Slow and Steady is our advice to clients on how to best take care of a Persian Rug. Each of our handmade rugs is built to last a lifetime, so a few simply practices will go a long way to ensuring your rug looks its best for generations to come.
We provide non-slip underlay free-of-charge as a matter of course. This is fitted beneath your rug by our team when your rug is delivered. Underlay helps to keep the rug in place, stopping any slipping, stretching and wrinkling. It also helps to alleviate pressure on the rug itself, forming a layer of padding. This feels good underfoot, helps with sound absorption and generally protects your Persian rug.
Daily exposure to sunlight can effect the natural vegetable dyes in your Persian rug. If you choose to place your rug in an area without curtains, then it is worth bearing in mind that over time it will begin to fade. This can have a beautiful effect, sought-after in many of our antique rugs, but should be a conscious choice! One method that can help to protect rugs in sunlit areas is to apply a window film that will lessen the intensity of the UV rays.
Our fine Persian carpets are all woven using pure wool. he lanolin in wool has many extraordinary qualities, one of which is being remarkable stain-resistant. If a spill does happen, then remember to blot rather than rub any excess liquid, applying a damp sponge until the liquid has been removed. We can’t sress enough not to resort to red wine or salt – these are myths that do more harm than good!
It is best not to use machines when cleaning a handmade rug. They are generally too powerful and can harm the weave or the wool itself. Any chemical treatments are also best avoided, as their harsh qualities can effect the delicat balance of the natural dyes, causing stains. Better to simply sweep and then organise a professional by-hand cleaning every five years or so. We recommend the Oriental Rug Repair Company. https://www.orrc.co.uk/
After being professionally washed, rugs should be stored in a clean, dry environment at temperature between 60-75° F. The ideal humidity is around 65 percent. Cleaning rugs before storing makes them far less attractive to moths, and we always suggest wrapping rugs in paper, as plastic can lead to condensation and mildew.
Annually inspecting the front and back of carpets will reveal any restoration needs while they are still minor. Necessary work should always be done by a specialist.
