Care and Handling of your Rug and Carpet

Oriental rugs and Persian carpets are not only a work of art but also an investment, and with proper care can last generations. As oriental rugs are generally made of wool, they are more durable, resilient and stay cleaner than rugs or carpets made from other fibers. By following these simple suggestions your Oriental rug and Persian carpet  will provide you with many years of utility and satisfaction.

Rotation

A rug or carpet should be rotated once every year or two so as to ensure even wear. In higher traffic areas rotation should be more frequent. As continual direct exposure to sunlight will damage a rug or carpet, the frequent rotation of a rug/carpet will equalize the effect of the sun. Use window shades, shutters or curtains as often as possible to protect your rug/carpet from damaging ultra-violet rays. This will protect against the fading of the colors.

Padding

It is recommended to use a quality padding under your carpet or rug. This will help protect it from dirt, wear and slippage, especially in heavily trafficked areas. The life of an Oriental rug or Persian Carpet can be doubled with the use of good-quality padding. You may contact us, or your local Oriental rug/carpet specialist for the purchase of good quality padding.

Moth Protection

Moths can cause extensive damage to Oriental rugs and Persian carpet by attacking the pile, fringes and the knots on the back of the carpet or rug. Moths are especially attracted to areas under furniture that remain relatively undisturbed. Frequent rotation and regular exposure to light and air will keep moths away. If your carpet or rug is rarely used you can safeguard against them by spraying the front and back of your carpet every six to eight months with a moth deterrent.

Crushed Pile

If the pile has been crushed by heavy furniture, brushing the indented area with a soft brush can revive it. Moisten the indentation by spraying water lightly, and brush again. Repeat if needed.

Storage

To store a rug or carpet, wrap it in fabric, allowing it to breathe. Do not use plastic, as it can rot or mildew. Placing the wrapped rug or carpet in a chest with moth deterrent is the ideal storage. A rug /carpet stored in a damp or humid area will mildew, which will weaken and discolor the fibers. Hot and poorly ventilated storage areas will dry out the base of the rug/carpet, making it brittle, destroying the rugs' and carpets' strength and durability. Remember to often inspect the rug and carpet.

Vacuuming

Oriental rugs and Persian carpets should be vacuumed regularly to remove dirt and grit that may damage the fibers and foundation of the rug/carpet. Vacuuming helps prevent dirt on the surface of the rug/carpet from filtering down into the pile where it can accumulate and cause increased wear. Be careful with a cleaner equipped with a power brush as they create a raking effect on the pile and can eventually weaken the knots. Be very careful with the fringes as they get caught and chewed up by the rotating mechanism of the brush. For routine cleaning, use just the plain vacuum nozzle. Never vacuum against the nap, as this presses dirt back into the carpet/rug. Occasionally vacuum the back of the rug/carpet so as to remove the fine grit that may damage the foundation of the carpet/rug.

Beating

Beating is the traditional and the best method for cleaning a carpet or rug. The carpet/rug should be hung outside in dry weather and beaten several times on each side with a paddle or beater. This dislodges any fine grit embedded in the carpet or rug.

Cleaning

Cleaning by a professional Oriental rug  or carpet cleaner is recommended every three to six years, depending on the amount of traffic your rug/carpet experiences. This will bring out the vibrancy and richness of color as well as the softness of the wool.

Stain Removal

When a spill occurs, act immediately to prevent it from becoming a stain and reacting chemically with the rugs or carpets fibers and dyes. Scoop it up with a spoon or blunt knife. Scrape off any solids. Dilute the spill with water. Using a clean towel blot up as much of the moisture as possible working from the outer edge to the center. Dont rub, as this will spread the stain. Once the stain has been thoroughly blotted you may apply the stain removing solution provided below, with a clean dry cloth. Do not soak, and work from the outer edge to the center. Once the stain removing solution has been applied, pat dry with a clean cloth or paper towels. Dry the area with a fan or hair dryer and then brush the pile with a soft brush to restore it. On old and stubborn stains, repeat the process until the stain is completely removed.

• Detergent Solution: One teaspoonful of neutral detergent such as "Woolite" to liter of warm water.
• Detergent/Vinegar Solution: Add one teaspoonful of white Vinegar to the Detergent Solution.
• Ammonia Solution: One tablespoon of household ammonia to one cup of warm water.

Alcohol/Wines, Liquid foods, Tea, Coffee or Urine: Scrape up the excess spill with a spoon or blunt knife. Blot dry the spill. Use Detergent/Vinegar solution. Work from the outer edge towards the center, using a little at a time. Do not soak. Blot frequently with clean cloth or paper towels until dry.

Blood, Milk, Chocolate, Grass: Scrape up excess with a spoon or blunt knife. Blot dry the spill. Use the Detergent solution, starting at the outer edge and working towards the center. Do not soak. Blot dry with clean cloth or paper towels. Repeat with the Ammonia solution, working from outer edges inwards. Blot frequently with clean cloth or paper towels until dry.

Chewing Gum: Press ice cubes against spot. Wait until it becomes brittle and break it off. Use the Detergent solution, starting at the outer edge and blotting dry. Repeat procedure with Ammonia solution. Blot until dry. This will remove any remaining traces.

Oil, Shoe Polish: Scrape up with a blunt knife. Use Dry Cleaning Solvent working from the outer edge to the center. Blot dry with clean cloth or paper towels then repeat with Detergent/Vinegar solution. Blot until dry.

Please remember that all statements pertaining to rug and carpet care and stain removal are of a general nature only. If ever in doubt or for detailed instructions, please consult us, or your local rug professional.