Stinky New Wool Rug - What Gives?

April 10, 2007 by Debra Lynn Dadd

Question from Lisa J.

Hi Debra, 

Recently found your site and thought I'd solicit your advice. I purchased an all wool rug from Company C in December, 2006. After the first 6 weeks or so, I noticed a strong "weird" odor coming from the rug. I thought it was just the new wool rug smell. Well, was I wrong! The smell continued to grow stronger to the point I thought I was crazy. I finally contacted the company and asked some questions. Apparently, the rug was made in India, but it is all wool. The customer service rep instructed me to let the rug sit outside in the sun back side up for a whole day if possible to finish "curing" it. What the heck? Is there anything I can do to make the smell go away? We have all wood floors and tile in the house and no bad smell in any of the other rooms. Company C wants to charge ME $200 to ship the stinky thing back to them. Please note, we have no children in the house, only 2 adults, so I know nothing has been split on this rug. 

Your advice, please. 

Thanks for your great site and keep up the good work! 

Lisa J. 

Debra's Answer

I once had an experience with a natural fiber rug made in India that had a strong odor when I purchased it. I thought I would be able to remove the odor and use the rug, but I was never able to do so.

Even though the rug was all natural materials, I suspect that when rugs are shipped in from other countries, chemicals--including pesticides--may be applied during transit. It may be these chemicals that are causing the odor.

My policy since has been to purchase rugs only in person and not via mail order, so I can be sure there is no odor before I purchase it. Or purchase from a place that is accustomed to dealing with people with chemical sensitivities and so can determine that the rug really is odor-free.

Sorry, I have no suggestions for removing the odor.