TL;DR: Oriental rugs are more than just décor; they’re investments requiring regular care. Regular cleaning preserves their longevity, air quality, and vibrant colors. Different cleaning methods exist, from hand washing to professional services, each suited to the rug’s material and condition. DIY maintenance tips like vacuuming, rotating, using rug pads, and addressing spills promptly complement professional cleaning. Ultimately, proper care ensures your oriental rugs remain beautiful and cherished for years. 

It’s not just about the art and decor with oriental rugs. They also represent a significant investment on your part, which doesn’t end once you purchase the rug. You must regularly care for and maintain it to preserve its longevity and visual allure.
In this guide, we’ll explain the importance of oriental rug cleaning and the benefits it brings to rug owners. From understanding the unique characteristics of these precious rugs to delving into the professional cleaning process, we’ll provide valuable insights to help you make informed decisions for your cherished rugs.

The Importance of Oriental Rug Cleaning

Oriental rugs are typically handmade and crafted with intricate designs and delicate fibers. The usual culprits, such as dust, dirt, and other pollutants, settle on the rug over time, affecting its appearance and, much more importantly, the rug’s structural integrity. 

It’s not difficult to deal with these contaminants by engaging in regular cleaning and maintenance so that your rug remains in pristine condition. 

Here’s exactly why oriental rug cleaning matters:

• Extended Longevity. A key advantage of regularly keeping your oriental rug clean and fresh is that it’ll serve you much longer. Particles like dust and dirt can settle not just on the surface but also get deep into the rug’s fibers, deteriorating them slowly and weakening the structure of the rug. Getting rid of such particles helps you prevent wear and tear and prolongs the lifespan of your rug.
• Improved Air Quality. Oriental rugs act as filters, trapping airborne pollutants and allergens within their fibers. As pollutants accumulate, they become airborne, eventually compromising the air quality inside your home. You can solve this particular issue simply by establishing a regular cleaning routine. 
• Preserve Beauty and Colors. One of the most appealing aspects of these rugs is their vibrant colors and complex patterns. As time goes by, these colors tend to fade, losing their luster if you don’t show them the proper care. Regular cleaning helps to remove dirt and stains that can dull the rug’s colors, reserving its beauty and ensuring that it remains a focal point in your home.

Understanding Oriental Rug Cleaning Methods

When it comes to cleaning oriental rugs, it’s crucial to understand the different methods available. While some rugs can be safely cleaned at home, others may require professional assistance to avoid potential damage. Let’s explore the various cleaning methods and their suitability for different types of rugs.

Hand Washing vs. Machine Washing

The cleaning method used for oriental rugs depends on the rug’s materials, construction, and condition. Hand washing is often recommended for delicate and valuable rugs, as it allows for a more personalized and gentle approach. This method involves carefully shampooing and rinsing the rug, ensuring that every fiber is thoroughly cleaned.

If you have more durable rugs that can handle the strain of the mechanical process, you can freely have them machine-washed. However, you must choose a reputable rug cleaning service that uses industrial-sized washing machines designed specifically for rugs. Improper machine washing can lead to color bleeding, fiber damage, and even the disintegration of the rug.

Vacuuming and Spot Cleaning

While washing is crucial, other methods that are easier to perform, like vacuuming and spot cleaning, are also essential for maintaining the cleanliness of your oriental rug. You should vacuum your rugs regularly, with the optimal frequency at least once, preferably twice per week. 

The vacuum cleaner you use is also important to avoid damage to the fibers, the best being one featuring adjustable suction and/or a brushless attachment.  

Spot cleaning should be performed immediately when spills or stains occur. Using a clean cloth doused in mild detergent, blot the area carefully. Make sure to avoid rubbing the stain as that might spread it instead of removing it. It’s a great idea to test your cleaning solution first, focusing on a small area of the rug that’s hidden from sight. 

Professional Oriental Rug Cleaning

While regular vacuuming and spot cleaning are crucial for day-to-day maintenance, professional oriental rug cleaning is recommended at least once a year. With special gear, an array of different cleaning solutions, and the appropriate expertise and experience, professional rug cleaners are your best bet to deep clean and revitalize your oriental rug.

Professional oriental rug cleaning is the method of choice compared to anything you could perform yourself. Professionals possess extensive knowledge and experience in handling different types of oriental rugs, ensuring that your rug is treated with the utmost care. They start by assessing the rug’s condition, pinpointing any areas in need of attention, and performing a customized cleaning process accordingly.

Professional services also have access to gear and solutions that you couldn’t get without a special license. These tools and products are exceedingly effective at dealing with even the most stubborn stains, deep-seated dirt, and odors while not affecting the ug’s fibers or colors in the process.

Choosing a Professional Rug Cleaner

When selecting a professional rug cleaner, you must do thorough research in order to choose a reputable and experienced company. Look for certifications that guarantee that these professionals have undergone rigorous training and follow industry best practices.

Browsing through customer reviews and testimonials to gauge their experience with a specific service is a great way to gain insight into what they offer. Additionally, consider the cleaner’s location and whether they offer pick-up and delivery services, as transporting large, delicate rugs can be challenging.

DIY Oriental Rug Cleaning Tips

Taking care of your oriental rug is best handled by professionals, but that doesn’t mean you can’t contribute on your own. The following DIY tips will help you extend the lifespan of your rug and reduce the frequency of professional maintenance: 

1. Regular Maintenance. Regular vacuuming is the most important aspect of oriental rug maintenance. A vacuum cleaner featuring adjustable suction is optimal for completely removing surface dirt and debris. Remember to vacuum both sides of the rug thoroughly.
2. Rotate The Rug(s). Any rug, even the most expensive oriental one, will wear over time, especially in high-foot-traffic areas. To avoid this, rotate your oriental rug by 45 degrees twice a year. This helps evenly distribute factors that affect the rug’s condition, like foot traffic and sunlight exposure.
3. Protect Your Rug. Rug pads placed underneath your oriental rug are great at preventing it from slipping. They’re also instrumental in reducing the friction between the rug and the floor, extending its lifespan. Avoid placing heavy furniture directly on the rug, as this might result in indentations and subsequent damage to the fibers.
4. Address Spills Immediately. If you want to avoid permanent damage, you must be quick to address spills on your oriental rug. Use the blotting technique described above, and if the stain persists, seek professional assistance.

Conclusion

You cannot underestimate the importance of oriental rug cleaning in preserving the beauty and longevity of your oriental rugs. Actions such as vacuuming and spot cleaning on a regular basis, as well as employing professional cleaning services, ensure the pristine condition of your oriental rug. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you can enjoy your oriental rugs for years to come, making them a cherished part of your home.

For more information about professional oriental rug cleaning, reach out to our professionals at Doug’s Carpet and Upholstery Care. Get exceptional service and the utmost professionalism in preserving the beauty of your oriental rugs!