Persian rugs have a long history and are known for their elegance and beauty. However, there are some things to avoid if you have one in your home. Here’s eight tips on how to care for your Persian rug:
AVOID EXCESSIVE SUNLIGHT
Excessive sunlight can cause fading, discolouring, and weakening of the fibres in Persian rugs. Sunlight contains ultraviolet (UV) rays which damage the naturally-dyed wool used in Persian carpets. The UV light breaks down the dyes causing them to fade over time. Additionally, if exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods of time, the rug may begin to weaken and become more prone to wear and tear. To prevent this from occurring, it is best practice to avoid exposing your Persian rug to direct sunlight or any other strong sources of light. If this cannot be avoided, it is advised that you rotate your rug every few months so that one side is not exposed for too long at a time.
DO NOT PLACE ANYTHING HOT OR SHARP ON PERSIAN RUGS
Persian rugs are often made from high-quality and delicate fabrics, which makes them prone to damage when exposed to hot or sharp objects. When a hot object is placed on the rug, it can cause scorching of the fibres, leaving behind permanent burns in its wake. Sharp items such as scissors, knives, and other pointed objects will cause tears and punctures in the delicate fabric of Persian rugs. These damages can be difficult to repair and may require professional cleaning services to restore the beauty of your rug. Additionally, these damaging items can also trap dirt into the weave of the fibres, further damaging its appearance and longevity.
DO NOT USE CLEANING AGENTS THAT CONTAIN BLEACH OR STRONG CHEMICALS ON THE RUG
When it comes to cleaning Persian rugs, it is important that you avoid harsh chemicals or bleach. These substances can strip away the delicate dyes and fibres of your rug, resulting in permanent discoloration or damage. Additionally, they could also cause weakening of the fabric and premature fading or wear. It is best practice to use gentle methods such as spot-cleaning with a soft cloth using mild soap and warm water when needed. Additionally, professional rug cleaning services are recommended for deep cleanings instead of DIY solutions. This will help ensure that your rug is carefully handled and its colours remain intact over time.
AVOID VACUUMING PERSIAN RUGS TOO OFTEN ON HIGH SETTING
Vacuuming Persian rugs too often or on a high setting can damage the fibres and colours. The delicate nature of these rugs means that they must be vacuumed with caution to avoid causing unnecessary harm. If the rug is made of wool, vacuuming with too much pressure or suction can pull out some of the pile’s fibres, resulting in an uneven surface texture. Additionally, because most Persian rugs are hand-dyed and intricately detailed, too much suction can cause colours to bleed or fade more easily. Vacuuming gently and regularly on a low setting will help protect your rug from potential damage while also keeping it clean. When possible, it’s best to take your Persian rug outside for regular cleaning, as sunlight and fresh air can help restore its vibrancy. If you must vacuum your rug indoors, always use the lowest setting. Additionally, consider using a handheld vacuum or brush attachment to get into hard-to-reach areas and clean more thoroughly without damaging the fibres.
TAKE EXTRA CARE AROUND PETS
Persian rugs are valuable pieces of art and craftsmanship, so it is important to take steps to protect them from damage. Pets can cause significant harm to Persian rugs, as their claws can snag the delicate fibres, causing tears and unravelling. In some cases, pets may also urinate on or defecate on the rug, which can lead to permanent discoloration and staining. It is also important to consider that pets often shed fur, which can accumulate in the rug’s fibres and be difficult to remove. To prevent these issues from occurring with your Persian rug, make sure your pet does not have access to it while unattended. Additionally, if you notice any signs of damage or dirtiness due to a pet, contact a professional for assistance in having the rug cleaned and/or repaired. Taking proper care of your Persian rug is essential to preserving its beauty and value.
DO NOT ALLOW MOISTURE TO SEEP INTO YOUR RUG
Keeping your Persian rug dry is key to maintaining its beauty and value. If your rug happens to get wet, the delicate fibres and dyes can be damaged irreparably. Water can cause the colours to run or fade, and it can cause mildew and mould growth. The rug may also develop permanent stains from dyes in the water. Furthermore, if the rug is made of wool or silk, then these materials are prone to shrinking when exposed to excess moisture. In addition to damaging the fibres of the rug, over-saturation could warp the shape of your Oriental carpet as well as make it lose its original form.
AVOID USING A REGULAR BROOM OR BRUSH ON YOUR RUG
It is important to not brush your Persian rug too often with a stiff brush. Over-brushing can damage the delicate fibres of the rug, leading to wear and tear that will ruin the beauty of the piece. Additionally, it can cause yarns to become unravelled or weaken their structure, resulting in shedding and pilling. Furthermore, the stiff bristles of the brush may cause gently tufting from the knots on the back side of your Persian rug to come loose. All these issues are easily avoidable with regular vacuuming instead of brushing. Vacuuming is also recommended if you have pets in your home as it can remove pet hair more effectively than brushing.
DO NOT STEAM OR WET CLEAN YOUR PERSIAN RUG
Persian rugs are a valuable piece of artwork, and when cared for correctly, they can last generations. Steaming or wet cleaning a Persian rug can damage the delicate wool fibres and cause irreparable discoloration or even shrinkage. This is because the colours used to dye these rugs are often vibrant and natural dyes, which are sensitive to moisture. Additionally, some Persian rugs have intricate patterns which could be ruined if exposed to too much water or heat from a steamer. To ensure your Persian rug lasts as long as possible it is important to use proper cleaning methods such as dry-cleaning or vacuuming with low suction settings. For more stubborn dirt and stains you may consider using an enzyme cleaner on a small, hidden part of the rug prior to using it on the entire rug. However, if you are unsure of how to properly clean your Persian rug, it is best to hire a professional cleaning service who can use safe and effective methods to restore your valuable artwork.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to preserve your Persian rug’s beauty for many years to come! Take the time to care for your rug properly and it will bring you years of enjoyment.
The best way to make sure that your Persian rug stays in top condition is to have it regularly cleaned by a professional. A professional can ensure that dust, dirt, and other debris are all removed without damaging the fibres or colours of the rug, so it looks as good as new each time. Professional cleaners also provide protection against future damage and wear, so your rug will stay beautiful for longer. If you take proper care of your Persian rug, you can be sure that it will remain an elegant part of your home decor for many years to come!
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