Cowhides, while quite durable, need to be cared for and cleaned in quite specific ways. Ask the supplier if they have any specific instructions that relate to the hide you have purchased, as the tanning and production process may have been different to usual standards. Generally, you should try to rotate your rug to make sure it wears evenly, and you should make sure you aren’t putting it into a room that is humid or damp. If you are planning to put your rug into a slightly damper environment, invest in a dehumidifier – it should work wonders and keep your rug dry. If you decide it’s necessary, you can use a scotch-guard-like treatment on your hide to repel stains and dirt, although you should ask your supplier or a reputable carpet-cleaner prior to treatment.
To clean your hide, vacuum as you would any normal floor surface. If you are concerned about upsetting the grain of the hair, you can simply shake out the hide as you would a rug – this should remove dust. If your rug gathers dirt or mysterious stains, you can use a damp cloth (making sure it isn’t wet, as water can damage the hide), to wipe with the grain of the hair (not against the grain). This should gently remove the stain. It is important to note that leather cleaning products and brushes should not be used, as this can cause permanent damage to the hair. You also should not wash your hide in a machine or submit it to any soaking process. If you are concerned about having your hide cleaned properly, it is advisable to have it cleaned professionally rather than attempting it yourself.
To clean your hide, vacuum as you would any normal floor surface. If you are concerned about upsetting the grain of the hair, you can simply shake out the hide as you would a rug – this should remove dust. If your rug gathers dirt or mysterious stains, you can use a damp cloth (making sure it isn’t wet, as water can damage the hide), to wipe with the grain of the hair (not against the grain). This should gently remove the stain. It is important to note that leather cleaning products and brushes should not be used, as this can cause permanent damage to the hair. You also should not wash your hide in a machine or submit it to any soaking process. If you are concerned about having your hide cleaned properly, it is advisable to have it cleaned professionally rather than attempting it yourself.