Persian Rug Cleaning & Maintenance
How to Care for a Work of Art Built to Last Generations
A Persian rug is not simply décor; it is a living artwork. Each knot carries history, technique, and human expression. Proper rug care ensures the piece ages gracefully, preserving its color, softness, and structural integrity over time.
Below is a practical guide rooted in how collectors, restorers, and specialists approach long-term carpet care.
1. Regular Vacuuming
The simplest habit with the greatest impact
Dust and grit gradually settle deep into wool fibers. This internal friction, more than foot traffic, causes long-term wear. Gentle vacuuming is the foundation of effective rug maintenance.
How to vacuum safely:
Use low suction
Use a flat or soft-brush attachment
Vacuum in the direction of the pile
Avoid fringes completely
A flat attachment, such as those used with Dyson vacuum,s is well suited for delicate rugs.
Collector tip:
A light weekly vacuum is far better than aggressive monthly cleaning.
2. Spot Cleaning
Respond quickly; timing matters
When spills occur, the objective is to absorb liquid, not spread it.
Do:
Blot immediately with a clean, absorbent cloth
Work from the outer edge toward the center
Test any solution on a hidden area first
Avoid:
Rubbing
Scrubbing
Heat
Use only mild detergent and water. For gentle stain work, products such as Folex may be used cautiously and always tested first.
3. Professional Cleaning
Every few years, your rug needs expert care
Even excellent home carpet care cannot replace professional washing. Specialists hand-wash rugs using soft water, mild detergents, and controlled drying to prevent dye bleeding, shrinkage, stiffness, and mold.
When to schedule professional cleaning:
Every 2–4 years with regular use
Immediately after flooding, pet accidents, or heavy staining
Professional cleaning revitalizes color and restores the wool’s natural sheen.
4. Rotation & Placement
Even wear extends longevity
Leaving a rug in the same position for years causes uneven wear and fading. Rotating every 6–12 months promotes balanced aging and discourages insects, which prefer undisturbed wool.
5. Avoid Direct Sunlight
Natural dyes need balance
Prolonged sunlight can fade even the finest dyes. Protect rugs by using curtains or UV-filtering blinds, rotating placement, and airing rugs only in shaded areas.
Graceful aging is desirable; uneven fading is not.
6. Proper Storage
How collectors store rugs for decades
When storing rugs:
Roll with the pile inward
Never fold, as creases weaken fibers
Store in a cool, dry environment
Wrap in breathable cotton or wool
Avoid plastic, which traps moisture
Cedar blocks or natural repellents help discourage insects.
7. Repair & Restoration
Early intervention preserves value
Fraying edges, thinning areas, or loose knots should be addressed promptly. Skilled artisans can stabilize and restore rugs without altering character or originality.
Small repairs prevent irreversible loss.
8. Insect Protection
Moths target neglected wool
Insects are drawn to rugs that are dirty or undisturbed. Prevent infestation through regular rug care, periodic rotation, proper lighting, and occasional inspection of the underside.
9. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Strong cleaners cause permanent damage
Bleach, ammonia, and high-pH cleaners can strip dyes and weaken wool fibers. Always use mild solutions or consult professionals when unsure.
10. Use a Rug Pad for Protection
A simple addition that makes a major difference
A quality rug backing reduces friction, prevents slipping, protects flooring, adds comfort, improves insulation, and keeps rugs lying flat.
For performance and durability, pads such as Teebaud work well beneath Persian carpets and rugs with backing on all flooring types.
11. Consult Experts When Unsure
Because Persian rugs deserve informed care
When facing uncertain stains, odors, color changes, or structural issues, consulting a rug specialist ensures proper treatment and avoids costly mistakes.
Preserve the Art, Honor the Craft
With thoughtful rug maintenance, careful placement, and occasional professional care, a Persian rug matures beautifully. Proper carpet care transforms a rug from a possession into a legacy—one that carries beauty, history, and craftsmanship forward for generations.