Saved Tabriz Rug from Pet Damage
How We Saved a Family Heirloom Tabriz Rug from Pet Damage
Antique Persian and Oriental rugs aren’t just floor coverings—they’re pieces of history, family heirlooms, and often irreplaceable treasures. At Oriental Rug Salon, we understand just how devastating it can be when one of these prized possessions is suddenly stained, damaged, or seemingly ruined.
In this case study, we share the story of a beautiful antique Tabriz rug that suffered severe pet damage on Mother’s Day weekend, and how our expert team restored it—much to the relief and joy of our client.
The Client’s Urgent Call on Mother’s Day
Earlier this year, we received a frantic phone call on Mother’s Day. A long-time client in SW Florida was preparing to host a large family gathering. Her adult son had brought his Golden Retriever and three children along for the weekend, and while they were all supposed to steer clear of her prized Tabriz rug—accidents happen.
To her horror, the dog urinated directly on the center of the antique rug, and she noticed the colors starting to bleed. In a panic, she called Oriental Rug Salon, hoping it wasn’t too late to save her heirloom.
Understanding the Value of the Tabriz Rug
The rug in question was a hand-knotted antique Tabriz rug, renowned for its intricate floral motifs and exceptional craftsmanship. Tabriz rugs are highly prized for their:
- Intricate Persian knotting
- Silk and wool blends
- Vibrant vegetable-dyed colors
- Cultural and sentimental significance
For our client, this rug wasn’t just expensive—it was a treasured family heirloom passed down through generations.
The Dangers of Pet Urine on Oriental Rugs
- Pet urine can wreak havoc on Oriental and Persian rugs:
- Acidity in urine causes dye migration (color bleed)
- Odors penetrate deep into the cotton foundation
- Bacteria can break down fibers over time leading to dry rot
- Improper cleaning can worsen the damage
Without immediate and professional treatment, even a minor accident can result in permanent staining or structural damage.
Tip: How To Protect Your Oriental or Persian Area Rug From Pet Urine Damage
Our Immediate Response and Sunday Pickup
While many businesses were closed on Mother’s Day, our team at Oriental Rug Salon understood the urgency. We immediately arranged a same-day pickup, arriving at her home that Sunday evening.
With care and precision, we secured the rug and transported it directly to our controlled rug cleaning facility.
Overnight Decontamination Process
Upon arrival, our team began the overnight decontamination:
- The rug was laid flat and fully saturated in a neutralizing bath designed to break down the urine salts.
- Specialized enzymes targeted bacteria and odor molecules.
- We closely monitored the dye stability to prevent further bleeding.
This first step was critical to ensure the long-term success of the restoration.
Color Bleed: What It Is and How We Fixed It
Color bleeding happens when the dyes—especially natural vegetable dyes—begin to migrate. In this case:
The red and blue tones were beginning to feather into the surrounding beige areas.
Left untreated, this would have led to permanent discoloration.
We applied a custom pH-balanced dye stabilizer, followed by precision flushing techniques using WoolSafe-approved cleaning agents.
The Expert Cleaning & Deodorization Process
Once stabilized, the rug underwent:
- Gentle hand washing using pH-conditioned water and specialized detergents
- Fringe detailing to remove any staining along the edges
- Odor neutralization using botanical-based deodorizers
- Flat drying under controlled temperature and humidity
Our Rug Master supervised every step.
The Results: A Beautifully Restored Heirloom
The cleaning and restoration process took seven days, and at the end, there was:
- No evidence of color loss
- Complete removal of odor
- Rug structure remained intact
- Fringe was clean and bright
She called us in tears, overjoyed that her family treasure had been saved.
Why Experience and Credentials Matter
Restoring antique rugs isn’t about guesswork—it requires deep knowledge, patience, and the right tools.
Oriental Rug Salon is:
- A Certified Partner with the IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification)
- A WoolSafe Approved Service Provider
- Affiliated with the International Carpet & Rug Institute (CRI)
Our technicians are trained in fiber identification, dye chemistry, and advanced cleaning techniques, ensuring every rug receives museum-level care.
Why Clients Trust Oriental Rug Salon For Oriental and Persian Area Rug Cleaning
We’re proud to be the “cleaner of choice” for:
- Interior designers
- Rug collectors
- Insurance & restoration companies
- Persian and Oriental rug retailers
- Rug owners desirous of a quality cleaning
Our reputation is built on expertise, integrity, and a deep respect for each rug’s story.
Preventing Future Accidents: Tips for Rug Owners
- Use rug pads to elevate and protect your rug
- Keep antique rugs in low-traffic, pet-free zones
- Schedule annual cleanings to preserve fiber health
- Address accidents within hours, not days
- Consider protective fiber treatments
What To Do If a Pet Accident Happens on Your Rug
- Blot—Don’t rub—the affected area
- Use cool water only
- Avoid using over-the-counter cleaners
Call Oriental Rug Salon immediately at 239-424-8171
The faster we can intervene, the better your chances of full recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you always remove pet urine and odor from Oriental rugs?
Yes, in most cases—especially when treated quickly. Our decontamination baths neutralize and remove deep-seated odors and bacteria.
Will the rug colors be restored after bleeding?
If treated early, we can often reverse or halt color bleeding using dye stabilizers and flushing techniques.
Do you offer emergency pickup services?
Yes, we do! We understand that accidents don’t follow business hours.
Are your cleaning agents safe for wool and silk?
Absolutely. We use WoolSafe-approved products that have been tested and are safe for delicate fibers.
Do you offer rug appraisals or insurance documentation?
Yes, our Appraiser can provide appraisals and detailed documentation for insurance claims.
How long does the cleaning process take?
Turnaround time is usually 7–10 days, but in emergency cases like this one, we can expedite service.
Quality Oriental and Persian Area Rug Cleaning Throughout SW Florida
This case wasn’t just about cleaning a rug—it was about preserving a piece of family history. At Oriental Rug Salon, we treat every rug with the reverence and precision it deserves. Whether your rug has suffered an accident or needs a little TLC, we’re here to help.
Oriental Rug Salon services all of Lee, Collier, and Charlotte County Florida and we offer free pick-up and delivery for most area rugs.
From Panic to Perfect—Restoring Heirloom Rugs with Care.
