Wool Rugs
Shop Apartment F's curated collection of wool rugs, featuring hand-knotted vintage pieces from Morocco and Turkey in styles ranging from flatweave runners to plush living room staples. Naturally soft, seasonally versatile, and sustainably sourced, each wool rug is made to ground your space with lasting beauty and integrity.
Why Choose a Wool Rug?
Wool rugs are a naturally non-toxic and eco-friendly option for your home. As a single-source natural fiber, wool is breathable in summer, insulating in winter, soft underfoot, and resistant to everyday stains and wear. At Apartment F, we carry non-toxic wool rugs that use plant-based dyes, with no synthetic fibers or chemical treatments. We only source wool rugs that are hand-knotted or flatwoven, ensuring heirloom quality and ethical craftsmanship.
Benefits of wool rugs include:
- All-season comfort (temperature-regulating)
- Naturally stain-resistant + flame-resistant
- Sustainable and biodegradable fiber
- Natural anti-microbial
- Long lifespan when properly cared for
- Soft underfoot with excellent bounce-back
"Live wool" & Wool Fiber Origins
"Live wool" doesn't just mean wool sheared from a live sheep, it refers to using the literal first spin of the fleece. This initial round of wool is the cleanest, softest, and strongest, making it ideal for high-quality yarn. After that first spin, wool fibers that naturally shed or fall off the sheep can be collected and spun again, but the resulting yarn is generally coarser and less durable. So when we say a rug is made from "live wool," we mean it's crafted from the best part of the fleece, right from the start.
At Apartment F, our vintage rugs typically feature wool that was sourced locally in Morocco, especially around the Atlas Mountains. For our contemporary Moroccan rugs, the wool is from Taznakht or M'rirt in north Morocco, both known for their exceptionally high-quality fiber. All of the wool in our rugs is handspun, a labor-intensive process that not only reflects traditional weaving techniques but also results in a softer, more nuanced texture that machine-spun wool simply can't replicate.
Handspun, high-quality wool is considered a premium natural fiber-and when paired with the artistry of hand-knotting, it makes for rugs that are truly heirloom and investment worthy.
How to Choose a Wool Rug for Your Home
Whether you're looking for a wool rug for your living room, hallway, or something cozy under the bed, there's a size to suit every space. While we reference traditional sizing, please note that due to the handcrafted nature of Apartment F vintage rugs, actual sizing often varies from that so be sure to look at the exact rug dimensions.
Wool Rugs for Living Rooms
An 8x10 wool rug is a popular choice to ground your seating area or anchor your furniture. For more open layouts, consider going up to a 9x12 or layering with a neutral wool flatweave rug.
Wool Rugs for Bedrooms
Choose a plush, hand-knotted wool rug to add softness to your first steps out of bed. Wool runners work beautifully along the sides or foot of the bed.
Wool Rugs for Kitchens & Bathrooms
Yes, wool works here too! A wool runner rug adds texture to galley kitchens or vanities, and smaller 2x3s work well in front of sinks (in bathrooms or kitchens). Wool's natural oils help repel moisture and odor.
Tip: If you're comparing materials, don't miss our non wool rugs collection for alternative fibers.
How to Clean a Wool Rug
Wool rugs are easy to maintain if you know a few basics. Vacuum regularly and rotate every few months. Blot spills quickly with a clean cloth-wool's lanolin coating helps resist moisture. For deeper cleaning, check out our guide on how to clean a rug or consult a professional rug cleaner familiar with hand-knotted fibers.
Popular Colors for Wool Rugs
Wool takes dye beautifully, giving you a wide range of possible colors to complement your space.
- Blue wool rugs - Cool and calming. Discover vintage Moroccan & Turkish rugs ranging from deep navy to soft, washed blue tones.
- Green wool rugs - Earthy and fresh. Look for olive, sage, or emerald in vintage Turkish styles.
- Neutral wool rugs - Ivory, sand, or greige tones work across all rooms and design styles, from minimal to organic modern.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wool Rugs
Are wool rugs good for high-traffic areas?
Yes-wool fibers are naturally resilient and bounce back well under foot traffic, especially in hand-knotted or flatwoven rugs.
Do wool rugs shed?
Some light shedding is normal at first, especially with newer rugs, but this lessens over time. Vintage rugs typically shed far less.
Are wool rugs hypoallergenic?
Wool rugs are often considered hypoallergenic because the fibers themselves trap dust, pollen, and pet dander instead of letting them float through the air. That means allergens stay close to the floor, where they can be vacuumed away.
Are wool rugs good for dogs / pets?
Yes! Wool rugs are a great choice for pet-friendly homes. Wool is naturally stain-resistant and odor-resistant thanks to the lanolin in the fibers. It also has a springy texture that holds up well to paws and zoomies.
Can I use wool rugs year-round?
Absolutely. Wool is breathable and helps regulate heat, making it cozy in winter and cool in summer.
What are the disadvantages of a wool rug?
Wool rugs are incredibly durable, but they're not totally maintenance-free. Some disadvantages include light shedding, a higher price point compared to synthetic options, and sensitivity to overly harsh cleaners. That said, vintage and hand-knotted wool rugs shed far less and age beautifully with the right care-making them a worthwhile long-term investment.
Can I vacuum a wool rug?
Yes, and you should! Regular vacuuming helps maintain the look and lifespan of a wool rug. Just skip the beater bar (those rotating brushes can damage the fibers) and use a suction-only setting. For hand-knotted or vintage pieces, vacuum gently and in the direction of the pile to avoid wear.
Are wool rugs machine washable?
No, 100% wool rugs should not be machine washed. Water and agitation can damage the fibers and backing, especially in hand-knotted or vintage rugs like ours. Instead, stick to regular vacuuming and spot cleaning, and for deeper cleans, consult a professional who specializes in natural fiber rugs. For small spills, blot (don't rub!) with a clean, damp cloth and allow to air dry fully.
How can you tell if a wool rug is high quality?
Start by checking the construction: hand-knotted wool rugs are the gold standard for quality and longevity. You'll often see the knots on the back of the rug. Look for natural materials (like 100% wool or a wool-cotton blend), even pile, and rich, lasting color. A high-quality wool rug will feel dense, not flimsy. Sellers and makers should also be able to tell you if their rugs are made with "live wool."
Are wool rugs fire resistant?
Yes, wool is naturally flame-resistant, unlike many synthetic rug fibers. It doesn't melt or ignite easily, and it tends to self-extinguish if exposed to flame. That makes wool rugs a safer option for homes with fireplaces, candles, or curious kids and pets.
How many years does a wool rug last?
A well-made wool rug should last 20 years or more-with many vintage hand-knotted pieces lasting well over 50. These aren't throwaway textiles; they're heirlooms. Routine care and cleaning it properly will help extend its life even further.