Most homeowners don’t expect their favorite rug to lose shape or color after cleaning, yet it happens far too often. A small cleaning attempt can end up costing more than the rug itself. A surprising fact is that nearly 40% of rug damage cases come from DIY cleaning gone wrong , not daily wear and tear. That’s a big reminder that the way we handle our rugs can make or break their look and lifespan. The Real Reason Rugs Shrink After Home Cleaning Rug fibers react differently to water, heat, and detergents. Some absorb moisture quickly, while others tighten as they dry. When people use too much water or hot air, the backing and fibers contract. This causes uneven tension that pulls the rug inward, creating that noticeable shrunken look. Many rugs are made with cotton or wool bases that expand when wet and tighten when dry. When this process isn’t controlled, the rug loses its original size and structure. In short, the problem isn’t the cleaning itself- it’s the imbalance betw...