BASIC CARE
Rug wear is inevitable, but frequently rotating your rug 180 degrees will help equalize the effects of wear.
Dampness can cause mildew or deterioration of the threads and fabrics of your rug. Avoid soaking your rug when cleaning a spill. Moths are another threat to a rug’s longevity. To protect it, move your rug from time to time and keep it exposed to air and light.
Continual exposure to sunlight will eventually cause a rug’s colors to fade and make the fabric brittle. Display your rug in such a way that it is protected against too much sunlight
STORAGE
If you intend to store a rug for an extended length of time, make sure that the rug is clean. It should be treated with moth repellent prior to storage and should be rolled tightly. Wrap the rug in a cloth or a sheet, do not use plastic because the rug needs to breathe. Store in a dry, cool well ventilated area to avoid mildew or heat damage.
RESTORING-PILE
Pile crushed by heavy furniture can be restored by spraying the area with a little water and brushing with a soft brush.
VACCUMING, SWEEPING & BEATING
Always vacuum your rug in the direction of the nap (to determine the nap, run your hand across the pile towards the fringe, the light side is the nap). Avoid using vacuum on the fringe as the fringe may break or tear. Sweeping your rug with a broom once a week is highly recommended to remove dirt and bring out the sheen. Consider not using the beater bar.
We also recommend that you avoid vacuuming on a very thin pile rug. If you have to vacuum please do not use the roller brush in the vacuum. You may use the attachment for upholstery cleaning on the rug or alternatively use a broom.
WASHING
Oriental rugs should be washed on a regular basis. Depending on the type of traffic your rug receives it is a good idea to wash your rug every three to five years. It is best to have your rug cleaned by a professional who specializes in oriental rugs. NEVER steam or chemically clean your rugs as these cleaning methods deplete the natural oils of the pile. Also, do not put your rugs in the washing machine.
SPILLS
Deal with spills immediately. Use a spoon to scoop up as much of the spill as possible. Dilute smaller spills with water. Blot, but do not rub, the area with a paper towel until all moisture is removed. Always blot from the outer edges towards the center to prevent the spill from spreading. Once the area is dry, brush pile lightly with a brush to restore texture.
STAIN REMOVAL
Not every stain should be attacked with water. Common food or beverage stains can be treated with same mild detergent used to wash delicate clothes, diluted with a small amount of water.
An ink stain from a ballpoint pen can be removed by spraying the area with hairspray, letting it dry and brushing the area with a water and vinegar solution. Oil based stains are best treated with dry cleaning solvents.
If you have other questions about stain removal or professional cleaning contact us at 713.RUG.MART
