Rug Care Guide
Because childhood gets messy.
Washing, vacuuming, spot cleaning, drying, and routine maintenance — everything you need to keep a Gatsby Baby rug fresh, in simple steps.
- 1
Routine vacuuming
Vacuum weekly using a suction-only or low-beater setting. A woven cotton rug doesn't need aggressive agitation — gentle, regular passes keep dust and crumbs from settling into the pile.
- 2
Spot cleaning
Blot spills immediately with a clean, dry cloth — never rub. For most everyday messes, a damp cloth with a drop of mild detergent lifts the stain. Rinse the area with a second damp cloth and let it air dry.
- 3
Machine washing
Wash cold on a gentle cycle with a mild, fragrance-free detergent. Skip bleach and fabric softener — both can affect color and softness over time. 3' × 5' and 4' × 6' rugs fit standard home machines; 5' × 8' and 6' × 9' rugs need a large-capacity washer (typically 4.5 cu. ft. or more).
- 4
Drying
Tumble dry on low, or line dry flat out of direct sun to protect the colors. Make sure the rug is fully dry before it goes back on the floor, especially over wood.
- 5
The rug pad
Remove the rug pad before washing — the pad never goes in the machine. Shake it out or vacuum it while the rug washes, and place it back once the rug is dry.
- 6
New-rug shedding
A small amount of loose fiber in the first weeks is normal for any soft-pile rug. It tapers off with regular vacuuming and the first one or two washes. If it doesn't, contact us — that's what we're here for.
- 7
How often to clean
Vacuum weekly, spot clean as life happens, and machine wash roughly once a month in a nursery — more often during crawling season, less as they grow. There's no wrong answer; the rug is built for it.