Whether your oriental rug is a treasured family heirloom or a recent purchase, you likely understand the importance of keeping it in prime condition. Though these intricate works of art can last for decades with proper care, they are also delicate and require meticulous handling to achieve this. Here are some essential oriental rug care tips to ensure that your piece gracefully holds up against whatever life throws its way.
Everyday Maintenance
One of the most important considerations for effective rug care has to do with the day-to-day handling and maintenance. First, avoid placing extremely heavy furniture on your rug as this will weaken or eventually tear the fabric. When the furniture placed on it has small or pointy legs, use a coaster underneath to minimize the impact. Second, avoid exposure to direct sunlight as this will gradually dry out the fabric, making it brittle, and will also result in color fading. Another useful practice is to rotate it every few months to ensure even wear, particularly if it sits in a high-traffic area of the house.
Preventing Potential Damage
To prevent potential damage to your delicate rug, avoid the buildup of moisture from the atmosphere and from spills. This can lead to the growth of mold and mildew or even cause it to rot. Air it out from time to time to address this.
Insect larvae have also been known to consume the fabric and if left unchecked, an insect infestation can spread to multiple rugs. Regular cleaning will eliminate this potential risk. But in case you discover too late that your rug has sustained insect damage, professionals specializing in rug restoration services can handle it. Another possible risk comes from untrained pets, which can use it as a chew toy, scratch the fabric, or pee and poop on it. House train your pets and clean pee or poo immediately to prevent permanent staining.
Handling Spills
When accidents happen, addressing them with a sense of urgency will go a long way in minimizing damage. In case of a liquid spill, use plain white paper towels to blot it up immediately. For solids, use a spatula or plastic spoon to scoop them up. Do not use a knife or brush on your rug as this might damage the fibers. After blotting, clean up the area using carpet shampoo mixed with warm water and a dash of vinegar to reduce the possibility of staining. If you are unable to remove the stain, contact an expert oriental rug cleaner immediately to get assistance.
Effective Cleaning
Cleaning your oriental rug is a delicate process that requires considerable caution. As a rule of thumb, only use a light canister vacuum with good suction with this type of rug to avoid damaging the fiber and to retain the original gloss. Do not wait until it becomes visibly dirty and grimy to clean it. Once in a while, perhaps every three to five years, enlist the services of a professional cleaner to wash it. Doing so will not only prevent the buildup of dirt but will also help in the restoration of its original hues.
When to Call the Experts
Owning an oriental rug will evoke an essence of elegance and style that is impossible to achieve with any other rug. However, with this high level of aesthetics, elevated standards of maintenance and care are also required. While your efforts in this regard go a long way in keeping your rug in optimal condition, certain aspects of it require expert help. Periodically getting professional assistance for thorough oriental rug cleaning, restoration, and repair will ensure that it retains its appeal and functionality for generations to come.