Oriental rugs add elegance and subtle beauty to a home. These intricate handcrafted rugs are also exceptionally durable and can last under feet and furniture for over 100 years. However, these decorations also demand high levels of care, requiring regular maintenance to look their best for decades to come. Here are a few important Oriental rug cleaning practices to follow. 

How to Keep Oriental Rugs in Good Condition

1. Rotate Regularly

Unless you rotate the rug, foot traffic will gradually cause uneven wear on its surface. Oriental rugs usually feature wool pile. While this material is both durable and attractive, its fibers can break down and become brittle if the natural oils wear out.

If the rug is located in a high-traffic area, rotate it at least once every one to two months to ensure even wear and preserve its appearance and value. Carpets in less frequently used areas can be rotated every four to six months.

2. Protect From Sunlight

Oriental rugs get their captivating colors from careful hand-dyeing processes. These dyes are vulnerable to ultraviolet light, which can break down the chemical bonds in colors over time, leaving your rug faded and dull. Protect the floor covering from exposure to direct sunlight by placing it away from open doors and windows.

3. Vacuum

Vacuuming is particularly important for Oriental rug cleaning because dust particles and debris can be beaten into the natural oils in wool or silk over time, resulting in a muddy, unattractive appearance. To keep the rug clean, vacuum once every two or three days to reduce dirt buildup and reinvigorate the fibers. Remember to turn off the beater bar to avoid tears in the fabric.

4. Protect & Untangle Fringes

Oriental rugs typically feature fringes along their edges. These distinctive decorative additions should never be vacuumed, as the suction can strain the fibers or even pull them off altogether.

When vacuuming, tuck the fringes under the carpet to keep them out of the way. To untangle the strands, grab one end of the rug and flip it over the other, shaking gently to loosen snarled fibers.

 

If it’s time to schedule an Oriental rug cleaning in Rochester, NY, turn to Gray's Carpet Cleaning. These experts have been the premier carpet cleaning specialists in the area for over 100 years, offering superior services for both homes and businesses. To book an appointment, call (585) 473-4947. Visit them online to learn more.