Rotation
A rug or carpet should be rotated once every year or two so as to ensure even wear. In higher traffic areas rotation should be more frequent. As continual direct exposure to sunlight will damage a rug or carpet, the frequent rotation of a rug/carpet will equalize the effect of the sun. Use window shades, shutters or curtains as often as possible to protect your rug/carpet from damaging ultra-violet rays. This will protect against the fading of the colors.
Padding
It is recommended to use a quality padding under your carpet or rug. This will help protect it from dirt, wear and slippage, especially in heavily trafficked areas. The life of an Oriental rug or Persian Carpet can be doubled with the use of good-quality padding. You may contact us, or your local Oriental rug/carpet specialist for the purchase of good quality padding.
Moth Protection
Moths can cause extensive damage to Oriental rugs and Persian carpet by attacking the pile, fringes and the knots on the back of the carpet or rug. Moths are especially attracted to areas under furniture that remain relatively undisturbed. Frequent rotation and regular exposure to light and air will keep moths away. If your carpet or rug is rarely used you can safeguard against them by spraying the front and back of your carpet every six to eight months with a moth deterrent.
Crushed Pile
If the pile has been crushed by heavy furniture, brushing the indented area with a soft brush can revive it. Moisten the indentation by spraying water lightly, and brush again. Repeat if needed.
Storage
To store a rug or carpet, wrap it in fabric, allowing it to breathe. Do not use plastic, as it can rot or mildew. Placing the wrapped rug or carpet in a chest with moth deterrent is the ideal storage. A rug /carpet stored in a damp or humid area will mildew, which will weaken and discolor the fibers. Hot and poorly ventilated storage areas will dry out the base of the rug/carpet, making it brittle, destroying the rugs' and carpets' strength and durability. Remember to often inspect the rug and carpet.
Vacuuming
Oriental rugs and Persian carpets should be vacuumed regularly to remove dirt and grit that may damage the fibers and foundation of the rug/carpet. Vacuuming helps prevent dirt on the surface of the rug/carpet from filtering down into the pile where it can accumulate and cause increased wear. Be careful with a cleaner equipped with a power brush as they create a raking effect on the pile and can eventually weaken the knots. Be very careful with the fringes as they get caught and chewed up by the rotating mechanism of the brush. For routine cleaning, use just the plain vacuum nozzle. Never vacuum against the nap, as this presses dirt back into the carpet/rug. Occasionally vacuum the back of the rug/carpet so as to remove the fine grit that may damage the foundation of the carpet/rug.
Beating
Beating is the traditional and the best method for cleaning a carpet or rug. The carpet/rug should be hung outside in dry weather and beaten several times on each side with a paddle or beater. This dislodges any fine grit embedded in the carpet or rug.
Cleaning
Cleaning by a professional Oriental rug or carpet cleaner is recommended every three to six years, depending on the amount of traffic your rug/carpet experiences. This will bring out the vibrancy and richness of color as well as the softness of the wool.
Stain Removal
When a spill occurs, act immediately to prevent it from becoming a stain and reacting chemically with the rugs or carpets fibers and dyes. Scoop it up with a spoon or blunt knife. Scrape off any solids. Dilute the spill with water. Using a clean towel blot up as much of the moisture as possible working from the outer edge to the center. Dont rub, as this will spread the stain. Once the stain has been thoroughly blotted you may apply the stain removing solution provided below, with a clean dry cloth. Do not soak, and work from the outer edge to the center. Once the stain removing solution has been applied, pat dry with a clean cloth or paper towels. Dry the area with a fan or hair dryer and then brush the pile with a soft brush to restore it. On old and stubborn stains, repeat the process until the stain is completely removed.
