How to Prevent a Cowhide Rug from Curling in Australia

Cowhide rugs are loved across Australia for their natural beauty, durability, and low maintenance, making cowhide rugs in Australia a popular choice for modern homes. However, a common concern for many homeowners is cowhide rug curling, especially around the edges.

If you’ve noticed your cowhide rug lifting or curling, don’t worry — this is a common and fixable issue, particularly in Australian homes where climate, flooring, and placement all play a role.

In this guide, we’ll explain why cowhide rugs curl, how to prevent it, and what to do if it’s already happening.

Why Do Cowhide Rugs Curl?

Understanding the cause is the first step to prevention.

1. Changes in Humidity & Temperature

Australia’s climate varies widely, from humid coastal areas to dry inland regions. Cowhide is a natural material, so it can react to:

• High humidity

• Sudden temperature changes

• Dry indoor heating or air conditioning

These conditions can cause the hide to expand or contract slightly, leading to curled edges.

2. Uneven Flooring or Placement

Placing a cowhide rug on uneven surfaces, thick carpet, or unstable underlays can prevent it from sitting flat, especially at the corners.

3. Incorrect Storage or Folding

Cowhide rugs should never be folded. If stored incorrectly before use, the hide may retain shape memory, causing curling once laid flat.

4. Exposure to Direct Heat or Sunlight

Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or heat sources (like fireplaces) can dry out the leather backing, making it stiff and more likely to curl.

How to Prevent a Cowhide Rug from Curling

1. Lay the Rug Flat Immediately

As soon as you receive your rug, lay it flat on the floor. This allows the hide to naturally settle into its shape.

2. Use a Rug Pad or Non-Slip Underlay if You're Using the Heated Floor

A thin rug pad helps:

• Keep the rug in place and provide even support

• Prevent cow skin leather from drying or becoming stiff from the floor heat 

• Reduce edge lifting

Choose a breathable, non-slip underlay suitable for Australian heated flooring types, including timber, tiles, and polished concrete.

3. Avoid High-Humidity Areas

While cowhide rugs handle normal Australian living conditions well, avoid placing them in:

• Bathrooms

• Laundry rooms

• Areas with frequent moisture

Good airflow helps maintain the hide's natural balance.

4. Rotate the Rug Regularly

Rotate your cowhide rug every few months to ensure even exposure to light, foot traffic, and airflow. This prevents one side from drying or reacting faster than the other.

5. Keep Away from Direct Heat

Position your rug away from:

• Fireplaces

• Heaters

• Direct sun through windows

This helps prevent the leather backing from drying and curling.

How to Flatten a Cowhide Rug That’s Already Curling

If your rug is already curling, don’t panic — here are safe solutions.

✔ Reverse Roll the Rug

Gently roll the rug in the opposite direction of the curl (never fold it). Leave it rolled for a few hours, then lay it flat again.

✔ Apply Gentle Weight

Place books or flat furniture on the curled edges for 24–48 hours. This encourages the hide to relax back into place.

✔ Light Mist (Only If Necessary)

In very dry conditions, lightly mist the leather backing only with water and lay the rug flat with gentle weight. Never soak the rug.

For long-term care tips, refer to our detailed cowhide rug care guide to keep your rug flat and looking its best.

Do Cowhide Rugs Curl Permanently?

No. With proper care and placement, genuine cowhide rugs rarely curl permanently. Most curling issues are temporary and related to environmental conditions or handling, rather than to rug quality.

High-quality, professionally tanned cowhide rugs are designed to last for many years in Australian homes.

Choosing the Right Cowhide Rug Helps

Selecting a well-tanned, premium cowhide rug reduces the risk of curling from the start.

Choosing the right hide, colour, and tanning quality matters — explore our range of black and white cowhide rugs and natural colour variations..

Final Thoughts

Curling edges can happen with cowhide rugs, but they’re easy to prevent with correct placement, climate awareness, and simple care. When properly cared for, a cowhide rug will remain flat, beautiful, and durable for years.

If you’re looking for a natural rug that suits Australian conditions, cowhide rugs remain one of the most practical and stylish choices available.

Some Popular FAQs About Cowhide Curling

Q1: Do cowhide rugs curl in Australian climates?
Cowhide rugs may slightly react to humidity or dry air, but proper placement and airflow usually prevent curling.

Q2: Can I iron a cowhide rug to flatten it?
No. Heat can damage the leather backing. Always use natural flattening methods, such as reverse rolling or gentle weight.

Q3: Can I use tape or glue to flatten a cowhide rug?
No. Adhesives can damage the leather backing. Always use natural flattening methods.

Q4: Will a cowhide rug flatten over time?
Yes. High-quality cowhide rugs typically relax and flatten naturally with regular use.

Q5: Is curling a sign of poor-quality cowhide?
Not necessarily. Even premium cowhide rugs can curl if exposed to heat or incorrect storage.