The Ultimate Guide to Cleaning Macrame Wall Hangings
Welcome to the Samra Knots care guide! One of the most common questions we get is: "How do I clean my macrame without ruining the knots?"
Because every Samra Knots piece is made with soft, natural cotton cord, proper care is essential to keep it beautiful for years. The good news is that cleaning your macrame wall hanging is much simpler than you think—it just requires a gentle touch and avoiding the washing machine!
Here is our step-by-step guide to keeping your macrame decor fresh, dust-free, and looking like new.
Step 1: Essential Daily & Weekly Care
Prevention is easier than cleaning. These gentle habits are key to preserving the fresh, clean look of your macrame and protecting the fibers.
Dust Regularly: Dust is the main culprit for dulling cotton cord.
The Shake Out: The simplest way to dislodge dust is to take the piece outdoors (if possible) and gently shake it.
The Low-Power Vacuum: For pieces that are too large, use a handheld vacuum or the soft brush attachment of your main vacuum. Crucially, turn the suction down to the lowest setting to prevent the fringe from getting tangled or sucked into the nozzle.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Just like other fabrics, too much sun can fade colors and weaken the cotton fibers over time. If you display your pieces in a sunny spot, try to rotate them occasionally to ensure even fading.
Keep Away from Moisture: Natural cotton cord can absorb water, which might lead to mildew. Always display your macrame in a dry, airy spot. Avoid hanging pieces in high-moisture areas (like directly over a constantly steaming shower).
Step 2: Spot Cleaning for Stains
If you notice a small stain—a smudge, spilled tea, or pet mark—you should always spot clean immediately.
Tools You Will Need
A clean, white microfiber cloth or sponge.
A bowl of lukewarm water.
A tiny drop of mild, non-bleaching detergent (like wool wash or unscented soap).
The Spot Cleaning Process
Dampen the Cloth: Mix the mild detergent with the lukewarm water. Dip the corner of your cloth into the solution and wring it out completely. The cloth should be damp, not soaking wet.
Dab, Don't Rub: Gently dab the stained area with the damp cloth. Start from the outside of the stain and work your way in. Do not rub or scrub, as this can make the cotton fibers pill or push the stain deeper into the cord.
Rinse & Air Dry: Use a second, clean cloth dampened with only plain water to dab the area again (to remove soap residue). Hang the piece in a well-ventilated space and allow the cleaned spot to air dry completely.
Step 3: Maintaining the Fringe and Tassels
The soft, combed fringe is what gives macrame its beautiful boho texture. Here's how to keep it neat and tidy:
Comb Gently: To untangle and fluff up the fringe, use a wide-tooth comb or a pet slicker brush. Start from the bottom and work your way up to gently smooth the fibers.
Trim Flyaways: Over time, the fringe may develop flyaways. Use a pair of sharp fabric scissors to trim these stray threads and keep the edges looking clean and sharp.
Straightening Tip (Light Steam): If your fringe has curled or wrinkled, use a garment steamer. Hold the steamer a few inches away and lightly pass it over the piece to relax the fibers. Avoid direct heat from an iron.
Step 4: Storing Your Macrame Properly (After Cleaning)
When you aren't using your macrame, especially for seasonal items or pieces you want to protect, properly storing them will keep them in perfect condition and prevent unnecessary damage.
Store Flat or Roll: For wall hangings and small ornaments, it's best to store your macrame flat, between sheets of tissue paper or in shallow boxes, to prevent creasing or tangling. For larger pieces, gently roll the piece around a cylinder or a piece of cardboard instead of folding it.
Prevent Tangles: If you're storing macrame plant hangers, tie the loose cords together loosely with a soft ribbon or spare cord. This will keep them from getting into a knotted mess when you pull them out next season.
Use Dry, Cool Spaces: Always store your macrame pieces in a clean, dry, and cool space. Avoid damp attics or basements where humidity can cause mildew or damage to the natural cotton fibers.
Cardinal Rules: Never Do This!
To ensure the longevity of your handcrafted macrame, remember these cardinal rules:
❌ Never machine wash. The agitation will destroy the knot structure and tangle the fringe permanently.
❌ Never tumble dry. The heat and tumbling will cause shrinkage and distortion. After washing, always gently press out the water and lay the piece flat to air dry.
❌ Never use harsh chemicals or bleach, as they will degrade the natural cotton fibers and permanently damage any dyes.
Ready to Bring Home a New Piece?
Macrame is a beautiful, durable craft that only asks for a little gentle care in return. Knowing how easy it is to keep clean makes it the perfect soulful addition to your home decor.
If you are looking for a new macrame wall hanging, plant hanger, or gift, browse our collection of handcrafted designs today!
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