you continuously shift the hairdryer from one position to the other

4. Working with a Steam Cleaner

A steam cleaner is easy to use if you want to flatten a rug.

• Put the correct amount of water in the holding tank and follow the recommended steam cleaning instructions
• Always check the progress before proceeding further

5. Let the Carpet Cool Naturally

Let the carpet lay on the floor for 3 to 4 hours after working on it.

Final Thoughts

You can alternatively try these five simple home remedies for effective results.

• Take the rug out under the sun for approximately 8 to 9 hours in summer.
• Fold the rug in the opposite direction and let it sit for about 6 to 7 hours.
• Lay heavy objects on the rug for approximately 24 hours. You can lay heavy furniture or heavy household appliances.
• Use painter's tape. Lay the rug flat and stick painter's tape along the edges. Leave it for approximately 24 hours before removing the tape. Iron out the carpet with an iron box. Spray the rug with water, then put a piece of damp cloth on the carpet surface before ironing it out.