A Persian rug is a wonderful addition to any home, widely regarded for its beauty, durability, and craftsmanship. They’re typically made of wool. These handmade rugs feature intricately designed patterns that define their overall appearance.
It is generally not difficult to clean Persian rugs, but they do need special attention for maintenance.
Persian rugs can take two to five months to complete and can last for generations with proper care. To make sure it has a long lifespan, it’s important to know how to maintain Persian rugs properly.
How Often Should You Clean Persian Rugs?
To keep your investment pristine, we recommend you get your Persian rug professionally cleaned for deep cleaning at least once a year. If your rug is in a high-traffic area, then you may need to have your rug professionally cleaned more often.
To ensure your rug stays in its freshly cleaned state, for as long as possible, we also recommend regular, gentle vacuuming at home.
Caring for your Persian Rug – A How-To Guide
Rugs on parquet floor. Image: FREEPIK
1. Protect your rugs from UV rays
The colors in your rugs will change over time. This will happen so slowly that you won’t notice it happening. Many Persian rugs are now made with synthetic dyes. The effect of prolonged UV rays on these can only be described as ‘fading’. It can happen quickly and the effects are a negative muting of colors that gives them a dull and insipid appearance.
Thus, do not place your Persian rugs near direct sunlight. Always have the curtains drawn to reduce exposure to sun, if your Persian rug is placed near the window.
2. Vacuum the rug regularly
Vacuuming of rug at De Hygienique’s workshop. Image: De Hygienique
Often overlooked, regular vacuuming will prevent dirt build up deep down the rug pile. Hand-knotted rugs are incredibly good at hiding dirt, but whenever you step on them these grit particles rub against the fibers, leading to premature wear and tear.
3. Removing odor
Old Persian rugs might be renowned for their musty smell, but that’s not to say only antique Persian rugs can smell. The reason Persian rugs can sometimes smell is down to their sturdy animal fiber content. However, you don’t have to put up with it. There are a few ways to get rid of bad smells:
- Apply baking soda and vacuum
- Fan dry your rug on both sides, working in sections
- Leave it outside on a sunny day, only for a few hours
4. Spot cleaning
To maintain the cleanliness of your Persian rug, it’s always best to tend to spillages as soon as they occur. If you leave spillages to dry out, they’ll be harder to remove and might leave a smell on your rug. Use a clean damp cloth to blot the stains. Contact professional rug cleaners if you are unable to totally remove the stains.
5. Keep Insects Away
Carpet beetles and carpet moths are widely distributed around the globe. These two species are a real threat to oriental rugs and all the carpets with natural fibers. These bugs lay their eggs in dark, hard to reach corners of the house – most often behind furniture.
With regular thorough vacuuming around the house, you can prevent the infestation of these pests. Now and then check the corners of the rugs, and move the furniture around to clean and inspect for any larvae.
Have the rug professionally cleaned
Apart from vacuuming your rugs routinely, the best thing you can do for your handmade rug is to have it professionally cleaned. With regular professional rug cleaning, you can prevent premature damage on your rugs and rejuvenate your rug to look and smell refreshed. Call De Hygienique today to breathe new life into your rug.
