How to Properly Clean an Oriental Rug
If you have an oriental rug, cleaning it will ensure its longevity. It can last for many generations, and cleaning them with acid based cleaners is a good idea every now and then. However, there are also many other ways to clean them, such as occasionally vacuuming or sponging them with a clean rag. carpet cleaning near me
Techniques
Oriental rugs require special care, and it’s important to know how to clean them properly. Whether you’re cleaning a wool rug or a silk rug, different techniques and products are required for different types of materials. The proper cleaning methods will ensure the longevity of your rugs. Here are some of the most important tips to keep your rugs looking their best.
When cleaning a rug, avoid using harsh chemicals. Using the wrong solution may leave stains on the rug that are difficult to remove. The Association of Specialists in Cleaning and Restoration (ASCR) recommends that you use the correct cleaning methods. However, if you’re unsure of the right technique, you can also hire a professional oriental rug cleaning company.
Cost
A professional oriental rug cleaner will charge you anywhere from $3 to $8 per square foot, depending on the size, material, and age of the rug. You should also consider the amount of traffic the rug experiences when choosing a cleaner. Regular vacuuming is a good idea to remove dirt and sand, which will reduce the color and fibers over time.
Specialty rugs are expensive, so you may want to insure them with homeowners’ insurance. You may also want to have them appraised, which could cost anywhere from $170 to $530. Generally, oriental rugs do not require a lot of scrubbing. Once or twice a year, you should give them a good shake and vacuum them.
Preventative maintenance
One of the best ways to keep your Oriental rug in top shape is to avoid exposing it to direct sunlight. Exposure to sunlight can permanently fade dyes in Oriental rugs. To avoid this, rotate your rug frequently and consider installing window shades or tint. Keep in mind that sunlight is most damaging during periods when air humidity is low. In Texas, this typically occurs in the early spring and early winter. Rotating your rug regularly will help prevent the damage from occurring permanently.
When cleaning your oriental rug, use a vacuum with a low-pile attachment. Be careful not to vacuum the fringes, as this can damage them. If you notice that the fringes are discolored, consider hiring a professional rug cleaner.
Color bleed
Color bleeding after oriental rug cleaning can be a serious problem. It happens when dyes in the rug run from the darker to lighter sections. If you’ve ever had this problem, you know how frustrating it can be. Luckily, there are some steps you can take to prevent color bleeding.
Identifying the source of color bleed is the first step to preventing it. You can perform a pretest to check for fugitive dyes, poor surface coloration, or painting. During this test, you should focus on darker colors and major colored areas of the rug. You can use a white towel, dampened with tap water, to check for color bleeding.
Damage caused by scrubbing
Scrubbing an Oriental rug can damage its fibers. Scrubbing can cause the fibers to break down, wear, and shred. Instead of scrubbing, use a softer cloth to remove the dirt and moisture. Afterward, dry the rug with a clean towel. Do not rub too hard or use too much pressure as this can cause mold growth and other problems.
Oriental rugs are made of natural materials such as wool, silk, and cotton. Heat can dry out the natural oils in these materials, making them weak. To prevent this, keep them away from direct sunlight. If you do have to clean your rug, it is a good idea to use a specialized oriental rug cleaning solution.