How to Prepare Your Rugs for Professional Cleaning

Oriental rugs are known for their beauty, intricate designs, and exceptional craftsmanship. They can elevate the appearance of any space, but their delicate nature requires careful maintenance. Cleaning Oriental rugs is not as simple as cleaning standard carpets, and mistakes during the process can lead to irreversible damage. In this blog, we’ll discuss the most common mistakes people make when cleaning Oriental rugs and how to avoid them to preserve their charm and longevity.

1. Harsh Chemicals

Most commonly, people are guilty of applying harsh cleaning chemicals to Oriental rugs. These chemicals take away the natural oils from the fibers, fade bright colors, and weaken the entire rug structure. Be sure to clean with gentle pH-balanced cleaning agents that are suited for delicate textures.

2. Saturating Too Much

Oriental rugs should never be over-saturated with water. Excessive moisture can cause the dyes to bleed, weaken the rug's backing, and lead to mould or mildew growth. When cleaning, use minimal water and dry the rug thoroughly to prevent these issues.

3. Scrubbing Too Aggressively

Another common mistake is scrubbing a rug too hard. This may damage the fibers, distort the weave, and cause the intricate designs to lose their sharpness. Instead, use gentle blotting motions to remove stains or dirt.

4. Ignoring the Type of Fiber

Not all Oriental rugs are made of the same material. Wool, silk, and cotton are common fibers, and each requires a specific cleaning approach. For instance, silk rugs are more delicate than wool rugs and should be handled with extreme care. Failure to consider the fiber type can lead to damage during cleaning.

5. Using the Wrong Cleaning Equipment

Oriental rugs need to be vacuumed, but improper vacuum settings or attachments can damage the rug. Avoid using strong rotating brushes on vacuum cleaners because they tend to pull on the fibers and cause fraying. Instead, use a suction-only vacuum or a handheld vacuum to clean gently.

6. Not Spot Testing Cleaning Solutions

Applying a cleaning solution directly to the whole rug without first spot testing is a critical mistake. Some solutions can cause discoloration or damage to certain dyes. To avoid such issues, it’s best to consult a Professional Rug Cleaner who can recommend the safest approach. Always test a small, inconspicuous area of the rug first to ensure the solution is safe to use.

7. Not Acting Quickly Enough on Stains

Untreated stains can be left for a long time, making them harder to remove and risking permanent damage. Blot the spill immediately with a clean cloth and apply a safe cleaning solution to minimize the impact.

8. Drying the Rug Improperly

Improper drying of an Oriental rug can lead to mould, mildew, and odor problems. Rugs should be dried flat in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. Hanging a wet rug can cause stretching and distortion.

9. Failure to Address Pet Damage

Pet stains and odors are common issues, but failing to address them promptly can cause long-term damage to an Oriental rug. Pet urine, for instance, can weaken the fibers and cause discoloration. Use a gentle cleaning solution immediately and consider consulting a professional for deep cleaning if necessary.

10. Skipping Regular Maintenance

Regular vacuuming and turning the rug prevent dirt from piling up and wearing out unevenly. Omitting this process can make some parts of the rug deteriorate more rapidly than others.

Conclusion

Oriental rugs require patient care and detailed attention. Preventing these mistakes will help you preserve your rug's beauty and value over the years. But if you're unsure, it's always best to consult a professional who specializes in the cleaning of Oriental rugs to keep your treasured piece in the right hands.