Quick Reference for Oriental Rug Maintenance

Oriental rugs, also known as knotted-pile rugs, have been estimated to have been around since the 2nd millennium BC. They originated from and are still primarily produced in the ‘Rug Belt’, a section of eastern/middle eastern countries stretching from Morocco to Northern India and including places such Northern China, Tibet, Turkey, Iran, India, Pakistan, etc. Decorating with oriental rugs is popular due to the unique designs and durability of the rugs. However, they are very expensive and require a lot of upkeep in order to last for the recommended time.

Some Tips:

Wool and silk are the two basic materials used in Oriental rug-making. There exist 100 % authentic wool and silk, and also imitation versions of these materials. These materials require proper handling and care, and each material has its own specific set of care instructions.

Oriental Rug Cleaning/Presentation
Just as regular carpets must be cleaning periodically, oriental rugs should be cleaned regularly as well. Cleaning oriental rugs can be done at home depending on the material. Imitation silk (rayon) and wool rugs can be cleaned at home with a simple vacuum and shampoo treatment. Real silk rugs must be cleaned by a professional at an oriental rug dealer.

To keep an oriental rug looking its best, it must be kept away from the sun and out of damp or humid rooms. If it is not, it can risk being damaged, and then would need to be taken into a professional oriental rug dealer for rug repair, which can be very costly.

One should also move furniture periodically in order to prevent permanent indentations in oriental rugs.

Storage
Proper storage of oriental rugs is another key to longevity. Before storage, the rugs must be cleaned and dried. Then they must be housed in clean, dry areas with mothballs changed once every six months.