Nick Gonnella

Can You Wash a Persian Rug at Home? Thinking of washing your Persian rug yourself? Here’s what you need to know before reaching for the hose. We explain when DIY cleaning works, when it doesn’t, and how to avoid costly damage. Can You Wash a Persian Rug at Home? Many rug owners wonder if they can wash their Persian or oriental rug at home. Maybe it looks a little dull. Maybe the dog had an accident. Maybe someone knocked over a glass of wine. And if you’re thinking, “Surely I can sort this out with a bit of water and elbow grease,” we understand. But before you unroll your rug onto the patio or fill up the bath, there’s a lot to consider. Because while home cleaning is technically possible, it’s rarely advisable—and in many cases, it does more harm than good. What Makes Persian Rugs So Delicate? Persian rugs aren’t your average floor covering. They’re made from natural fibres like wool and silk, often dyed with unstable natural or synthetic pigments. They’re woven by hand, with intricate knotting and structural integrity that can be compromised by excess moisture, heat, or rough handling. Here’s what sets them apart: Natural fibres absorb water quickly and can shrink or warp if not dried correctly. Dyes may bleed or migrate, especially reds, blues, and dark tones. Fringes are fragile and prone to fraying or tearing under agitation. Soil sits deep in the pile, where regular vacuuming doesn’t reach. The result? A rug that looks durable but is incredibly sensitive to moisture, agitation, and temperature—all elements involved in DIY cleaning. The Myth of Vacuuming and Spot Cleaning Routine maintenance is essential and encouraged. But don’t confuse vacuuming or surface cleaning with deep cleaning. Vacuum regularly, in the direction of the pile. Avoid vacuuming fringes, as they can get caught and unravel. Blot spills—never rub, and always call for advice if in doubt. Spot cleaning can work for very minor spills, especially if your rug has been treated with a protector. But never scrub or soak a spot—moisture spreads, and so do unstable dyes. What to Do Instead Trust a professional rug cleaner with proper equipment and knowledge. We do more than just clean—we protect, preserve, and prolong the life of your rug. Our process includes: Thorough inspection and dye testing Dry soil removal using mechanical or hand methods Immersion washing with cold, softened water Controlled drying to prevent shrinkage, fading, or browning And all of it is done safely, precisely, and with care that no home method can match. All Posts Advice News Reviews Can You Wash a Persian Rug at Home? Read More A Tale of Two Rugs in Notting Hill Read More Viscose Rug Cleaning & Maintenance Tips Read More Newsletter Sign up to get the latest news and rug care tips Name Email Δ

Viscose Rug Cleaning & Maintenance Tips Learn what makes viscose different, how to maintain it at home, and what to expect from professional viscose rug cleaning — before you risk damaging a delicate fibre. What Is Viscose? Viscose is often described as “natural” because it’s made from plant materials, but that only tells half the story. In truth, viscose is chemically processed cellulose, a fibre made from plant material such as wood pulp created using strong chemicals like sodium hydroxide and sulphuric acid. The result? A fibre that mimics the softness of silk, but lacks its resilience. It’s more accurate to call viscose a semi-synthetic material, halfway between nature and industry. Although often marketed as natural because its source is plant-based, the heavy chemical processing makes it far from truly natural. If you’re curious about how viscose is made, this guide by O Ecotextiles offers a deeper dive. The Many Faces of Viscose You may not always see the word viscose on a rug label, as they are often marketed under different names, including: Bamboo Silk Banana Silk Plant Silk Art Silk (Artificial Silk) Rayon These names can cause confusion, leading many buyers to believe they are purchasing genuine silk when they are not. The Hidden Downsides of Viscose Rugs When we first started cleaning in Central London, viscose rugs were a rarity. Now, in some of the most prestigious addresses we serve, it’s not unusual for 80% of the rugs to be viscose. Why the shift? Clients and designers often tell us they like the silk-like sheen, appreciate the lower cost compared to true silk, or enjoy the variety of colours and modern designs. And at first glance, viscose rugs are stunning. But there’s a hidden cost — one that often becomes clear the first time someone spills a glass of water. Imagine buying a beautiful new rug — soft, luminous, and perfect for your space. Six months later, a few dark spots appear. Maybe a careless vacuum has left drag marks across the pile.Humidity from a nearby window discolours one corner. A small water spill blooms into a large, rough-textured patch. This is not rare. This is viscose. Problems You Can Expect Weak fibres: Viscose crushes, blooms, and discolours easily. Low long-term value: Even costly viscose rugs don’t hold resale value. High maintenance needs: Regular cleaning and extreme care are essential. Environmental concerns: Viscose manufacturing is resource-heavy and chemically intensive. At The Persian Rug Cleaning Company, we’ve seen viscose rugs priced at £20,000 that lose their looks, and value, within a few years. How to Protect a Viscose Rug (Before It’s Too Late) Viscose rugs can be cleaned, but expectations must be realistic. When we clean viscose rugs, we can: Thoroughly sanitise and decontaminate them (especially after floods or pet accidents). Improve their appearance — but only to the extent that the fibre damage allows. Unlike wool or silk, once viscose fibres are blown, bloomed, or discoloured, they cannot be fully restored. We tell our clients honestly: We can clean your rug beautifully. But we cannot undo what viscose itself cannot withstand. If you already own a viscose rug, or can’t resist buying one, here’s how to give it the best chance: Apply a professional rug protector immediately –This treatment helps spills bead on the surface rather than soaking in. Vacuum gently, with a brushless suction head – No beater bars, no aggressive passes. Control humidity levels indoors – High moisture can cause yellowing and discolouration over time. Act quickly on spills – Even clean water can cause permanent blooming. All Posts Advice News Reviews Can You Wash a Persian Rug at Home? Read More A Tale of Two Rugs in Notting Hill Read More Viscose Rug Cleaning & Maintenance Tips Read More Newsletter Sign up to get the latest news and rug care tips Name Email Δ

Rug Cleaning Myths: What’s Fact, What’s Folklore From dye bleed fears to the belief that rugs should never be washed, misinformation in the world of rug care is common — and costly. This article quietly dispels the most persistent myths, so household managers and discerning clients can make informed decisions based on knowledge, not fear. Clearing the Confusion Around Professional Rug Cleaning Over the years, we’ve encountered many hesitations — often from well-meaning household managers who’ve been told their rug cannot be washed, or that professional cleaning is too risky. These myths, though common, can cause real harm. Rugs go uncleaned for decades. Soil accumulates. Damage becomes irreversible. This article addresses a few of the most persistent misconceptions — quietly and clearly — so that your decisions can be based on truth, not fear. Myth 1: Washing Rugs Damages Them Truth: Professional washing is the most effective way to preserve a rug’s life. We understand the concern. A rug may feel too fragile to immerse. But the greatest risk isn’t washing — it’s neglect. Soil is abrasive. Over time, it acts like sandpaper, wearing down wool and silk fibres with every step. Without periodic, specialist washing, even the finest rugs degrade from the inside out. Done properly, with expert hands and the right conditions, washing restores—not harms. Myth 2: Some Rugs Should Never Be Washed Truth: Most rugs can be safely cleaned, even those with unstable dyes — if handled correctly. Clients are often told that rugs from Tabriz, Isfahan, or Nain should be left untouched due to dye bleed risk. It’s true that these rugs frequently contain fugitive dyes. But it’s also true that these are often the very rugs most in need of washing — especially if they’ve been exposed to spills, humidity, or pet accidents. The key lies in expert dye testing, patient immersion techniques, and—when needed—a specialist strip wash to stabilise and lift dye migration safely. If someone advises you not to wash such a rug, the issue may lie with their methods, not the rug. In many cases, we’re the second opinion that gives owners confidence to proceed. Myth 3: Silk Rugs Should Be Dry Cleaned Truth: Dry cleaning is a clothing method — not a rug care strategy. A silk tie and a silk rug are not the same. Yet this misunderstanding persists, often encouraged by well-intentioned cleaners without the right tools or training. Dry cleaning may remove surface dirt, but it does little for embedded soil. Worse, it leaves behind chemical residues and stiffens the pile — especially in viscose, bamboo silk, or mercerised cotton rugs often mistaken for true silk. True silk can absolutely be washed. In fact, it should be — gently, thoroughly, and quickly dried in a centrifuge to preserve the softness and sheen. We do it often. And carefully. Myth 4: Rugs Can Be Properly Cleaned In the Home Truth: True cleaning requires a controlled environment — and specialised equipment. It’s tempting to believe that a rug can be cleaned where it lies. But home-based cleaning, no matter how careful, simply cannot deliver what’s needed. Dusting: The most important step is dry soil removal. This can’t be done with a vacuum — it requires purpose-built equipment to lift grit trapped deep in the foundation. Flushing & rinsing: Rugs must be thoroughly rinsed after washing, to prevent re-soiling and dye issues. Water removal: A centrifuge, similar to a washing machine’s spin cycle, extracts excess moisture. Without it, drying is too slow — increasing risks of shrinkage, dye bleed, and stiff pile. In short: at-home rug cleaning is convenience over care. It isn’t safe for serious textiles. And it’s not what we do. Myth 5: “My Rug Looks Clean – So It Doesn’t Need Cleaning” Truth: The most dangerous soil is the kind you can’t see. By the time a rug looks soiled on the surface, the foundation beneath may already be laden with abrasive grit and debris. This isn’t a scare tactic — it’s simply the nature of rugs. Their density hides wear until it’s too late. Professional cleaning is about protection, not appearances. Waiting for visible dirt is like waiting for a toothache to visit the dentist. In Summary We understand how these myths take root. Many of them are rooted in caution or advice given by cleaners without the tools to do more. But experience tells a different story. Every week, we meet clients who were told their rug was too delicate to wash. And every week, we return those rugs restored, stabilised, and deeply clean — often for the first time in decades. You don’t have to risk your rug. But you also don’t have to leave it to fade quietly into disrepair. We’re here to help you choose confidently, and to care for your rugs with the discretion and skill they deserve. All Posts Advice News Reviews Can You Wash a Persian Rug at Home? Can You Wash a Persian Rug at Home? Thinking of washing your Persian rug yourself? Here’s what you need to… A Tale of Two Rugs in Notting Hill A Tale of Two Rugs in Notting Hill Every rug has its own story. Sometimes, even rugs picked up just… Viscose Rug Cleaning & Maintenance Tips Viscose Rug Cleaning & Maintenance Tips Learn what makes viscose different, how to maintain it at home, and what to… Newsletter Sign up to get the latest news and rug care tips Name Email Δ

Introduction to Common Rug Motifs Explore the symbolic stories woven into the world’s most enduring rug patterns. Why Rug Motifs Matter For many rug lovers, the beauty of a hand-knotted carpet is in its texture, colour, or craftsmanship. But for us — and perhaps now for you — the real magic lies in the motifs. Motifs are more than just decorative flourishes. They’re clues. Clues to a rug’s origin, its weaver’s influences, and the stories passed from one generation to the next. From flowers and flames to mythical creatures and geometric emblems, the same core motifs appear across weaving regions — but each one is shaped by local tradition, skill, and belief. This guide introduces some of the most common rug motifs, where they come from, and what they might mean. The Herati: The Timeless Fish History & Symbolism Perhaps the most recognisable of all motifs, the Herati design emerged from Herat, a cultural centre on the Silk Road in modern-day Afghanistan. A strategic town during the Timurid and Safavid dynasties, Herat was a hotspot for artistic production — and the birthplace (or at least the best-known home) of this enduring motif. What it Looks Like The Herati typically features a central rosette within a diamond, flanked by lancet-shaped acanthus leaves (which look like fish to some, hence the Farsi nickname “Mahi”). Where You’ll Find It Mahi Tabriz rugs: soft-toned, high-knot-count masterpieces with refined Herati patterns Bijar rugs: chunkier, more spontaneous Herati, often with endearing imperfections Ferahan rugs: 19th–20th century Iranian classics with a looser, more charming Herati execution The Boteh: The Flame, the Parrot, the Pine Cone Origins & Interpretations The Boteh — often seen as a bush, leaf cluster, flame, or even a parrot’s head — is one of the most adapted motifs in rug history. Known as “buta” in Azerbaijani and “badem” in Turkish, it has roots in Persian, Indian, and Central Asian weaving cultures. Some scholars link it to the Zoroastrian flame, others to fertility or protection symbols. Its exact meaning depends on the weaver, region, and era. Where You’ll See It Indian weavings under Mughal rule Sassanid Persian art (notably the mythical Simorgh) Silk garments from 6th–8th century Egypt Modern paisley patterns across fashion and décor The Boteh’s beauty lies in its mystery — and in the thousands of weavers who’ve adapted it over time. The Gül: Tribal Identity Woven in Wool What is a Gül? Often octagonal, the Gül is a medallion-like symbol found throughout Turkmen and Central Asian rugs. It’s symmetrical, structured, and deeply tied to tribal identity — like a woven coat of arms. Notable Examples Tekke Gül: With its directional arrows and precise repeat, it instantly signals a Tekke main carpet. Gulli Gül: Featuring tre-foils and stars, especially in Ersari rugs. Tauk Noska Gül: Animal-inspired and named for a “chicken amulet”, found in Chaudor and Yomud pieces. Memling Gül: Made famous in 15th-century European paintings by Hans Memling, this hooked medallion can be found in Anatolian designs to this day. The Mina Khani: A Floral Lattice Pattern & Placement This gentle, looping lattice of palmettes and rosettes is both elegant and deeply traditional. It’s often arranged in hexagonal or circular grids and adapted with either geometric or floral flourishes. Where You’ll See It Varamin workshop rugs, where the design is used so often it’s become a namesake Balouch and Luri tribal weavings, especially in Western Iran and Eastern Afghanistan The Shah Abbasi: Palace-Level Precision Courtly Origins Named after Shah Abbas I of the Safavid dynasty — who revolutionised Persian weaving by establishing royal workshops — this motif is a symbol of refinement. The Shah Abbasi design features large, stylised palmettes linked by elegant arabesques, perfect for high-knot-count city rugs. Key Traits Often woven in Isfahan, Kashan, Tabriz, and Kerman Detailed floral sprays, used in borders or central medallions A hallmark of Safavid luxury weaving, still replicated today in Indian, Chinese, and Pakistani rugs Why Motifs Still Matter Today Understanding motifs helps you read your rug like a book — each detail, a paragraph in its life story. Whether you’re buying a new piece, preserving an heirloom, or simply admiring the artistry beneath your feet, these common motifs give you a richer connection to the culture and creativity behind your rug. If you’re ever curious about the origins or symbolism in your own rug, we’re always happy to offer insights — just send us a photo or get in touch. All Posts Advice News Reviews Can You Wash a Persian Rug at Home? Read More A Tale of Two Rugs in Notting Hill Read More Viscose Rug Cleaning & Maintenance Tips Read More Newsletter Sign up to get the latest news and rug care tips Name Email Δ

Choosing A Rug Cleaning Company I wrote this guide ‘Choosing A Rug Cleaning Company’ to help you make the right decision when looking for a rug care professional. Never hand over your rugs to any company that can’t satisfy all the criteria in this guide. How Qualified Are You? A reputable rug restoration expert will be qualified in rug care specifically, not just carpet care. Many of us in the rug cleaning and repair industry started out as carpet cleaners however caring for hand knotted natural rugs requires a far greater level of training and experience. The most advanced qualification in the industry is the MRC, or Master Rug Cleaner Certification. Being an MRC shows that you have a good grasp of the theoretical aspects of rug cleaning with on hands training. Are You Experienced in Cleaning Wool and Silk Rugs? Training and qualifications on their own give a person the right to call themselves a competent professional, however only experience can make them a true master of their craft. My brother and I have been washing rugs for most of our adult lives. For example, we can identify a modern Tabriz and know instantly that there is a good chance the dark red dyes will bleed into the ivory if this factor is not taken into consideration when we wash the rug. And it’s only through experience that we know how to plan for potential issues like this and still wash the rug thoroughly. Silk rug cleaning requires an even more advanced level of skill. The pile on a silk rug can be permanently damaged if certain considerations are not taken in the cleaning process. The image below is a close-up of a silk Afghan rug we washed. Notice the lustre and soft appearance of the pile? And what about the sharp contrast of whites against red in the kilim end and border, with absolutely no dye migration? No amount of in-class training can prepare you for washing a rug like this. It takes experience. What Level Of Insurance Do You Hold? Washing rugs requires a specific type of insurance which covers the cleaning company against damage caused to the rug while working on it. This is called ‘treatment risk cover’. Standard business liability insurance does not provide cover in the eventuality that a rug is irreparably damaged during the wash process. Another risk that needs to be covered in our industry is the possibility of damage to, or theft of rugs while they are being transported to and from a client’s home. This is called ‘goods in transit cover’. Don’t be embarrassed to ask to see proof of a company’s insurance cover. No honest, professional rug cleaner will mind providing you with proof of his or her company’s insurance. Remember, the certificate alone is not enough to demonstrate that adequate cover is in place. You must specifically see proof of both treatment risk and goods in transit cover. Choosing a rug cleaning company without the full cover described above is a risk not worth taking. Are You A Member of Any Trade Associations? Membership with a trade association shows that a company is willing to commit to a code of practice which protects consumers. It also gives the consumer a third party that can arbitrate in case of any issues arising which aren’t dealt with to their satisfaction. Just because a company doesn’t belong to a trade association doesn’t mean they can’t be trusted to provide a service honestly, however it gives you added peace of mind incase of something going wrong. Our trade association membership is no.1565 with the NCCA. We have held this since 2005. All NCCA members must adhere to this code of practice Can You Provide Client References? A company that has been trading for many years should have a list of references available for inspection. Online references are a good place to start but don’t rely on these alone when choosing a rug cleaning company. A good tip is to ask for references that you can verify such as those of housekeeping managers or concierge in hotels and private apartment blocks. If a company has a lot of clients in your local area they may even be able to give one of your neighbours as a reference. Do You Guarantee Your Work? Work guarantees are a bit of a grey area in our industry. Cleaning a rug is not going to make it look like the day it was woven, and so no company can claim that they will make a rug look new again. In fact, natural hand knotted rugs often take on their own unique charm as they age. They develop a patina that enhances their beauty. So what matters in terms of a work guarantee is that you are satisfied the rug is hygienically clean and has not been damaged. Don’t be shy to mention something if you are not happy. Just because you have had your rug delivered back to you and paid for the cleaning does not mean you can’t contact the company to query something afterwards. So before you hand your rug over in the first place make sure you ask the company in question what happens in this eventuality. Will they come back free of charge to inspect the rug? Will they refund you if you are still not happy? We make our guarantee really easy to understand and interpret.. ‘We guarantee the most thorough rug cleaning you’ve ever seen.. or it’s free’. What does this mean? Quite simply that we will endeavour to make you happy with the job you have asked us to do. If you’re not happy we will inspect, advise and re-clean if necessary. If you’re still not happy then the work is on us. No self respecting rug cleaning professional wants unhappy customers. Ask upfront what they will and won’t guarantee. If you ask them to put it in writing they should oblige. If not, look elsewhere. 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Most rugs need cleaning long before they look dirty. Here’s why.

Real passion, proven skill, and true care for your rug.

Rug Protector Treatment: 3 Reasons It’s Worth It Accidents happen. But stains don’t have to stick. A professional rug protector treatment gives you the breathing room to deal with spills before they become permanent problems — while keeping your rug looking better, for longer. A Common Question: Is Rug Protector Really Worth It? We get this question all the time — usually right after we return a freshly cleaned rug to a client’s home. The short answer?Yes. Absolutely. It’s one of the most cost-effective, preventative treatments we offer. It helps your rug last longer, resist damage, and stay beautiful between cleans. And no, it doesn’t change the look or feel in any way. What Is a Rug Protector Treatment? After we’ve cleaned your rug, we offer an optional add-on: a rug protector treatment. This involves carefully applying a solvent spray containing a hydrocarbon compound — not unlike the technology behind Scotchgard™, though tailored for fine, natural fibre rugs. The science is simple: It forms a molecular bond around each fibre. This invisible barrier slows down the rate at which liquid can soak in. Whether it’s wine, coffee, or muddy footprints, this treatment buys you time to act — and avoids permanent staining. Will My Rug Look or Feel Different? Not at all. Once applied, the protector is completely undetectable to the eye and hand. Your rug will feel the same underfoot and look just as it did before. It’s a bit like insurance — you don’t notice it, until you need it. But Is It Stain Proof? Let’s be honest — no treatment can make a rug 100% stain-proof.You can’t pour a glass of wine on a rug, walk away for a few hours, and expect it to vanish. But with protector treatment: Liquids bead on the surface You have precious time to blot them up Many spills won’t leave a mark at all 3 Reasons to Add Protector Treatment to Your Rug 1. Spills Are Easier to Manage Wine, juice, tea, even pet accidents — they’re all easier to handle if you’ve got a protector applied. A protected rug lets you deal with a spill before it becomes a costly stain. 2. Your Rug Lasts Longer Dirt and grit act like sandpaper, slowly grinding away at fibres over time. Protector helps keep soil on the surface, where it’s easier to vacuum away — reducing abrasion and wear. 3. You’ll Save Money Over Time Rug protector treatments are a small upfront cost that can help you avoid emergency cleans, urgent stain removals, or premature replacements down the line. Experience You Can Trust We’ve applied rug protector to thousands of hand knotted rugs — including pieces in embassies, hotels, and private homes across London. And once a client tries it, they almost always ask for it again. That tells you everything. We don’t just protect wool either. Our protector treatment is safe and effective for: Silk and art silk (including bamboo and viscose) Tapestries and decorative textiles Delicate antique rugs with sensitive dyes A rug protector treatment won’t stop accidents — but it helps stop them from becoming regrets. If you’ve invested in a handmade wool or silk rug, this is one of the smartest steps you can take to preserve its beauty and value. Want to protect your rug against life’s little mishaps?Request a free quote › All Posts Advice News Reviews Can You Wash a Persian Rug at Home? Read More A Tale of Two Rugs in Notting Hill Read More Viscose Rug Cleaning & Maintenance Tips Read More Newsletter Sign up to get the latest news and rug care tips Name Email Δ

How to Store Rugs Safely at Home Proper rug storage is about more than rolling it up and putting it away. With the right care, your rug will stay safe from moths, mould, and more — ready to be enjoyed again when the time is right. Start With a Wash — Always It might seem logical to store your rug first and clean it later. But this is where most people go wrong. Moths love dirt. Even a little bit of dust, skin, or food can become an invitation to feed and lay eggs. If a rug goes into storage dirty, you could be unrolling a half-eaten mess months later. We always recommend a full professional clean before any long-term storage. This eliminates not just the obvious dirt, but hidden moth eggs and moisture trapped deep in the fibres. Wrap Your Rug Like a Professional We use Kraft or Tyvek® paper to wrap every rug headed into storage. Why? Because these materials are breathable, strong, and allow airflow — preventing mould, mildew, and moisture damage. Never wrap a rug in plastic. Even in dry summer months, sealed plastic traps humidity and encourages fungal growth. Rugs need to breathe, year-round. Want us to wrap it for you? Just ask — we’re happy to help. Keep It Dry (Really Dry) Moisture is the enemy. Raise your rug off the floor, especially if storing in a garage, cellar, or utility room. Avoid contact with walls, where condensation can collect or leaks may run down. Store it in a dry, well-ventilated space, ideally in a crate or on a platform. If the air in your home is damp — which is common in many London homes — open windows daily, reduce clutter, and improve airflow. Even if you don’t see water damage, high humidity can cause dry rot, especially in the cotton foundation common in many Persian and oriental rugs. Choose your storage location wisely. If you’re unsure whether your space is suitable, ask us — we’re happy to advise. Keep Pets Away This might sound obvious, but it’s worth saying: pets and stored rugs don’t mix. A quick accident from a dog or cat can cause severe colour bleed and long-term fibre damage, especially once urine becomes alkaline as it dries. Wrap securely. Store safely. Keep pets elsewhere. Inspect Every Few Months Storage isn’t “set and forget.” Every few months, take your rug out, lay it flat, and check: Any musty smell? Any dark spots on the foundation? Any loose fibres or webbing? If you spot anything suspicious, it’s best to act quickly. In most cases, issues can be resolved — especially if caught early. If Something Goes Wrong Even the best plans sometimes fall short. If you do discover signs of moths, mildew, or damage — don’t panic. We’ve helped many clients restore rugs from the brink, including flood damage, dry rot, and pest infestation. The sooner you reach out, the better the chance of a full recovery. And if you’re ever unsure how to store your rug, wrap it, or inspect it — get in touch. We’re always happy to share advice. All Posts Advice News Reviews Can You Wash a Persian Rug at Home? Read More A Tale of Two Rugs in Notting Hill Read More Viscose Rug Cleaning & Maintenance Tips Read More Newsletter Sign up to get the latest news and rug care tips Name Email Δ

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. Read about moth treatment → 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. All Posts Advice News Reviews Can You Wash a Persian Rug at Home? Read More A Tale of Two Rugs in Notting Hill Read More Viscose Rug Cleaning & Maintenance Tips Read More Newsletter Sign up to get the latest news and rug care tips Name Email Δ