Owning a Oriental Rug

One of the truly great things about owning genuine handmade oriental rugs is that fact that they really do not need much maintenance at all. Most oriental area rugs will last several decades, and in the case of finer rugs of higher quality, an oriental rug can last for centuries. Walking on oriental area rugs will not hurt them, in fact, many corporations use handmade oriental rugs in there foyers or in front of elevators where traffic is highest. Although these rugs can easily withstand such abuse, they will definitely last longer with a scheduled maintenance program and a little tender loving care.

Many Persian area rugs have slight differences of color and tone in large color fields. These striations sometimes even of a totally different color, and are the definite proof of one thing: this rug was made by hand. This “abrash” can be caused by nomadic changes-of-residence, and the weaver’s decision to complete the rug at his new location. Waiting for another ‘crop’ of wool from his sheep can take the longest. Then finding local flora to make more dye is the always-uncertain element. Inevitably there is a minor or major difference, but this is the inherent charm that these rugs display, by bringing us closer to the daily struggles of these primitive nomads. Of course, some slightly more sophisticated weavers sometimes add ‘a touch of abrash’ to increase the apparent age of a tribal or city rug. This adds to the charm and authenticity of your hand-made work of art.

If you received you oriental rugs via shipping, be very careful unwrapping the rug. Carefully cut the wrapping tape only, with scissors. Unwrap any paper or plastic film if any, and unroll. If there is any chemical odor from the packing material, allow the rug to stay for a day or so in a well-vented location, until odor disappears.

If there is any folds or creases these will flatten and disappear with regular walking, and a corner of the rug that does not lay flat should be kept under a pile of books, or similar weight, for a few days.

To extend the life of your new oriental rug try to use coasters under all furniture legs, to spread the weight of the furniture over a larger area. Old glass coasters are best, and are still available from some fine antique dealers, vintage store or estate sales.

Positioning the rug can have a dramatic effect on the look of your rug. Please be aware that your entire rug may seem many shades darker or lighter, depending on the direction of its pile to the main source of light! This is mainly because of the high lanolin content in fine wool. Try it in each direction to determine which suits your room better, or the particular season of the year. Rotating it by season, or when you set the clocks back or forward, will allow traffic patterns to fall on new areas, thus extending the life of your area rug. The subtle changes of color from dark to light, or vice versa, can later be a welcome design boost in any interior.

What about pets? Our small domestic friends that have not yet been housebroken should be kept far, far away from your new heirloom…

The use of under-padding is highly recommended. Under-padding is used to provide airflow between your floor and the rug, in addition to stabilizing the rug. The increased airflow allows the rug to breath, which in turn will extend the life of the rug. Under-padding also prevents the crushing and wearing of the pile from heavy use, another way of greatly extending the life of your beautiful oriental rug. We offer several different sizes of under-padding at excellent prices.

To maintain their original colors, handmade area rugs should be cleaned on a regular basis. Every five to ten years they should be hand-washed by a professional whose references have been thoroughly checked. Never steam-clean or chemically clean your area rugs. Do not ever put into a washing machine or otherwise immerse in water.

Vacuuming - Use a suction extension only. Do not use a rotor vacuum or a beater bar. Vacuuming should be done in the direction of the pile only, as one would stroke a cat.

Beating - Handmade area rugs can be beaten on the rear, with a broomstick or similar instrument. Old North-Europeans did this on a snow bank.

Sweeping - Sweeping is effective in removing dry surface spills.

The most important thing to do in a spill or stain situation is to act quickly. The longer liquid remains on an area rug the more likely it is to seep into the pile and cause a stain. So “blot" quickly with paper towels. Dilute the remainder with cold water and blot. Repeat as required until no longer visible. If some traces do remain, use a small amount of a mild wool detergent, like Woolite® or similar product, in cold water. Blot well, applying firm pressure. Do Not Rub. Keep in a well-vented area until dry.

Handmade area rugs can easily be repaired in case of tears or cuts of any size. The process consists of joining the knots together from the back of the carpet with the same material as the foundation of the carpet. Repairing a carpet with silk thread is better, as silk is finer and stronger than wool or cotton. A carpet that has been professionally repaired should look as good as new.

We sincerely hope you enjoy the beauty of your handmade area rug for many years to come. Do not hesitate to call us should you have any questions.