Whether you’ve just unrolled a new rug or noticed one that’s started curling at the edges, learning how to straighten a rug properly is essential. A rug that won’t lay flat isn’t just unsightly — it can also pose a trip hazard and may develop creases or damage if not corrected quickly.
But before you start piling heavy books or blasting it with steam, it’s worth knowing the safest techniques for keeping your rug perfectly flat without causing harm to its fibres, backing, or design.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to straighten a rug—carefully and effectively.
How to Straighten a Rug: Why Rugs Curl & Ripple
Several factors can cause a rug to lose its shape or develop curls at the corners and edges. These include:
- Being tightly rolled for shipping or storage
- Humidity or temperature changes
- Uneven wear or pressure (such as furniture weight)
- Poor rug pad or no pad at all
- Natural characteristics of materials like wool or jute
The good news is, most of these issues are fixable with a little time and the right technique.
How to Straighten a Rug Safely
1. Reverse Roll the Rug
If your rug was tightly rolled for delivery, the edges may naturally curl. One of the safest ways to flatten it is by gently reverse rolling.
Steps:
- Roll the rug in the opposite direction of the curl
- Let it sit for a few hours or overnight
- Unroll and test — repeat if necessary
This helps counteract the tension in the fibres and encourages the rug to relax.
2. Use Gentle Weight
If corners or edges are sticking up, apply even pressure using soft, flat weights — but avoid sharp or heavy objects that might leave impressions.
Safe options include:
- Books with a cloth underneath
- Flat cushions or blankets
- Clean, filled water bottles
Leave the weights on for a few hours at a time, checking to ensure the rug isn’t being damaged.
3. Apply Low Heat Carefully
Using heat can help reset the shape of many rug materials — but proceed with caution. Never use high heat or hold a source of heat too close to the rug.
Options include:
- A hairdryer on the lowest heat setting
- A slightly warm iron over a damp cloth
- Leaving the rug in a warm (not hot) sunlit room
Always test a small corner first and avoid any heat if the rug contains synthetic fibres or delicate dyes.
4. Use a Rug Pad
Rug pads don’t just prevent slipping — they can help flatten rugs, protect the backing, and extend lifespan.
Choose a pad that:
- Is the correct size and material for your flooring
- Provides grip and cushioning
- Helps distribute weight evenly
A good pad can significantly reduce rug rippling and movement over time.
5. Let It Settle Naturally
Sometimes, all a rug needs is time. If you’ve just unrolled a new rug, leave it flat in a warm, dry area for a day or two. The natural weight and environment will often be enough to relax the fibres.
How To Straighten a Rug: Mistakes to Avoid
While it’s tempting to use shortcuts, certain methods can do more harm than good. Here’s what to avoid:
- Soaking the rug with water — this can damage the backing and cause mould
- Using direct high heat — it can melt synthetic fibres or fade dyes
- Pinning or taping the rug — tape residue can damage the floor and fibres
- Forcing the fibres by folding or kneeling heavily on them
When in doubt, take the gentlest route — especially for handmade or high-value rugs.
How To Straighten a Rug: Keeping It Long-Term
Once your rug is flat and in place, keep it that way with a few simple maintenance habits:
- Rotate it every few months to prevent uneven wear
- Vacuum regularly without using the rotating brush
- Keep it dry and away from excess humidity
- Use furniture pads under legs to avoid pressure points
- Invest in a high-quality rug pad to keep it flat and in place
These steps don’t just prevent curling—they also extend your rug’s life and help it look its best.
Need help choosing a rug that fits your space — and stays flat? At Twickenham Rug Company, we offer premium rugs that combine beauty, quality, and function. Whether you’re shopping for something new or need help with care tips like how to straighten a rug, we’re here to help.
📞 Call: 020 8892 5378
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How to Straighten a Rug FAQs
Q1: How long does it take for a rug to flatten on its own?
A1: Most rugs flatten within 1–3 days, especially if placed in a warm, dry room. Heavier rugs may take longer and may benefit from light weights or a rug pad.
Q2: How to straighten a rug with an iron?
A2: You can use an iron, but only with a damp cloth between the rug and the iron, and on the lowest heat setting. Test a small area first and avoid synthetic materials like polyester.
Q3: Why does my rug keep curling even after flattening?
A3: It may be due to poor rug pad quality, uneven wear, or storage memory. A better pad or rotating the rug can help address the issue long-term.
