How to Care for Your Handwoven Rugs: A Complete Guide

Handwoven rugs are more than just decorative pieces; they are works of art that can last for generations when cared for properly. Each rug, whether it’s an intricately woven Persian, a colorful Turkish kilim, or a tribal Moroccan piece, carries with it the skill and craftsmanship of its weaver. To ensure that these treasures retain their beauty, here’s a guide on how to care for your handwoven rugs.

Regular Vacuuming

Why it's important: Dust and dirt can accumulate deep in the fibers of handwoven rugs, causing them to wear out prematurely. Regular vacuuming helps remove this debris.

How to do it right:

• For pile rugs (like Persian or oriental rugs), vacuum with care using a vacuum cleaner with adjustable suction to avoid damaging the fibers.
• For flat-weave rugs (like kilims and dhurries), use a vacuum without a beater bar, which can pull on threads and cause damage.
• Always vacuum both sides of the rug. Dust can penetrate through the surface, and flipping the rug ensures a thorough clean.

Rotate Regularly

Why it's important: Handwoven rugs placed in high-traffic areas tend to wear unevenly. Direct sunlight can also fade colors over time.

How to do it right:

• Rotate your rug 180 degrees every few months to even out wear from foot traffic and sunlight exposure.
• If possible, use blinds or UV-filtering window treatments in rooms with abundant sunlight to prevent color fading.

Address Spills Immediately

Why it's important: Stains are much easier to deal with when addressed quickly. Letting a spill sit can lead to deep stains that are difficult to remove.

How to do it right:

• Blot (don’t rub!) the spill immediately with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel to absorb as much liquid as possible.
• For tougher stains, use a mixture of water and mild dish soap. Avoid harsh chemicals or cleaners, as they can damage the fibers or fade the dyes.
• Always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous part of the rug to ensure it won’t cause damage.

Use Rug Underlays

Why it's important: Rug underlays help prevent slipping, reduce wear, and protect the rug from moisture on hard surfaces.

How to do it right:

• Choose an underlay specifically designed for the type of floor your rug will be on, whether it's hardwood, tile, or carpet.
• The underlay should be slightly smaller than the rug to prevent edges from curling.
• Underlays also provide a cushion, which can add comfort and prolong the rug's life.

The Nomads Tent supplies a range of underlays suitable for various types of floors to help you get the best protection for your rug.

Rotate Furniture on the Rug

Why it's important: Heavy furniture can cause depressions or even tears in the rug’s fibers over time.

How to do it right:

• Rearrange furniture periodically to prevent heavy items from leaving permanent marks or indentations on your rug.
• Consider using furniture coasters under the legs of chairs, sofas, or tables to distribute weight more evenly across the surface of the rug.

Deep Cleaning

Why it's important: Over time, dirt and oils from daily use can accumulate, dulling the vibrancy of your rug’s colors.

How to do it right:

• Aim to have your handwoven rug professionally cleaned every 1-3 years, depending on how much traffic it sees.
• Always choose a professional cleaner who specializes in handwoven rugs. Standard carpet cleaning techniques can be too harsh.
• In between professional cleanings, consider using a handheld vacuum or brush to gently clean the surface and fringes of the rug.

At The Nomads Tent, we offer a professional rug cleaning service to keep your rug looking vibrant and pristine.

Store Your Rug Properly

Why it's important: If you need to store your rug for any reason, improper storage can lead to damage from pests, moisture, or light.

How to do it right:

• Always roll, never fold, your rug for storage to prevent creases or damage to the fibers.
• Use a breathable, cotton sheet to wrap the rug before storing it to protect it from dust and pests. Avoid plastic wrapping, as it can trap moisture.
• Store the rug in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Fringe Maintenance

Why it's important: The fringes of handwoven rugs are delicate and can easily become tangled or damaged.

How to do it right:

• Avoid vacuuming the fringes directly, as they can get caught in the vacuum and tear.
• Straighten fringes manually using your fingers or a comb to keep them neat and prevent knots.
• If the fringes are particularly worn, consult a professional restorer to have them repaired or reinforced.

For expert fringe repair and restoration, check out our rug repair services.

Preventing Moths and Pests

Why it's important: Handwoven rugs, especially those made from wool, are susceptible to moth damage.

How to do it right:

• Regularly vacuum under the rug and around the edges to remove larvae or eggs.
• Use moth pheromone traps, cedar blocks or natural moth repellents like lavender sachets to deter pests.
• If you notice moths or damage, consider having the rug treated by a professional immediately.

We supply a variety of moth products to protect your rugs as well as providing a freezing service, and you can also read our blog on how to spot moths and what to do to stay informed.

Repair and Restoration

Why it's important: Over time, even well-maintained rugs can show signs of wear, tears, or unraveling.

How to do it right:

• If you notice any signs of damage, like loose threads or small tears, have your rug repaired by a specialist before the problem worsens.
• Professional restorers can repair holes, secure loose selvedges, reweave damaged sections, and repair damaged or unsightly fringes.

For quality rug repair and restoration, consider our rug repair services to restore your treasured handwoven rug to its former glory.

Conclusion

Handwoven rugs are timeless pieces that, with the right care, can be enjoyed for generations. By following these tips, you can preserve their beauty, craftsmanship, and value for years to come. Regular maintenance, mindful cleaning, and professional care are the keys to ensuring that your rug remains a vibrant, cherished part of your home.