On this page Dr. Paydar will discuss several topics related to rug cleaning and repairs. For any additional questions, please use the Contact Us page.
Vacuuming, Sweeping, and Beating
Always vacuum your rug with the nap. Vacuuming against the nap will press dirt back into the pile. Avoid using the vacuum on the fringe of the rug or kilim, as that can break or tear the yarn.
Sweeping your rug with a broom on a weekly basis will remove dirt and bring out the sheen of the rug. If practical, beating is an excellent cleaning method.
Always vacuum your rug with the nap. Vacuuming against the nap will press dirt back into the pile. Avoid using the vacuum on the fringe of the rug or kilim, as that can break or tear the yarn.
Sweeping your rug with a broom on a weekly basis will remove dirt and bring out the sheen of the rug. If practical, beating is an excellent cleaning method.
Washing
Oriental rugs should be washed on a regular basis. Depending on the traffic your rug receives, it is a good idea to wash your rug every two to four years. Even if only surface cleaning is needed, it is best to have your rug cleaned by a professional who specializes in Oriental rugs.
Never steam or chemically clean your rug. Such methods deplete the natural oils of the pile. Do not put your rugs or kilims in a washing machine.
Oriental rugs should be washed on a regular basis. Depending on the traffic your rug receives, it is a good idea to wash your rug every two to four years. Even if only surface cleaning is needed, it is best to have your rug cleaned by a professional who specializes in Oriental rugs.
Never steam or chemically clean your rug. Such methods deplete the natural oils of the pile. Do not put your rugs or kilims in a washing machine.
Stain removal and spills
If you know the cause of the stain, treatment is usually available. Common food and beverage stains can be treated with the same mild detergent used to wash delicate clothes. An ink stain from a ballpoint pen can be removed by spraying the area with hairspray, letting it dry, then brushing with a water/vinegar solution.
Some stains should not be cleaned with water. Oil-based stains are best treated with dry cleaning solvents. Questions about stain removal can be answered by a professional experienced with cleaning Oriental rugs.
Always blot and brush stains from the outside edges toward the center. Absorb all moisture by blotting with paper towel and use a hairdryer to completely dry.
Clean up any spills immediately. If necessary, use a spoon to scoop up the spill. Dilute the spill with water and blot, do not rub, the area with a paper towel until all the moisture is removed. Always blot from the outer edges toward the center to prevent spreading.
If you know the cause of the stain, treatment is usually available. Common food and beverage stains can be treated with the same mild detergent used to wash delicate clothes. An ink stain from a ballpoint pen can be removed by spraying the area with hairspray, letting it dry, then brushing with a water/vinegar solution.
Some stains should not be cleaned with water. Oil-based stains are best treated with dry cleaning solvents. Questions about stain removal can be answered by a professional experienced with cleaning Oriental rugs.
Always blot and brush stains from the outside edges toward the center. Absorb all moisture by blotting with paper towel and use a hairdryer to completely dry.
Clean up any spills immediately. If necessary, use a spoon to scoop up the spill. Dilute the spill with water and blot, do not rub, the area with a paper towel until all the moisture is removed. Always blot from the outer edges toward the center to prevent spreading.
Repairs
Immediate attention to damage from wear or accidents can prevent more extensive problems. If the side wrapping or endings of the rug get loose, immediate repair is the economical solution. Often, because of negligence, more and more yarn from the ends unravel. This will affect the value of your rugs significantly. If moth damage or other holes are mended while they are still small, the job is much less expensive and easier to repair. Only allow repairs by expert, qualified re-weavers who will not further de-value your rug by using improper or obtrusive methods.
Immediate attention to damage from wear or accidents can prevent more extensive problems. If the side wrapping or endings of the rug get loose, immediate repair is the economical solution. Often, because of negligence, more and more yarn from the ends unravel. This will affect the value of your rugs significantly. If moth damage or other holes are mended while they are still small, the job is much less expensive and easier to repair. Only allow repairs by expert, qualified re-weavers who will not further de-value your rug by using improper or obtrusive methods.
Restoring Pile
Pile crushed by heavy furniture can be restored by spraying the area with a little water and brushing with a soft brush, such as a clothes brush.
Pile crushed by heavy furniture can be restored by spraying the area with a little water and brushing with a soft brush, such as a clothes brush.
