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Rug Burn Cures

Rug burn (or carpet burn) commonly refers to abrasions, redness and swelling received when skin rubs repeatedly or especially harshly against coarse carpet fibers. A kind of mechanical burn caused by excessive friction, as opposed to a thermal or chemical burn, rug burn is usually not a serious condition, but can be an uncomfortable one. Treating the burn can make the wound more comfortable and promote quick healing.

  1. Wash With Cold Water

    • Cold water is the recommended first course of treatment for any first-degree burn (first-degree or superficial burns are limited to the outermost layers of skin, and do not effect the deeper layers of dermis). Rinse the affected area with cold water for 10 to 15 minutes; removing heat from the wound will decrease pain and swelling experienced as the rug burn begins to heal. Avoid applying ice to the burn; this can actually cause additional skin damage.

    Dry the Burn

    • Pat the affected area dry with a soft cotton cloth. For minor irritations, keep the wound dry; the skin will begin to heal automatically and the wound should be partially (if not fully) healed within seven days.

    Dress Skin if Broken

    • If the carpet burn is severe enough to have resulted in broken skin, you may wish to treat it with a soothing ointment. Antibiotic first-aid creams can help prevent infection and speed healing by keeping the skin supple. Natural aloe (from a plant or purchased in aloe vera form in commercial compounds) can facilitate quicker healing and provide natural pain relief. Apply a loose gauze bandage if necessary, to keep the burn free from air and contaminants.

      Wash the burn daily with antibacterial soap. Change any dressings after cleansing the wound. After a few days, once healing has begun, the wound may be left uncovered to allow the full healing process to take place.

    Be Mindful of Infection

    • Though rug burns may cause temporary discomfort, they normally heal quickly. Should the burn have blisters, do not break them, as blisters present opportunities for infections to take hold. If the burn deteriorates or becomes infected, seek professional medical attention.

    Keep Pain in Check

    • Over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may be used if the rug burn is causing discomfort.

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