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How to get candle wax out of a viscose or wool and viscose rug

Act fast, blot rather than rub, and use as little liquid as possible. Below is a step-by-step method for removing candle wax from a viscose or wool and viscose rug, with the precautions that matter for viscose and wool-viscose fibres.

By the Rug Kingdom team, Rug Kingdom (a trading name of Flair Furniture Ltd) · Published · Product details from our catalogue as of

Before you start

Check the care label on your rug or its product page first; it overrides general advice. Test any cleaning solution on a hidden corner and wait for it to dry before treating the stain. Use white cloths or kitchen roll so no dye transfers to the rug.

Step by step: candle wax on a viscose or wool and viscose rug

  1. Let the wax harden, or hold a bag of ice against it to make it brittle.
  2. Gently break up and lift off as much wax as possible with a blunt knife, then vacuum the flakes.
  3. Place a brown paper bag or kitchen roll over the remaining wax and press briefly with a warm (not hot) iron so the paper absorbs it. Move to a clean area of paper and repeat.
  4. Treat any coloured dye left behind with a little washing-up liquid solution and blot.

Do not use a hot iron or let it touch the rug directly; heat can melt synthetic fibres.

Why viscose and wool-viscose needs care

Viscose loses strength when wet and can mark, yellow or lose its sheen, so treat stains with as little water as possible and never rub. Blot immediately with a dry cloth. For anything beyond a fresh, small spill, a professional rug cleaner experienced with viscose is strongly recommended.

When to call a professional

Call a professional rug cleaner if the stain is large, has dried in, keeps reappearing as the rug dries (wicking), or if the rug is valuable, handmade or made of a delicate fibre. Tell them what the stain is and what you have already tried, as some home treatments make professional cleaning harder.

Viscose and wool-viscose rugs in our range

We currently list 18 viscose and wool-viscose rugs. Each product page gives the maker's own care instructions.

Frequently asked questions

Can you get candle wax out of a viscose or wool and viscose rug?

Often, yes, if you act quickly. Blot, dilute and treat gently following the steps above. Old or set-in stains may need a professional rug cleaner.

What should I avoid when cleaning candle wax from a viscose or wool and viscose rug?

Do not use a hot iron or let it touch the rug directly; heat can melt synthetic fibres. Viscose loses strength when wet and can mark, yellow or lose its sheen, so treat stains with as little water as possible and never rub.

Should I rub a stain on a rug?

No. Rubbing spreads the stain and can fray or felt the fibres. Blot from the outside of the stain towards the centre.

How do I dry a viscose or wool and viscose rug after spot cleaning?

Blot with a dry towel, pressing firmly, then let it air dry with good ventilation. Avoid direct high heat. Prop up the area so air reaches the back if the rug was wetted through.

Prices, stock and exact specifications change, so always check the product page before you order: every product page lists the maker's size, material, construction and care details. Delivery is free and tracked to England, Wales and mainland Scotland, and you have 14 days to change your mind. See delivery and returns.