Maintenance on the Orient Express

Area rugs are a wonderful addition to any home. One special type is called an Oriental rug. They might come from China, India, Turkey, Pakistan, Tibet, or other countries from that region. They typically have intricate patterns made with yarn dyed in various colors. While imitations are made with mechanical processes, any connoisseur will tell you that a true Oriental rug must be handwoven or knotted. This makes each Oriental rug a unique creation, increasing their value.

Some people are proud of Oriental rugs that have passed down the family line for generations. Others pay high prices for exquisite versions. Regardless of the source, Oriental rugs are meant to be functional, placed on the floor so your feet can enjoy them as much as your eyes. If an Oriental rug is hung on the wall or draped over furniture, then it becomes a tapestry. Either way, these precious rugs are susceptible to wear, and they can absorb significant quantities of dirt and dust.

Oriental Rug Care

What can you do to make sure your Oriental rug stays intact and survives for many years?

• Consider where you place it – avoid high traffic areas. You can keep your Oriental rug off to the side of a main throughway, so people can admire it as they walk by. Ask people to wear nothing more abrasive than socks when they traverse it.
• Avoid abundant sunlight – most Oriental rugs are made with organic dyes that quickly fade in sunlight. Some are made with oils in the yarn fibers that can dry out in the sun, even indoors. Depending on its placement, it’s a good idea to rotate your Oriental rug every 3 to 6 months. Some owners use spring and fall cleaning efforts or daylight savings time as reminders to reposition their rugs.
• Vacuum regularly, but carefully. Use a vacuum with suction only, or a specialized attachment for Oriental rugs. Gently sweeping the rug could also help.
• Avoid roller brushes, agitator bars, or other aggressive machines.
• Get Professional Cleaning – Preferred Carpet Care offers Oriental rug cleaning in Redding and the surrounding areas. We use cleaning products approved by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). We also use specialized carpet steam cleaning equipment to keep your Oriental rug safe and secure as we clean it. For more delicate rugs or fabrics, we bring the Oriental rug to our Redding workshop.
• Consider fiber protection – some rugs benefit from carpet fiber protection. This option is not for all Oriental rugs. Discuss the option with Preferred Carpet Care to see if it’s a viable option for your rug.

It doesn’t take a French detective with a large mustache to determine when your Oriental rug needs a little TLC. All it takes is a call to Preferred Carpet Care in Redding. If you prefer, use our online form to start a conversation about caring for your Oriental rug. We want you to enjoy your hand-woven delight for years to come, and we’ll help you keep it looking spectacular!