Getting a new area rug to lay flat right out of the roll can be tricky, but there are simple ways to help it settle smoothly into your space. To tackle those stubborn creases, curled edges, or pesky folds, try our top tips on how to flatten a rug and keep it looking perfect. With a few easy techniques, you'll have your new rug lying flat and enhancing your room in no time!
Simple Tricks to Get Your Rug Laying Flat
1- Let Gravity do its thing
If you’ve just brought home a new area rug, one of the simplest ways to help it flatten is by letting gravity work its magic. Once you’ve unrolled and laid out your rug, smooth out any creases as much as possible. Typically, the fibers will gradually settle, and the rug will flatten on its own over time.
2- Turn the rug upside down
If the first method doesn’t work, another effective way to flatten rug corners is to turn the rug over after unrolling it.
- If the rug’s corners are curled under, flip it over and bend the corners back in the opposite direction.
- If the corners are lifting, gently fold them in the opposite direction and let them rest for a couple of days.
It’s best not to walk on the rug while it’s in this position, as doing so may harm the fibers.
Another trick to flattening your rug is to roll it backwards. Just roll it up in the opposite direction and let it relax into place.
3- Use Steam or Heat
If your new rug doesn't flatten by itself, try using a hairdryer to steam or heat it into shape.
How to steam your rug:
Use a steamer to smooth out wrinkles, creases, and curled corners on rugs.
- Start by moistening the corners of your rug and letting them air dry.
- If this method doesn’t work, use a steamer or an iron set to the steam function, and cover the affected area with a damp towel.
- Gently press the iron against the towel, using short, quick bursts to avoid damaging the towel or rug.
- Once you've finished, work the fibers back into their original position, brush the rug to reshape it, and leave it flat to dry.
Keep in mind: Steam the back of your rug rather than the front, and be careful not to wet the fibers too much.
This technique works well for synthetic, cotton, and wool rugs. However, caution is advised when heating synthetic fiber rugs. Ensure your steamer is set to a low temperature, as high heat could cause the fibers to melt. If you’re uncertain, it's best to reach out to your rug supplier for guidance.
Using a hairdryer to fix rug wrinkles:
- Set your hairdryer to low heat and apply it to the back of the wrinkled area on your rug. Move the dryer back and forth to evenly distribute the heat without focusing on one spot.
- Once the area is warm, gently fold the crease in the opposite direction and allow it to cool.
- Brush or comb the rug fibers lightly to reshape them.
This approach is especially effective for flattening natural fiber rugs, particularly if the corners are curling. Be cautious with the heat, as excessive warmth can damage the rug.
Use the power of natural heat
If ironing isn’t your style, letting your rug bask in sunlight can be a low-effort way to flatten it. A sunny area indoors works, but an outdoor spot on warm concrete or stone will help remove creases even faster.
4- Adjust Your Furniture Placement
Position your rug flat in the room and adjust your furniture so that the heaviest pieces anchor down any curling corners. The weight of these items will help press the rug’s fibers into place and smooth out any folds or creases.
5- Weigh it down with heavy items
If rearranging furniture isn’t an option, try using heavy items like books, plants, or decorative pieces to help flatten any curled sections of your rug.
6- Give the Ice Cube Trick a Try
Rearranging your furniture to flatten your rug may leave dents behind, but the ice cube method is a great way to get rid of them on your brand-new rug!
Letting an ice cube melt in a dent overnight helps the fibers swell back to their original form gradually. The reason for using an ice cube is to slow down the absorption process. In the morning, just dab up the water and brush the fibers into shape.
Keep in mind that if your rug's colors are prone to bleeding, it’s safer to use a different method to avoid any damage. This is a consideration to make when removing stains too. For additional rug care tips, explore our blog.
7- Gently Stretch Your Rug
If the previous steps don’t do the trick, consider having your rug professionally stretched. Stretching the fibers can help release any remaining wrinkles or tension in the rug. However, it’s best to leave this process to the experts to avoid causing any damage.
8- A proactive approach is always better
Using an anti-slip mat beneath your new rug helps flatten it immediately and prevents future creases or dents. Additionally, it keeps your rug in place, stopping it from shifting across the room.
If you don’t have an anti-slip mat, double-sided carpet tape can be a great alternative to keep your rug in place. It can also help straighten out any existing creases and prevent new ones from forming.
And that’s it – our best tips for flattening a folded rug! If you found our advice helpful, be sure to explore more useful interior design tips and tricks on our blog!