How To Maintain Persian Rugs
Caring for your rug means protecting more than just fabric — it means preserving art, culture, and history.
A Living Work of Art Deserves Proper Care
You probably think of your fitted carpets as just floor coverings — destined to be replaced eventually. But your Persian rug? That’s different. It’s a work of art. A cultural heirloom. Something you’d be proud to pass on.
I feel the same way about mine. And it’s why I’ve written this guide — to help you keep your rug looking beautiful now and for generations to come.
Whether your rug hails from Iran, the Caucasus, Turkey, or India, the tips below will help you protect its colours, fibres, and character for the long haul.
1. Protect Against Sunlight
The Enemy You Don’t See
Sunlight fades rugs — slowly, subtly, and unevenly. Left unchecked, it can strip your rug of its vibrancy.
Natural dyes soften into a warm patina. Done evenly, this can add character.
Synthetic dyes, however, fade fast — leaving dull patches and lifeless colours.
What You Can Do:
Rotate rugs regularly to ensure even fading.
Avoid placing rugs in direct sun — or use UV-protective window film.
Swap rugs between rooms throughout the year.
Pull curtains or blinds in unused rooms.
If you haven’t bought a rug yet, consider one dyed with natural vegetable or insect-based dyes.
2. Vacuum Like a Professional
It’s Not Just About Clean Floors
Vacuuming your rug removes abrasive grit that wears down the fibres as you walk across it. It’s the first — and most effective — line of defence.
Tools Matter:
Skip the trendy options. I use the SEBO BS36 — a commercial-grade upright vacuum with a beater bar. It’s powerful, reliable, and designed for wool pile. And no, I wouldn’t recommend a Dyson.
Here’s How:
Vacuum the rug’s top side in the direction of the pile.
Flip it over and vacuum the back — this vibrates dry soil out of the foundation.
Move the rug, sweep or vacuum the grit left behind.
Repeat until the floor beneath the rug is clean.
Gently vacuum fringes with a brush attachment.
Take your time. Done properly, you’ll be amazed at how much hidden soil comes out.
3. Prevent Wear and Tear
Walked-on Art Needs Protection
Rugs wear unevenly when left in one place for too long. Combine foot traffic with ground-in soil, and you’ve got a recipe for threadbare patches.
Simple Ways to Protect Your Rug:
Rotate it often.
Vacuum it regularly.
Use rug underlay to cushion impact and prevent slipping.
Choose the right underlay for your floor type.
Cut underlay so the rug overhangs it by 1 inch all around.
Replace it when it loses its grip or cushion.
These small steps will extend your rug’s life and keep it looking richer for longer.
4. Deal with Spills the Right Way
Panic Ruins Rugs. Preparation Saves Them.
The most common mistake? Rubbing a spill with harsh chemicals like Vanish or Oxiclean. These are oxidisers — not stain removers — and they can bleach your rug permanently.
Do this instead:
Stay calm.
Blot the spill gently with dry paper towels — don’t rub.
Check for dye transfer. If there is, stop here and call us.
If no dye comes up, blot with a damp white towel to dilute.
Repeat the dry blotting.
Still unsure? Call us — we’re happy to offer free advice.
Pro tip: Rugs with our stain protection treatment are far easier to clean in a crisis. It’s one of the most affordable ways to safeguard your rug at home.
5. Avoid Mildew and Dry Rot
Water and Wool Don’t Mix
Nothing ruins a rug faster than being wet for too long. Mildew sets in quickly, and dry rot eats away at the foundation — usually cotton — until your rug needs costly repairs.
Common Culprits:
Potted plants left directly on rugs.
Basement or garage storage without airflow.
Major spills or flooding that go unnoticed.
What to do:
Keep rugs off damp floors and away from walls.
Never put a plant directly on a rug.
If rugs get soaked, dry them fast or call a professional.
Planning to store your rug? Have it professionally cleaned and wrapped in breathable material like Tyvek® — never plastic.
6. Watch for Moths
Small Bugs. Big Damage.
The clothes moth is one of the greatest threats to natural fibre rugs. Left unchecked, they’ll eat away at wool and silk with devastating results.
We’ve written a full guide on how to spot and prevent moth damage, including safe storage techniques and natural repellents.
Still Have Questions?
You don’t need to be an expert to care for your rug. But a little knowledge goes a long way.
If you’re unsure about anything — from cleaning methods to how to store a rug long-term — get in touch. We’re always happy to offer free, honest advice. Because great rug care starts with trusted information.
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