How to Store, Fold and Move an Area Rug Safely

Arsh's Rug Library · Care

Soft gray and beige rug in a living room with a wooden sideboard — Shown: Chic Ziegler Reya, 9'9" x 13'5"

Whether you're moving house, swapping rugs for the season or putting an heirloom away, a few simple steps keep a wool rug safe in storage.

1. Clean it first

Never store a dirty rug. Dust, food and skin oils attract moths and can set into stains over time. Vacuum both sides, or better, have it professionally washed and fully dried before storage.

2. Roll it, don't fold it

Folding a hand-knotted rug creases the foundation and can crack the knots along the fold. Roll it instead, along its length, with the pile on the inside, around a cardboard tube if you have one. Roll it snugly but not tight.

When is folding OK? A thin flat-weave kilim can be folded loosely for a short time, such as a move. Unfold it as soon as you arrive.

Beige and tan hand-knotted rug laid flat — Store it clean and rolled, and it comes back out looking like this.

Close-up of a clean wool rug pile — Store it clean and rolled, and it comes back out looking like this.

3. Wrap it to breathe

Wrap the roll in clean cotton sheeting or breathable fabric, then tie it with cotton tape. Never seal a wool rug in plastic, which traps moisture and can cause mildew.

4. Store it in the right place

Cool, dry and dark: a closet or a climate-controlled storage unit is ideal.
Avoid attics and damp basements, where heat, humidity and pests do the most damage.
Keep it off the floor, lying flat on a shelf, with nothing heavy on top.
Check it every few months for any sign of moths. See our moth guide.

Moving a rug

Roll the rug, tie it in two or three places, and carry it with two people. Don't drag it across the floor. When you unpack, unroll it in its new spot, put a rug pad under it, and give the corners a day or two to settle. A stubborn curl usually relaxes if you gently roll the corner the other way for a few hours.

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