Unrolling your long-awaited rug with excitement, only to find it marred by wrinkles or curls, can be a disappointing moment. But what causes these issues—and how can you fix them?

Don't worry—these problems are common and easy to solve. In this guide, we'll walk you through different situations and share effective methods to help you flatten your rug and restore its perfect look.

Part 1: The Necessity of Flattening Your Rug

First, it's for safety. Flattening the rug prevents it from slipping or shifting, essential for households with the elderly and children.

Second, it's for aesthetics. A wrinkled rug can look messy and disrupt the tidiness and comfort of your living space.

Third, it's to prolong the rug's lifespan. In daily use, rugs are subjected to various pressures and frictions. Flattening your rug can minimize the damage by furniture legs or foot traffic.

Part 2: Identifying Your Rug Issues

Before learning how to flatten a rolled rug, it's important for you to understand what causes creases and wrinkles in area rugs. There can be several reasons, such as:

① Packaging or Transportation Issues: Improper packaging or transport can cause temporary curling and wrinkles in new rugs.

② Improper Installation: Rugs may develop wrinkles when not properly fixed or stretched during installation.

③ Humidity: Excess moisture can lead to fiber contraction or expansion, leading to an uneven surface.

Part 3: Rug Flattening Methods

Method 1: Back-roll for Minor Curling

If the carpet is slightly curled, back-roll it, then secure it with twine or a belt, or weigh down the edges with heavy objects like a coffee table or dumbbells. 

Note: Distribute the weight evenly to avoid over-pressing in one area that could cause deformation.

👍 Pros: convenient, no need to purchase additional tools.

👎 Cons: ineffective and short-lasting results.

Method 2: Use Double-sided Carpet Tape for Quick Fixes

If you need an immediate solution for a smooth appearance, consider double-sided carpet tape from a specialty furniture store. Applying it to the back of the rug will keep it securely in place and prevent curling.

👍 Pros: Effective; versatile

👎 Cons: The tape may damage both the carpet surface and the floor. Be sure to check.

whether it's easy to remove and what types of surfaces it's compatible with. Additional tools may be required.

Method 3: Get Wrinkles out of Rug via Heating

Sunlight Exposure: On a sunny day, lay the curled rug flat outdoors and let it bask in direct sunlight, ideally at a temperature of 75-80°F. Make sure to flip the rug occasionally to ensure even exposure.

👍 Pros: No additional tools required.

👎 Cons: Specific temperature conditions required.

Ironing: Steam is one of the fastest ways to flatten your rugs. A steam iron can help relax stubborn fibers. Hover the iron over the uneven areas to press them flat, but be sure to set the iron to its lowest temperature setting. Avoid direct contact with the rug. It's recommended to place a damp cloth between the iron and the rug to prevent damage. Suitable for Synthetic fiber rugs.

👍 Pros: very effective

👎 Cons: Heat can damage the carpet surface; it is time-consuming to iron the entire rug.

Using a hairdryer: A hairdryer can be used to remove creases from the carpet. Keep the hairdryer 6-9 inches away from the rug to minimize damage. Ideal for natural fiber rugs.

👍 Pros: easily accessible; no extra purchase needed; fast results

👎 Cons: Be mind of maintaining the right distance.

Method 4: Get Wrinkles out of Rug via Cooling:

For persistent corner creases, try ice cubes. Place them on the curled corners. As the ice melts, the moisture will help relax the fibers. Once they have absorbed the moisture, press down the corners with heavy objects.

Method 5: Get Wrinkles out of Rug via Turning to Experts:

Generally, the methods mentioned above should be sufficient to address the issues. Yet, if you are concerned about damaging the rug due to inexperience, or if you are dealing with an expensive or valuable one, it is advisable to consult a professional.

Conclusion

Dealing with a rug that won't lay flat can be frustrating, but with the right methods, it's completely manageable. Whether you're facing minor wrinkles or stubborn curls, simple techniques like reverse rolling, using heat, or placing heavy objects can make a big difference. By understanding the root causes and applying the appropriate solutions, you can restore your rug's appearance and functionality.

Now that you know how to flatten a rolled rug, you're ready to enjoy a smooth and stylish space once again.

FAQs about How to Flatten a Rug

Q1: What is the fastest way to flatten a rug?

First, consider locally heating to soften the fibers. You can use a steam clothes steamer or a blow dryer to apply heat, which relaxes the fiber molecules and increases their pliability.

Gently stretch the curled edges or creased areas in the opposite direction while the fibers are still warm, and then secure them immediately with heavy objects like books or dumbbells. If you don't have heating tools, the ice pack method mentioned earlier is also an option. However, the specific method you choose should be adjusted based on the material of the carpet.

Q2: How to get waves out of a rug?

First, identify the cause of the problem. Is it due to long-term storage in a rolled-up state, or another reason?

Second, choose the right solution based on your budget and the material of the rug. If the issue is severe, professional help is recommended.  

Third, take preventive measures to avoid the recurrence of waves and wrinkles. This includes using the proper storage methods and controlling the environmental humidity..