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HAND CLEANING RUGS – THE PROCESS

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HAND CLEANING ORIENTAL RUGS – THE PROCESS

At James Barclay we pride ourselves on having a team of experts with over 100 years of experience in the cleaning Persian, Oriental, modern & contemporary rugs. Our team of trained rug and carpet restorers use traditional methods that get right to the heart of every piece.
It’s crucial that you reach the very roots when hand cleaning rugs. More basic methods may remove the more obvious stains and grime, but unless you can get to the fibres themselves, you’re literally just scratching the surface of the dirt. If not removed, particles can cut right into the fibres themselves, shredding them and damaging the carpet in the process. Allowing dirt to be continually walked in to the rug, over time the yarns will fall out and the colour will fade or disappear. Our cleaning & stain removal is all done by hand.
Most rugs will go through a beating process prior to the washing to eradicate any dirt and dust that might be in the foundation of the piece. Water, brushes and shampoo are then used to wash the wool and/or silk of the rug, brightening up the colours and resetting the pile.
The drying process is just as important, and we have special techniques that extract all excess moisture, but that won’t affect the colour or the material, or stretch the carpet out of shape. Rugs are at their most vulnerable when they’re damp. If they take too long to dry out, mildew and mould can form, perhaps damaging the carpet, and undoubtedly increasing its odour. A rug that has been dried by us is one that will remain fresh and fragrant.
Our hand cleaning process usually takes 1-2 weeks to complete and is recommended every 5-7 years. This does depend on foot fall, as some rugs do need to be cleaned sooner if in heavy use. Whereas rugs in bedrooms can last a little longer before they need to be freshened up. We are happy to advise on whether your rugs needs to be cleaned and our team will also look after any repair work you require. We can offer a range of different types of repairs from full restoration, prevention restoration and essential works.

PERSIAN RUG CLEANING LONDON

ORIENTAL & PERSIAN CARPET CLEANING

Bring your Oriental & Persian carpets back to life, revitalise colours and remove stains.

You’ll be surprised how a professional clean by our expert carpet cleaners can inject new life into your beautiful carpet so that you can enjoy it for many years to come.

ABOUT OUR CLEANING SERVICES

Why Traditional Hand Cleaning is Superior for Persian Rugs

Persian rugs are renowned for their intricate designs, vibrant colors, and exceptional craftsmanship. To maintain their beauty and longevity, it is crucial to clean them using methods that respect their delicate nature. Traditional hand cleaning stands out as the superior choice over machine cleaning or modern methods for several compelling reasons.

1. Preservation of Fabric Integrity

Hand cleaning is a meticulous process that ensures the preservation of the rug’s fabric. Unlike machines, which can be harsh and abrasive, hand cleaning allows for gentle handling. This method respects the delicate fibers and intricate weaving, preventing damage that could compromise the rug’s structure and appearance.

2. Protection of Dyes and Colors

Persian rugs are celebrated for their rich and varied color palettes, often achieved through the use of natural dyes. Machine cleaning can cause colors to bleed or fade, diminishing the rug’s visual appeal. Traditional hand cleaning uses pH-balanced, gentle cleaning solutions that protect the dyes, ensuring that the colors remain vibrant and true to their original state.

3. Attention to Detail

Every Persian rug is unique, with specific cleaning needs based on its age, materials, and condition. Hand cleaning allows for a tailored approach, where each rug is assessed individually. Skilled artisans can identify and address specific areas that require special attention, such as stains or high-traffic zones, ensuring a thorough and effective clean.

4. Minimization of Wear and Tear

Machine cleaning can exert undue pressure on a rug, leading to wear and tear, particularly on older or more fragile pieces. Hand cleaning, by contrast, is a careful and controlled process that minimizes the risk of damage. This gentle approach helps maintain the rug’s integrity, ensuring it can be enjoyed for generations.

5. Expertise and Craftsmanship

Traditional hand cleaning is performed by experts who understand the art and science of rug care. These professionals have a deep knowledge of Persian rugs and the best techniques to clean and preserve them. Their craftsmanship and expertise ensure that each rug is treated with the utmost care and respect, honoring its cultural and artistic significance.

6. Environmentally Friendly Practices

Hand cleaning typically uses fewer chemicals and less water compared to machine cleaning methods. This environmentally friendly approach not only benefits the rug but also reduces the ecological footprint of the cleaning process. By choosing traditional hand cleaning, you are supporting sustainable practices that are better for the planet.

7. Enhanced Longevity

Regular hand cleaning can significantly extend the life of a Persian rug. By removing dirt, dust, and allergens that accumulate over time, this method helps maintain the rug’s beauty and structural integrity. A well-cared-for rug not only looks better but also lasts longer, preserving its value and legacy.