Hana Beni Ouarain rug blue

A medium-sized rug takes between three weeks and three months to make, depending on the density of the knots and the pattern. The weaver ties each row of wool by hand to the warp threads of the loom, after which the rug is washed with soap and water and dried in the sun. Please therefore bear in mind that there may be a delivery time if a rug is not immediately available from stock.

A Beni Ouarain has an ivory-white ground with dark geometric lines and a thick, soft pile. An Azilal combines a light ground with colourful accents, free-form symbols and a thinner pile. Beni Ouarain rugs come from the Middle Atlas Mountains; Azilal rugs from the High Atlas.

A Beni Ouarain is light in colour with dark lines on an ivory-white background. A Beni Mguild, on the other hand, features deep, dark colours such as red, aubergine and anthracite, with a denser pile. Both originate from the Middle Atlas Mountains, but are made by different tribes.

Vacuum the rug regularly using a soft brush attachment on a low setting. Wipe stains away immediately using a damp cloth and a drop of pH-neutral wool detergent, as a neutral pH leaves the protein structure of the wool intact. Avoid using alkaline substances such as soap and washing powder on the stain itself: these dissolve the natural oils in the wool and damage the fibres. Do not leave the rug to dry in direct sunlight and do not use bleach. You should also have the rug professionally cleaned from time to time by a cleaner with experience of wool rugs.

Wool is a natural insulator, which means it traps some of the heat. The rug can be placed on top of underfloor heating, but bear in mind that the heat output may be lower than on an uncovered floor. Do not set the thermostat higher than necessary. Also check whether the underfloor heating manufacturer permits the use of rugs.

The wool is not dyed and retains the sheep’s natural colour. The local sheep breeds in the Middle Atlas Mountains mostly have light-coloured wool. The dark lines in the pattern come from wool of dark-haired sheep in the same flock, or are coloured with natural pigments.

Sheep’s wool is naturally resilient and dirt-repellent, meaning that, with proper care, the rug can last for years. Its lifespan depends on the pile density, usage and maintenance. Rugs in areas with less foot traffic, such as a bedroom, wear out less quickly than those in a hall.

Yes. Smaller Beni Ouarain rugs are traditionally also used as a blanket or wall covering. Attach the rug with a wooden batten or textile hooks at the top and distribute the weight evenly to prevent stretching.

A vintage Beni Ouarain is a rug that has been used before, usually twenty years or older. Through use and washing, the colours become softer and the wool more supple. Vintage rugs sometimes have worn patches or repairs that are part of the character.

New wool rugs can have a light wool smell that disappears on its own after a few weeks. Unroll the rug in a ventilated room after receiving it. Avoid perfume or air freshener on the rug, as chemicals can damage the wool fibre.

Use a felt or rubber anti-slip mat that is slightly smaller than the rug, so the edges don’t curl up. An anti-slip mat prevents the rug from sliding on smooth floors and protects both the rug and the floor from wear.