Caring For Your Rug
Daily maintenance:
Rugs should be brushed or vacuumed with a suction-only machine regularly to prevent the build up of damaging dust and grit. Rugs should also be turned frequently to even out any wear areas that may be occurring.Avoid, if possible, placing heavy furniture on rugs. If unavoidable place furniture cups under small or sharp pointed feet.
Dealing with accidents:
With any spillage or accident involving liquids speed is of the essence. Immediately blot with plain paper kitchen towels, soaking up the liquid until dry.Any spillage involving food etc. scrape up the solids with a plastic spatula or knife and then blot up the damp residue with kitchen towels.
If any residue is left, a solution of carpet shampoo and warm water with a teaspoonful of white vinegar can be used. Carefully blot with a cloth soaked and well squeezed out. Allow to dry and vacuum. Carefully comb the pile in its natural direction to remove any matting.
Do not be tempted to throw on anything like salt/soap powder/white wine on red etc. This will only exacerbate the problem, as most of these so-called quick fixes are worse than useless.
Moth and other pests:
Damage from moth larvae and other household rug-eating pests can be avoided as long as the rug is cleaned regularly (brushing or vacuuming) and is exposed to light i.e. not hidden under never-moved furniture.If moth grubs are discovered, immediately vacuum and, if possible place the rug in a deep freezer! Not as daft as it sounds as this is guaranteed to destroy the little blighters! Send the rug to a professional cleaner to completely ensure that any evidence of moth is removed.
Damp, heat and strong sunlight:
Avoid any of the following, if possible: damp is the enemy of oriental rugs as they are always made from natural materials-wool, cotton, silk, which are susceptible to rot through dampness.Intense heat, i.e. in front of an open fire, is generally bad for rugs as it dries out the natural oils in wool making it weak and brittle.
Direct sunlight can cause fading over a number of years. Whilst some fading is often desirable, too much ruins the look of the rug. A simple solution to potential fading is to draw the curtains when the room is not in use.
Cats and dogs:
Potentially a big problem! If left unattended, untrained pets can use a rug as a scratching or a chewing spot, or worse still as their toilet. Whilst most physical damage can be repaired, pet urine, if left uncleaned, can cause severe damage in the form of rotting and discolouration. Unless your pet is completely trained and trustworthy don't let it near your rug!
Any questions or problems can be answered by phoning
Oriental Rugs of Bath on 01225 465558
or by emailing: awebb@orientalrugsofbath.com
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