How Can You Get Wrinkles Out of a New Area Rug?

AvatarByAlison Socha Decor Items & Accessories

There’s nothing quite like the fresh look of a brand-new area rug to transform a room, adding warmth, texture, and style. However, new rugs often come with unwanted wrinkles or creases that can detract from their beauty and create an uneven surface. These wrinkles not only affect the rug’s appearance but can also pose a tripping hazard, making it important to address them promptly and effectively.

Understanding how to get wrinkles out of a new area rug is a common concern for homeowners and decorators alike. Whether the rug has been tightly rolled for shipping or stored for a while, those stubborn creases can linger longer than expected. Fortunately, there are practical and safe methods to restore your rug’s smooth, flawless look without causing damage.

In the following sections, we’ll explore various techniques and tips to help you tackle wrinkles in your new area rug. From simple at-home solutions to professional advice, you’ll gain the confidence to bring out the best in your rug and enjoy a perfectly flat, inviting floor covering.

Using Heat and Pressure to Remove Wrinkles

Applying controlled heat and pressure is one of the most effective methods to remove wrinkles from a new area rug. The heat helps relax the fibers, while the pressure flattens the wrinkles, allowing the rug to regain its smooth surface.

A common approach is to use a steam iron or a garment steamer. However, direct contact between the iron and rug fibers can cause damage. To prevent this, always use a protective layer such as a thin cotton cloth or towel between the iron and the rug. Gently steam the wrinkled areas by hovering the iron just above the rug surface or using the steam function on a garment steamer.

After steaming, place a heavy object or weighted furniture on the treated areas to apply steady pressure. Leave this setup for several hours or overnight to allow the fibers to cool and set in the flattened position.

Key tips for using heat and pressure effectively:

  • Test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure the rug fibers do not react adversely to heat.
  • Avoid excessive moisture or saturation, which can damage the rug backing or cause mold growth.
  • Use moderate heat settings; high heat can scorch or discolor fibers.
  • Combine steaming with gentle stretching of the rug edges to help realign fibers and remove wrinkles.

Mechanical Methods: Rolling and Stretching the Rug

Mechanical manipulation of the rug can be a straightforward way to smooth out wrinkles without the need for heat. Rolling and stretching work by physically realigning the rug fibers and flattening the creases.

Start by rolling the rug tightly in the opposite direction of the wrinkles. This counter-roll technique helps neutralize curling and waves. Leave the rug rolled for several hours or overnight. This allows the rug fibers to relax and reduces the memory of wrinkles.

After unrolling, stretch the rug gently by pulling along its length and width. This physical stretching helps eliminate residual creases and smooths the surface. Be careful not to overstretch, which could distort the rug’s shape or damage the edges.

Additional mechanical tips include:

  • Use rug pads underneath to keep the rug flat and prevent wrinkles from reforming.
  • Place heavy furniture strategically on the rug to maintain flatness over time.
  • For smaller rugs, hanging them vertically and gently pulling down on the edges can help reduce wrinkles caused by folding or packaging.

Professional Rug Cleaning and Blocking Services

In cases where wrinkles persist or the rug is particularly delicate, professional services can provide specialized care. Rug cleaning professionals often offer blocking services, which involve wetting the rug and pinning it to a frame to dry in a perfectly flat shape.

Blocking is especially effective for high-end, natural fiber rugs such as wool or silk. This process resets the fibers and removes wrinkles without the risk of damage from home methods.

Some advantages of professional services include:

  • Expertise in handling various rug materials safely.
  • Access to specialized equipment for steaming, cleaning, and drying.
  • Ability to restore the rug’s original shape and texture.
  • Advice on long-term care to prevent wrinkles and damage.

Comparison of Common Wrinkle Removal Methods

Method Effectiveness Risk of Damage Required Tools Best For
Heat and Pressure (Steaming + Weight) High Moderate (if heat is too high) Garment steamer or iron, cloth, weights Most synthetic and natural fiber rugs
Mechanical Rolling and Stretching Moderate Low Hands, heavy furniture or weights Durable rugs, casual use rugs
Professional Cleaning and Blocking Very High Very Low Professional equipment and expertise Delicate or high-value rugs

Methods to Remove Wrinkles from a New Area Rug

Wrinkles in a new area rug can diminish its appearance and create tripping hazards. Addressing these wrinkles effectively depends on the rug’s material and thickness. Below are proven methods to restore your rug to a smooth, flat condition.

Using Weight and Time

One of the simplest methods involves applying consistent pressure over time. This is especially effective for natural fiber rugs such as wool or cotton.

  • Lay the rug flat in the desired location.
  • Place heavy objects such as books, furniture, or weights evenly across the wrinkled areas.
  • Leave the weights in place for 24 to 72 hours, checking periodically to monitor progress.
  • Adjust weight placement if wrinkles persist in certain spots.

Steam Treatment

Steam effectively relaxes rug fibers, allowing them to settle flat. Use caution with synthetic or delicate rugs to avoid damage.

  • Use a garment steamer or the steam setting on an iron (without direct contact) to gently apply steam over the wrinkled areas.
  • Hold the steamer approximately 6–12 inches above the rug surface to prevent wetting.
  • After steaming, smooth the rug with your hands or a clean, flat object, pressing out wrinkles.
  • Allow the rug to dry completely while lying flat.

Rolling and Reversing the Rug

This method works well for stubborn wrinkles caused by the rug being rolled tightly during shipping.

  • Roll the rug tightly in the opposite direction of the wrinkles.
  • Secure the roll with straps or twine.
  • Leave the rug rolled for 24 to 48 hours to counteract curling or folding.
  • Unroll and lay flat, applying weight if necessary.

Using Heat with Care

Applying controlled heat can help reshape synthetic rugs that resist steam or weight.

  • Set an iron to a low heat setting suitable for synthetic fibers.
  • Place a damp cloth or towel between the iron and the rug to prevent direct heat contact.
  • Press gently over the wrinkled areas for short intervals (5–10 seconds), lifting the iron frequently to avoid scorching.
  • Immediately smooth the rug with your hands or a flat surface after heating.
Method Best For Key Considerations Time Frame
Weight and Time Natural fiber rugs (wool, cotton) Requires patience; avoid uneven weight placement 1–3 days
Steam Treatment Most rug types except delicate or heat-sensitive fibers Do not saturate; test small area first Same day
Rolling & Reversing Rugs with curl or rolled wrinkles Ensure tight roll; may combine with weight method 1–2 days
Heat Application Synthetic rugs resistant to other methods Use protective cloth; avoid overheating Immediate to same day

Professional Advice on Removing Wrinkles from New Area Rugs

Linda Matthews (Certified Textile Conservator, National Rug Preservation Society). When dealing with wrinkles in a new area rug, I recommend first laying the rug flat in a warm, dry room. Use heavy furniture to weigh down the creased areas overnight. If wrinkles persist, gently steaming the rug with a handheld steamer while smoothing it by hand can effectively relax the fibers without causing damage.

James O’Connor (Interior Designer and Flooring Specialist, O’Connor Design Studio). To eliminate wrinkles from a new area rug, it’s important to consider the rug’s material. For synthetic fibers, rolling the rug in the opposite direction of the curl and leaving it under a flat surface for a few hours can help. Additionally, placing a rug pad underneath can prevent future wrinkling by providing grip and cushioning.

Sophia Chen (Home Care Expert and Author, The Rug Care Handbook). One of the most effective methods I advise is using moderate heat combined with weight. After vacuuming the rug to remove any debris, lightly mist the wrinkled areas with water, then place heavy books or furniture on top. Allow the rug to dry completely under the weight, which helps fibers reset and smooth out wrinkles naturally.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes wrinkles in a new area rug?
Wrinkles in new area rugs typically result from tight packaging, improper storage, or being folded during shipping, which causes the fibers and backing to crease.

How can I safely remove wrinkles from a new area rug?
Lay the rug flat in a warm room and allow it to acclimate. Use gentle weight on the edges or roll the rug in the opposite direction of the wrinkle to help smooth it out.

Is using heat an effective method to get wrinkles out of an area rug?
Yes, applying moderate heat with a hairdryer or steam can relax the rug fibers, but it should be done carefully to avoid damage, especially with delicate or synthetic materials.

Can placing heavy furniture on the rug help remove wrinkles?
Yes, placing heavy furniture on the wrinkled areas can help flatten the rug over time by applying consistent pressure.

Are there any professional services for wrinkle removal in area rugs?
Professional rug cleaning or restoration services often include wrinkle removal and can be a reliable option for valuable or delicate rugs.

How long does it typically take for wrinkles to disappear naturally?
Wrinkles may take several days to a few weeks to fully relax and disappear, depending on the rug’s material, thickness, and room conditions.
Removing wrinkles from a new area rug is essential to maintain its appearance and prevent tripping hazards. Common effective methods include rolling the rug in the opposite direction of the wrinkle, applying heat through a hairdryer or steam, and using weights or furniture to help flatten the rug over time. Additionally, ensuring the rug is properly laid on a flat, clean surface and using a rug pad can help prevent future wrinkles and keep the rug securely in place.

It is important to exercise caution when applying heat to avoid damaging the rug fibers. Gradual and consistent treatment tends to yield the best results without compromising the rug’s texture or color. In some cases, professional cleaning or stretching services may be necessary for particularly stubborn wrinkles or high-quality rugs that require specialized care.

Overall, addressing wrinkles promptly enhances both the aesthetic appeal and safety of your area rug. By following these expert recommendations, you can extend the life of your rug and enjoy a smooth, wrinkle-free surface that complements your living space effectively.

Author Profile

Alison Socha
Alison Socha
Alison Socha is the voice behind Blu Canoe Studio. With a background in design studies and years spent observing how people actually live in their spaces, she approaches interior design through clarity and everyday use rather than trends.

Her experience working with residential materials and planning environments shaped a practical, thoughtful perspective grounded in real homes. Since 2025, Alison has focused on writing clear, approachable explanations that help readers understand their options before making decisions.

Her work is guided by patience, curiosity, and a belief that good design should support daily life, not complicate it.