Oriental and Persian Area Rug Care

Ultimate Persian and Oriental Rug Care Guide: Keep Your Rugs Pristine

A well-cared-for Oriental or Persian area rug will last for generations. We often clean antique area rugs for collectors, restoration companies, and cherished family heirlooms over 100 years old. These hand-knotted rugs are works of art, with many taking over a year to hand-knot. Oriental and Persian area rugs add warmth and beauty to any room, and proper care is vital to making them last for generations to come.

Persian and Oriental rugs are more than just floor coverings; they are masterpieces of art and history, requiring proper care to maintain their beauty and value. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about caring for your cherished Oriental and Persian area rugs. Whether you are a new owner or a seasoned collector, these tips will help you keep your rugs looking pristine for years to come.

Why Persian and Oriental Rugs Need Special Care

Persian and Oriental rugs are made from natural fibers such as wool, silk, and cotton, which are more delicate than synthetic materials. These fibers require specific cleaning and maintenance techniques to avoid damage from soil, sand, spills, and protein-loving insects such as carpet beetles and moths.

Understanding Natural Fiber Rugs

What Makes Persian and Persian Rugs Unique?

Many of these rugs are hand-knotted, often taking months or even years to complete. Each rug tells a story, with intricate designs that reflect the culture and traditions of the region where they were made.

The Materials Used

Wool: Durable and soft, wool is the most common material.

Silk: Known for its luxurious feel and sheen, silk is used in high-end rugs.

Cotton: Often used in the foundation of Oriental and Persian rugs, providing structure and stability.

Regular Maintenance for Persian and Oriental Rugs

How To Vacuum a Oriental or Persian Area Rug

Regular vacuuming removes dirt and prevents it from settling into the fibers. However, be gentle to avoid damaging the delicate fibers. The proper way to vacuum your rug can be found in this video.

Rug Rotation

Rotate your rug every six months to ensure even wear and exposure to light. This prevents fading and uneven wear patterns.

Brushing

Use a soft brush to remove loose dirt and debris. Avoid using stiff brushes as they can damage the fibers. We recommend using a standard house broom made of straw or nylon. Prior to vacuuming, gently “sweep” your cherished area rug to help loosen deep-set dirt and sand.  Make sure you turn the beater bar on your vacuum cleaner OFF prior to vacuuming.

Spot Cleaning

Accidents happen. When spills occur, act quickly to blot (not rub) the area with a clean, dry cloth. Remove as much of the spill as you can using a spoon for spots or spills.  Mix a remedy of 2-3 drops of a mild dish detergent with 12 ounces of cold water. Test on an inconspicuous area to make sure that there are no dye migration issues.  Spray or blot the spill, work in the solution with your finger or spoon, and allow to dwell for about 3 minutes—Blot with a white towel or paper towel.  Repeat if necessary.  Use a hair dryer on a cool setting to dry or allow to air dry.

For pet urine and feces, mix 50% WHITE vinegar with 50% cold water. Test an inconspicuous area with the mixture, and if safe, saturate the concerned area, allow to dwell for 5 minutes, blot dry.

Professional Area Rug Cleaning For Oriental and Persian Area Rugs

If you live in SW Florida, for deep cleaning call Oriental Rug Salon. Persian and Oriental rugs require special care that carpet cleaners cannot provide. Watch this video on professional rug cleaning and why you should not use a “carpet cleaning” service to clean your cherished area rug.

Using Area Rug Pads

Rug pads provide cushioning, absorb the shock of foot traffic, and prevent slipping, reducing wear and tear. This video will explain the role of a quality rug pad in protecting your Oriental or Persian area rug.

Avoiding Direct Sunlight

Direct sunlight can cause colors to fade. To protect your rug, use curtains or blinds, and avoid placing the area rug in front of glass sliders or large picture windows.

Pet Precautions

Keep pets off the rug as much as possible to avoid damage from claws and accidents. Also, ensure a quality rug fiber protector is applied to help repel pet accidents and spills. Make sure you watch this video on the affects of pet urine and what you can do to protect your rugs.

Storing Persian and Oriental Rugs

If you need to store your area rug for an extended period of time, have it professionally cleaned and wrapped to prevent mold and pests. Oriental Rug Salon offers area rug storage in SW Florida.

Rolling vs. Folding Area Rugs

Always roll your rug; folding can cause creases and damage to the fibers.

Storage Environment

Store your rug in a cool, dry place. Avoid damp areas that can promote mold growth. Oriental Rug Salon stores rugs in a controlled environment safe from moths, sunlight, and hurricanes.

Repairing Persian and Oriental Rugs

When to Repair

Look for signs of wear, such as frayed edges, holes, insects, moths, or fading. Addressing these issues early can prevent further damage. Oriental Rug Salon offers Oriental and Persian area rug repairs with a quick turnaround time.

Ignoring Small Damages

Minor damages can quickly become big problems if left unaddressed. Regularly inspect your rug for any signs of wear.

SW Florida’s Leading Oriental and Persian Area Rug Cleaning Company

Oriental Rug Salon is a full service area rug cleaning, repair, restoration, and appraisal company serving clients from Marco Island to Sarasota Florida.  Our 6,000 square foot facility is supervised by a Rug Master and our technicians are experienced in all rug types. We are the “cleaner of choice” to many of our areas leading interior designers, Oriental and Persian rug retailers, rug collectors, and thousands of clients who cherish their area rugs.

Oriental Rug Salon is a Certified Partner with the prestigious Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) , the international Carpet & Rug Institute (CRI), and a WoolSafe Approved Service Provider. We know area rugs and what it takes to care for them!

For more information about Oriental Rug Salon or to schedule a thoroughly exhaustive cleaning, please visit us online at https://orientalrugsalon.com/ or call us at 239-424–8171.  You can also visit us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/OrientalRugSalon/