On this page Dr. Paydar will discuss several topics related to basic care of your Persian rug. For any additional questions, please use the Contact Us page.
Protection
Rug wear is inevitable, but its effects can be greatly reduced. Frequently rotating your rug or kilim 180 degrees will help equalize the effects of wear and the elements. It is also a good idea to rearrange the furniture layout occasionally, to alter traffic patterns across the rug.
Moths and dampness are the major threats to the longevity of your rug. The danger is decreased for a rug in use which is frequently moved and exposed to air and light. Dampness can cause mildew and deterioration of rug threads and fabric. Avoid using or storing the rug anywhere that is not dry and well ventilated. Avoid soaking the rug when cleaning spills. Never place a planter directly on the rug; ensure air circulation space between the container and the rug. For additional preventative care against moths and dampness, please refer to the section on storage.
Exposure to sunlight and household fumes can damage your rug. Continual exposure to direct sunlight will eventually fade colors and increase brittleness of rug fibers. Fumes from a fireplace or furnace create acidity which will adversely affect a rug. Limit exposure to these elements as much as possible.
Rug wear is inevitable, but its effects can be greatly reduced. Frequently rotating your rug or kilim 180 degrees will help equalize the effects of wear and the elements. It is also a good idea to rearrange the furniture layout occasionally, to alter traffic patterns across the rug.
Moths and dampness are the major threats to the longevity of your rug. The danger is decreased for a rug in use which is frequently moved and exposed to air and light. Dampness can cause mildew and deterioration of rug threads and fabric. Avoid using or storing the rug anywhere that is not dry and well ventilated. Avoid soaking the rug when cleaning spills. Never place a planter directly on the rug; ensure air circulation space between the container and the rug. For additional preventative care against moths and dampness, please refer to the section on storage.
Exposure to sunlight and household fumes can damage your rug. Continual exposure to direct sunlight will eventually fade colors and increase brittleness of rug fibers. Fumes from a fireplace or furnace create acidity which will adversely affect a rug. Limit exposure to these elements as much as possible.
Pads
A good quality pad under your rug is advisable for preservation. Pads stabilize the rug, minimize friction between the floor and rug, provide breathing space beneath the rug, and add to sound absorption.
The best pads are made of hair and jute thinly coated with rubber on both sides. If the hair/jute pads present an allergy problem, use a sponge rubber pad (foam or ripple rubber pads should not be used). Avoid soft, thick pads that will cause the rug to stretch when weight is place on it.
A good quality pad under your rug is advisable for preservation. Pads stabilize the rug, minimize friction between the floor and rug, provide breathing space beneath the rug, and add to sound absorption.
The best pads are made of hair and jute thinly coated with rubber on both sides. If the hair/jute pads present an allergy problem, use a sponge rubber pad (foam or ripple rubber pads should not be used). Avoid soft, thick pads that will cause the rug to stretch when weight is place on it.
Storage
If your rug or kilim must be stored for an extended time, make sure the rug is clean. It is a good idea to treat the rug with a moth repellent prior to storage. Roll the rug against the lay of the nap, forming a tight cylinder (the direction of the nap can be determined by running your hand across the pile in the direction of the fringe). Wrap the rug with a cloth or sheet, which allows the rug to “breathe”; never use plastic. Store in a dry, cool, well-ventilated area to avoid mildew or heat damage.
If your rug or kilim must be stored for an extended time, make sure the rug is clean. It is a good idea to treat the rug with a moth repellent prior to storage. Roll the rug against the lay of the nap, forming a tight cylinder (the direction of the nap can be determined by running your hand across the pile in the direction of the fringe). Wrap the rug with a cloth or sheet, which allows the rug to “breathe”; never use plastic. Store in a dry, cool, well-ventilated area to avoid mildew or heat damage.
