I buy most of my rugs online and have them shipped to my house. Some rugs, like vintage Turkish kilim rugs, uncurl almost immediately after I unroll or unbox them from whatever package they arrived in. But newer rugs tend to have a curl to them that lasts for days and days. So, I thought I would share the three things I do to uncurl a new rug. Feel free to share any tips you have in the comments below as well!

Here is the rug that is now in my main bedroom. This is what it looked like just after I removed the packaging it arrived in.

If I am pressed for space, I will simply roll the rug back up, the opposite way it rolled before, and let it sit that way for a day or two to try and reverse the curls.

If I have the space, or I’m just itching to put my new rug out (usually the case, ha), I will put it out and then place heavy objects over the corners or curled spots. You can use whatever you have around your house, just aim for objects that won’t put all the weight in one condensed spot, leaving an indention. Above, you see I used books and hand weights.

This is not the best method for rugs in high traffic areas, as it can be a little bit of a tripping hazard. So take that into consideration if you plan to use this method.

For thinner rugs, usually the kind you can wash in a standard washing machine, I can sometimes get the curls out by steaming the rug. I have a small steamer I use for clothing that I occasionally use on rugs like this as well.

In case you are curious, both of these rugs are from Well Woven and here are a few of our other favorite rugs right now!

I could definitely find a spot for one of those cuties as well. Let me know if you have other methods you use to uncurl new rugs! xo. Emma

Other sources: Sofa / Similar Coffee Table / Chairs / Curtains / Similar Light Fixture 

Credits // Author and Photography: Emma Chapman