Keep It Clean & Chic: How to Remove Common Stains from Your Cowhide Rug
Cowhide rugs are a timeless way to bring texture and natural beauty into any room—but like all beautiful things, they require a bit of TLC. From spilled wine to messy pets, life happens. The good news? With the right techniques, you can keep your rug looking flawless without the stress.
Here’s your go-to guide for tackling life’s most common rug offenders—wine, coffee, food, grease, and yes, even pet accidents—with grace and ease.
🍷 Red Wine or Coffee Mishap? No Panic.
Caught mid-toast or mid-sip? First things first: gently blot the spill using a dry paper towel. Whatever you do, don’t press the liquid deeper into the hide—dab, don’t rub.
Next, mix five parts warm water to one part baking soda, and apply this warm solution directly to the stain. Let it sit for about five minutes—just enough time to lift the stain without setting it. Then, blot again with a dry towel. Repeat until the mixture comes away clean. Like magic.
🐾 Pet Accidents—Handled Like a Pro
Accidents are inevitable—but permanent stains and odors don’t have to be.
Start by mixing a solution of 9.5 oz water and 0.5 oz white vinegar. This not only tackles bacteria but also neutralizes odors. Lightly dab the affected area with the solution using a paper towel or clean cloth—remember, you can spray the back (suede side) too.
Let it air dry naturally, preferably outside with the hide—not the hair—facing the sun. Once dry, sprinkle baking soda over the area and let it sit for 24 hours. Finish with a gentle vacuum and scrape the area with a dull knife to fluff up the hair. Your rug (and your nose) will thank you.
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🍽️ Food Stains: A Quick Save
Dropped a bite of dinner on your rug? Don’t worry—just scrape off any residue gently using a dull knife, always following the direction of the hair.
Then, clean the area with a damp, soapy cloth. Once the stain is gone, follow up with a clean damp cloth to remove any leftover soap. That’s it. Clean, simple, done.
🧴 Grease & Oil: Bye-Bye, Blotchy Marks
Grease might sound like a disaster, but it doesn’t stand a chance against a calm, steady hand.
Treat it like a food stain: scrape gently, wipe with mild soap and water, always in the direction of the hair. Then, add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a clean cloth and gently rub the area. This helps lift stubborn grease. Finish with a final wipe using a damp cloth.
With a little know-how and the right approach, your cowhide rug can stand up to real life—gracefully and stylishly.
Hugo Hides Team