Oriental and Specialty* Rugs
Hand Washing
An oriental rug is a hand-knotted rug constructed of natural fibers. Oriental rugs are from the East while Occidental rugs are from the West. There are rugs that have piles and rugs that do not. Kilem rugs are examples of rugs that do not have a pile. Both rugs with piles and those without will have varying names based on the region or country in which they were constructed. Many of the design concepts from these rugs have been borrowed from all cultures and bear symbolic meaning. These rugs are true works of art and many precautionary measures must be taken when washing (cleaning) them.
It takes a great deal of time, training and study to understand and identify the complexity of hand-knotted rugs. It also takes years of studying fiber types, rug construction, knotting techniques, dye systems, geographic regions and cultures. These variables all have a dramatic impact on the way a rug is treated during a wash cycle. Knowing all variables ensures your rug is properly cared for from the moment it comes into our plant until its return to your home. DO NOT ALLOW THE CLEANING OF YOUR ORIENTAL AND OTHER FINE TEXTILES IN YOUR HOME! Understanding and respecting the weavers and their methods of rug construction and the environment in which these rugs were woven allows us to be at the top of a unique list of quality oriental rug washers. Washing a rug requires dusting, cleaning both front and back, controlled drying with proper equipment, and fringe cleaning. This cannot be accomplished at your home or place of business.
OUR CLEANING PROCESS
All oriental and specialty rugs go through our 50 point pre-cleaning inspection list, which is then explained to the customer.
After we thoroughly inspect your rugs, we offer as much of the following as may be relative to your valuables:
1. Identification of the country in which the rug was made, including a description of the region or city.
2. Identification and consultation on any necessary
repairs that will prolong the life of the rug.
3. The removal of dry particulate matter (Dusting), which causes the premature deterioration of rugs.
4. Thorough washing and rinsing, adhering to the washing guidelines established by the Wools of New Zealand Board and the National Institute of Rug Cleaning (NIRC).
5. Application of moth retardant to deter future damage by moths.
6. Multiple cleanings as required, to achieve maximum results, at no additional charge.
7. Fringe treatment and washing to restore the natural color of the fringe.
8. Grooming of the pile to provide a proper finish to the rug.
9. Drying of the rug in a controlled dry room environment with rug poles to retain shape.
10. Application of Stain Protection to repel soiling, if requested. (Extra charge)
How Long Does Your Rug Need to Be in Our Plant For Cleaning?
Our normal 'turn-around' time for your rugs in our plant is approximately 3 to 5 days. This varies depending on the soil level, the fiber type, the type of cleaning process or the extent of repair work being done. If there is a need to have your rug(s) back sooner, please make us aware of this and we will do our best to accommodate your time schedule.
* Specialty rugs include Navaho, Flokati, Hooked, Tufted, Dhurrie, Braid, Karastan, Wilton, Axminster, Stark, Edwards Fields and Custom-Bordered Rugs.
How Should I Care For My Area Rug(s)?
1. Padding (Underlayment or cushion).
Always place a high quality pad under all rugs, being careful to choose the type of pad that is suitable for the type of surface on which the rug will be displayed. The pad will aid in the prevention of premature wear or damage caused by regular traffic. Please see our Sales section for information on the underlayment we recommend and sell.
2. In Between Cleanings.
Vacuuming on a consistent basis will aid in the longevity of all your area rugs, both natural and synthetic fibers. Wool rugs especially, due to the composition of the outer layer of the wool fiber, trap large amounts of dry particulate matter. This abrasive and damaging matter can be removed by vacuuming. In fact, up to 80% of dry particulate matter can be removed from a rug through regular vacuuming. Be sure to keep vacuums away from fringe, as, over time, the brush rolls can "chew" up the fringe. Please note: When vacuuming oriental rugs and other area rugs with fringe, vacuum from side to side (opposite the fringes). This will save the fringes from being pulled up into the vacuum which can damage the fringes and even the vacuum. We have fringe rakes for sale in our plant, which can be used to remove soil from the fringes and also straighten them. Also rotate your rugs to balance out sunfading and to keep the traffic pattern distributed to all areas of the rug. Combine these steps with regular professional cleaning by a certified firm and your rugs can surely be passed on to the next generation!
3. Spotting.
Always address any spills immediately with a white cotton towel or other absorbent material. Absorb or tamp as much of the liquid up as possible. Once you are sure no more of the spill can be soaked up, use a gentle, preferably neutral, detergent solution to attempt a spot removal. See our Spotting Guide in the FYI section of this website for the appropriate mixtures and directions for specific spot removals. You may also use the interactive spotting guide found in the At Your Home or Business section of this website under Spot Removal. Do not use any over-the-counter or super market cleaners or spotting agents on your rugs as they can loosen dyes, remove dyes, or, in some cases, severely damage the fiber. CALL OUR OFFICE FOR FREE GUIDANCE!
4. Moths.
When an oriental rug is regularly vacuumed or located in a well-used room, it is less likely to have moth damage. Moths work in secluded, undisturbed areas, such as under a bed, skirted sofa or heavy furniture. When vacuuming, move furniture occasionally and clean under it. Homes not well ventilated or rooms closed for long periods of time are more likely to have moth problems. Moth damage can drastically reduce the value of an oriental rug.
5. Plants or Flowerpots.
Live plants and flowers requiring water should never be placed directly on an oriental rug. Dampness from the bottom of the pots will cause mildew and rot, gradually destroying the fibers and foundation of the rug and resulting in drastic damage to the rug. Plants should be in a stand, preferably on wheels, with space between the pot and the rug, allowing air to circulate. Use a container under the flowerpot to avoid water dripping onto the rug.
6. Storage.
Always store rugs inside the home at room temperature. Do not store in attics that can get too hot or in garages that can get damp as this could cause a rug to 'dry rot' and become brittle. Remember that wool can absorb up to 30% of its weight in water and still feel dry to the touch. We recommend wrapping in Tyvek for long-term storage.
