HOW TO CLEAN YOUR PERSIAN RUG

Hand-woven wool rugs are beautiful pieces of artwork.

But they are rugs that you use and walk on just like any other carpets which creates normal wear and tear. 

Despite the durability of Persian carpet, your special rug still needs special attention and care to maintain and clean.

Follow these easy and simple tips to clean your carpet at home.

Regular Cleaning

• Vacuum both sides of the rug using a medium setting; not the highest setting. Do not vacuum the rug tassels.

• Do not wash the rug in a washing machine or use a dryer.

• Take the rug outdoors and place on grass or gravel. Do not lay it on a flat surface, as the water needs to drain. You do not want to soak the rug that will wash out the colors. 

• Use cold water and a soft, natural soap such as baby shampoo.

• If you find the colors fading, use a half-vinegar solution and half cold water instead of soap.

• Use a soft brush and brush both sides of the carpet. Rinse with cold water. 

• Turn the rug upside down and place it in the shade to dry. Rotate the rug occasionally to dry evenly. 

Cleaning Spills

Time is of essence for rug spills.

• Wipe off as much of the spill as you can.

• Start from the edge and move toward the middle to avoid spreading the stain.

• Once you have removed as much of the stain as you can, place a shallow container, such as a mixing bowl slightly larger than the stain beneath it.

• Use cold water to rinse and dilute the stain as much as you can. 

• Then flatten the rug and dab the liquid until the stain is removed. 

• Use a hair dryer to dry at the lowest setting.

If your efforts do not work, it is time to turn to a professional service. 

Many people’s first instinct is to take the rug to a dry cleaner. 

Don’t do that because dry cleaners use strong chemicals that can damage your carpet. 

Instead, call a professional carpet cleaning company you trust to get the job done quickly and efficiently.

Maintaining a Persian rug requires more work than everyday normal carpet, but it’s worth it. With the right care and patience, an enchanting Persian rug can endure all the trials of the time and even become an heirloom one day.