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A specialist Persian rug cleaning service in London for high-value and antique rugs. Expert care, precise washing, and restoration with collection and delivery.

What Happens If You Never Clean Your Rug? A look inside our specialist rug cleaning process—and why the method matters just as much as the result. The Heart of Our Craft If you live in London and own a handmade rug, chances are you’ve Googled some variation of “rug cleaning near me” and been faced with a sea of results. Everyone seems to offer “professional rug cleaning,” but what does that really mean? At The Persian Rug Cleaning Company, rug cleaning isn’t just a service. It’s the heart of our craft. We’ve built our reputation on specialist knowledge, obsessive attention to detail, and an understanding that a rug is never just a rug—it’s a work of art, a family heirloom, or the centrepiece of a home. Why the Process Matters Most London carpet cleaners offering rug cleaning are really set up for wall-to-wall fitted carpets. They might have a hot water extraction machine in a van and offer to clean your rug on your living room floor. This kind of surface cleaning can brighten things up temporarily—but it won’t remove the grit, the oils, or the deeply embedded contaminants hidden in the foundation of the rug. It might even cause damage, especially to rugs made of wool or silk, or those with unstable dyes. That’s why we bring every rug into our dedicated facility, where it goes through a multi-stage, fully controlled cleaning process designed to be as safe as it is thorough. Step 1: Pre-Inspection and Dye Testing Every rug is unique. Before we even consider cleaning, we carry out a detailed inspection. We check the fibre type (wool, silk, cotton), the knot density, the weave structure, and any existing damage or dye migration. Then we perform dye tests and pH tests to ensure that the cleaning process will be safe and won’t cause colours to bleed or run. This step is crucial. It’s what sets us apart from companies that go straight to spraying and scrubbing. Step 2: Dusting and Dry Soil Removal You can’t get a rug clean without removing the dry soil first. And yet, most domestic cleaners skip this step entirely. Using mechanical dusting machines and compressed air tools, we remove the grit, dust, and allergens that have settled deep into the foundation. It’s this dry particulate matter—like fine sandpaper—that does the most damage to a rug over time. One client was stunned to see how much soil we removed from a rug that “didn’t even look that dirty.” Step 3: Full Immersion Wash (Or Gentle Hand Cleaning) Next, we choose a cleaning method based on what we learned during inspection. For strong, stable rugs, we use a full immersion wash—submerging the rug in softened cold water and using specialist woolsafe® shampoo to gently but effectively clean the fibres. Delicate or antique rugs may be cleaned by hand on a raised wash table, with special brushes and gentle flowing water. We never use hot water. We never use harsh chemicals. And we never rush. Step 4: Rinse and Centrifuge Spin Once the wash is complete, we rinse the rug thoroughly using clean, cold water until every trace of detergent and emulsified soil has been flushed out. Then we place the rug in a high-speed centrifuge machine—the kind used in the most advanced rug plants in the world. Spinning the rug removes 90–95% of the moisture and dramatically speeds up drying. This is essential for preventing shrinkage, dye migration, or mildew. Step 5: Controlled Drying and Grooming Clean rugs are hung in our temperature- and humidity-controlled drying room, which circulates warm, dry air and removes moisture from the environment. This prevents the problems that can occur when rugs are left to dry too slowly—especially in London’s damp winters. Once dry, the rug is groomed and inspected again. Pile direction is restored, fringes are aligned, and the colours have often returned to their full vibrancy. The Result: A Rug That Looks (and Feels) Right Clients often tell us they didn’t realise how dull or heavy their rug felt until they saw it cleaned. We’ve had rugs returned to us for their third or fourth professional wash, and they still come back brighter, softer, and cleaner than most people expect is possible. One client in Notting Hill decided to hang her newly cleaned Isfahan rug on the wall—it looked too beautiful to tread on. Another, in Hampstead, told us she couldn’t believe the difference in how her silk Kashan felt underfoot. You can read countless rug cleaning reviews from our London clients on our google business page. For us, that’s what rug cleaning should be. Not just surface-level tidy, but deep-down clean and safe. Why It Matters for London Homes In a city like London, where air quality varies, pets live indoors, and central heating dries the air, rugs pick up more than just dirt. They absorb pollutants, allergens, oils, and moisture. And yet, many people wait years before having them cleaned. But a well-cleaned rug lasts longer, smells better, and supports the health of your home. You invested in a handmade rug. We believe it’s worth the care. All Posts Advice News Reviews The Ultimate Persian Rug Cleaning Guide: Protecting Your Investment Read More How to Vacuum a Persian Rug Without Damaging It Read More How Moths Destroy Rugs – And How to Stop Them Read More Newsletter Sign up to get the latest news and rug care tips Name Email Δ

The Ultimate Persian Rug Cleaning Guide: Protecting Your Investment Introduction to Persian Rug Cleaning Persian rugs are not just floor coverings — they are works of art, cultural heirlooms, and financial investments. Whether it’s a treasured family piece or a newly purchased rug from a Mayfair gallery, proper cleaning and care are essential to maintain its beauty and value. In this Persian rug cleaning guide, we’ll explain why professional Persian rug cleaning is vital, what methods are safest, and how London homeowners can ensure their rugs remain immaculate for generations. Why Professional Cleaning Is Essential Preserving the Value of Your Rug Persian rugs are often purchased for thousands of pounds and, in many cases, appreciate in value. Improper cleaning — whether by DIY attempts or inexperienced carpet cleaners — can cause colours to bleed, fibres to weaken, or edges to fray. This can reduce a rug’s worth dramatically. Protecting Fibres and Natural Dyes Most Persian rugs are woven with wool, silk, or cotton and dyed with natural vegetable dyes. These require a delicate, pH-balanced cleaning process. Harsh chemicals or hot-water carpet machines can strip colour, cause shrinkage, or leave permanent damage. Health and Cleanliness Rugs act as filters in the home, trapping dust, allergens, pet dander, and bacteria deep within the fibres. Professional cleaning removes these particles safely, restoring freshness and protecting your family’s health. https://youtu.be/2gIzqx1jc0g?si=IUbzkSEAa-4JLmiT How Persian Rugs Should Be Cleaned At The Persian Rug Cleaning Company, we follow museum-grade techniques trusted by collectors and galleries. Each rug is assessed individually, then cleaned by hand or carefully with specialist machinery. Dusting & Beating – Deep dust removal using traditional beating techniques and modern vibration systems. This clears sand and grit, some invisible to the eye, but highly damaging to fibres. Gentle Hand-Washing – Using soft water and pH-balanced shampoos tailored to wool and silk. Never with general carpet cleaning machines or harsh chemicals. Soft Water Rinse – Ensuring colours remain vibrant and no residue is left behind. Controlled Drying – Rugs are fast-dried in a climate-controlled room. This prevents shrinkage, colour run and warping. Final Grooming & Inspection – Pile is brushed, fringes aligned, and sheen restored. Each rug is inspected to ensure it returns in immaculate condition. Common Rug Problems We Restore Pet accidents – Urine odours and bacteria removed, and stains safely neutralised. Wine & coffee spills – Colour-safe removal without bleaching. Moth damage – Treatment and prevention advice. Understanding the moth cycle is crucial to preventing moth damage. Smoke & water damage – Restoration of colour and softness. General wear & fading – Rejuvenating pile and restoring vibrancy. These are issues that standard carpet cleaners cannot treat without risk. How Often Should You Clean a Persian Rug? Every 12–18 months if in a busy room with daily foot traffic. Every 2–3 years for decorative or low-use rugs. Immediately after spills, pet accidents, or flooding. Regular care extends the life of your rug and ensures it remains an appreciating asset rather than a deteriorating liability. Why London’s Discerning Clients Trust Us For decades, The Persian Rug Cleaning Company has been the first choice for homeowners who value discretion, expertise, and flawless results. Trusted by clients in Mayfair, Knightsbridge, Kensington, Chelsea, Belgravia & Hampstead.  Specialists in Persian & Oriental rugs including Tabriz, Heriz, Nain, Kashan, Caucasian, Tibetan, and many more. Collection & delivery service across London, Essex and Bournemouth. Vast experience in restoring rugs for interior designers, galleries, auction houses and collectors. We understand that each rug has a story — whether it’s a family heirloom or a newly acquired masterpiece — and we treat every piece with the care it deserves. Case Study: Restoring an Antique Heriz Serapi Rug A long time client in Knightsbridge contacted us after a drink spill on her antique Heriz Serapi rug, valued at over £30,000. This is one of her prized pieces and spot cleaning which she carried out in a panic had only spread the stain. She called us and luckily we were in the neighbourhood so we collected the rug, took it straight back to our facility and got to work immediately. Using dye stabilisation, protein spot removal, and gentle shampooing, we fully removed the mark without fading the wool’s natural sheen. We then washed the whole rug. The client was astonished: “I thought it was ruined forever, but Nick & Dasos at The Persian Rug Cleaning Company brought it back to life. It looks better than when I bought it. You can’t tell where the stain was and the rug is so bright now. The reds particularly have a stunning pearlescence which wasn’t visible when I first purchased the rug” Tips for Caring for Your Persian Rug at Home Rotate rugs annually to ensure even wear. Vacuum gently with suction only (unless trained by us on using the beater method) — avoid fringes. See our guide – How to vacuum a rug without damaging it Avoid direct sunlight which fades dyes. This is another reason to rotate rugs regularly. Attend to spills immediately by blotting with a white cloth — never rub.  Have rugs professionally cleaned regularly to prevent damage and extend the life of the rug. Frequently Asked Questions Can my rug be collected from my home?Yes, we offer a door-to-door collection and delivery service throughout London, Essex and Bournemouth. This is included in the price of the overall service. Is Persian rug cleaning expensive?Prices vary depending on size, material, and condition. For luxury rugs, the cost of professional cleaning is nearly always less than the loss of value caused by damage. Do you clean silk rugs?Yes — silk requires experience and expertise. We use specialist hand-washing and grooming techniques to care for silk rugs safely. Can you repair rugs as well as clean them?Absolutely. We work with expert restorers to reweave fringes, fix holes, and restore selvedge damage.  How long does professional rug cleaning take?Usually 7–10 days, depending on the rug’s condition and whether repairs are required. Urgent cleaning services are available on request. What’s … Read more

How to Vacuum a Persian Rug Without Damaging It Persian rugs need more than just regular vacuuming—they need the right kind. Here’s how to keep yours clean without causing harm. It Starts With Respect Owning a Persian rug is a bit like owning a vintage sports car or an antique watch: beautiful, functional, but not something you maintain like the everyday equivalent. It’s a work of art. A cultural artefact. And if you treat it like wall-to-wall carpet, you may be doing more harm than good. We’ve seen it all—from rugs warped by years of aggressive vacuuming, to delicate fringes shredded by rotating brushes. But here’s the good news: vacuuming your Persian rug is the right thing to do. You just need to do it carefully. Why Vacuuming Matters Every day, your rug collects dry soil, grit, dust, and skin particles. Even if it looks clean, the abrasive particles grinding into the fibres can slowly destroy them—especially if the rug is in a high-traffic area. Vacuuming, when done correctly, removes this dry soil and extends the life of the rug. But if done poorly, it can wear down the pile, break fibres, and even pull out knots. So let’s get into the do’s and don’ts. The Golden Rules of Vacuuming a Persian Rug 1. Use the Right Vacuum For general regular vacuuming avoid heavy-duty machines with rotating beater bars. Instead, opt for a vacuum with adjustable suction and a brush head you can control—or better yet, no brush bar at all. We recommend upright vacuums like the SEBO BS36 for professional use or a Miele cylinder vacuum with a gentle floor head for home use. If your vacuum has a rotating brush, make sure it can be switched off. Fringes should never go anywhere near a rotating brush. 2. Vacuum With the Pile, Not Against It All hand-knotted rugs have a pile direction—the direction the knots lie flat. Always vacuum with the pile, not against it. You’ll notice less resistance, and it helps preserve the integrity of the fibres. Going against the pile can lift or loosen the wool and cause breakage over time. 3. Be Careful With the Edges and Fringe Fringes are delicate. They’re part of the warp threads and not just decorative tassels. If your vacuum catches them, it can unravel the rug. Always vacuum up to the fringe and stop. Use a handheld vacuum or brush attachment if needed. If your rug has curling edges or loose selvages, avoid putting pressure on these areas. Gently smooth them out before vacuuming. Step-by-Step: How to Vacuum a Persian Rug Step 1: Remove loose items and furniture. Step 2: Check for obvious dirt, loose threads, or damage. Step 3: Vacuum the face of the rug in the direction of the pile. Step 4: Flip the rug over and vacuum the back—this helps dislodge deep soil from the foundation. Step 5: Lift the rug and vacuum the floor underneath. Step 6: If needed, repeat steps 3–5. Step 7: Use a soft brush attachment to carefully clean the fringe. Doing this every few weeks keeps your rug fresh between professional cleans. What to Avoid No handheld “pet hair rollers” or mini power brushes on the face of the rug. They can tear pile and lift knots. No vacuuming across corners or edges. It weakens the structure and leads to fraying. Never steam clean a Persian rug—it will shrink the fibres and destroy dye stability. We’ve seen many rugs damaged over the years by owners paying general carpet cleaners to steam clean rugs Don’t rub stains with the vacuum or attachments. Use blotting methods instead. When to Call in the Experts So you now know how to vacuum a Persian Rug, But even if you vacuum regularly, rugs still need deep cleaning to remove the grit and oils that embed over time. We recommend professional cleaning every 1–2 years for rugs in use, or more frequently if you have pets, heavy traffic, or accidental spills. Vacuuming is maintenance. Deep cleaning is preservation. What We Do Differently At The Persian Rug Cleaning Company, we begin every cleaning with the most thorough dusting and dry soil removal process in the UK. We use specialist machines that vibrate the rug from the back and loosen years of grit—something vacuuming alone can’t achieve. So if you’re wondering whether you’re looking after your rug properly, this is a great place to start. All Posts Advice News Reviews How to Vacuum a Persian Rug Without Damaging It Read More How Moths Destroy Rugs – And How to Stop Them Read More Lori-Pambak Kazak Rugs — Expert Cleaning & Care in London Read More Newsletter Sign up to get the latest news and rug care tips Name Email Δ

How to Vacuum a Persian Rug Without Damaging It Persian rugs often show subtle signs before they require professional cleaning. While surface appearance may seem unchanged, embedded dust, fibre fatigue, and changes in texture can indicate that deeper cleaning is needed. The Persian Rug Cleaning Company provides specialist care for Persian and Oriental rugs across London, helping to preserve their condition and longevity through appropriate, controlled cleaning. Loss of Brightness and Colour Depth One of the earliest signs that a Persian rug requires cleaning is a gradual loss of brightness. Dust and fine particles settle deep within the fibres, dulling colours over time. This process is often gradual and may go unnoticed until the rug is cleaned and its original vibrancy is restored. Embedded Dust and Grit Persian rugs naturally trap dust and grit within their fibres. Over time, this material accumulates and can begin to affect the structure of the rug. If left untreated, these particles act abrasively, wearing down fibres from within and reducing the lifespan of the rug. Changes in Texture or Feel A rug that feels stiffer, heavier, or less flexible than usual may be holding accumulated dirt or residues. This change in texture is often a sign that professional cleaning is required. Proper washing restores the natural softness and movement of the fibres. Unpleasant Odours Odours can develop in rugs over time due to moisture, environmental factors, trapped contaminants or pet accidents. These smells are often not removed through surface cleaning alone. Professional cleaning helps eliminate odour sources by thoroughly washing and rinsing the rug. Visible Stains or Marks While some stains are immediately noticeable, others develop gradually. Marks caused by spills, foot traffic, or environmental exposure may require specialist treatment to remove safely. Incorrect attempts at stain removal can worsen the problem, making professional care the safer option. High-Traffic Areas Becoming Worn Areas of the rug that receive consistent foot traffic may begin to show signs of wear or flattening. This can indicate a build-up of dirt within the fibres, contributing to fibre fatigue. Professional cleaning helps restore the structure and reduce further wear. Frequently asked questions Can a rug look clean but still need washing? Yes, many rugs appear clean on the surface while holding significant amounts of dust and dirt within the fibres. Professional cleaning removes this embedded material. Is it better to clean a rug before visible damage occurs? Yes, regular professional cleaning helps prevent long-term damage caused by embedded particles and environmental exposure. Will cleaning restore the colour of a Persian rug? In many cases, professional cleaning can restore brightness by removing the layer of dust dulling the fibres. However, results depend on the condition of the rug. Request a Quote If your rug is showing signs of wear, dullness, or embedded dirt, specialist cleaning may be required. Contact The Persian Rug Cleaning Company to arrange a quote or book a collection across London. You can learn more about our Persian rug cleaning service in London here All Posts Advice News Reviews Expert Persian Rug Cleaning London – Specialist Care for Fine Rugs Read More What Happens If You Never Clean Your Rug? Read More The Ultimate Persian Rug Cleaning Guide: Protecting Your Investment Read More Newsletter Sign up to get the latest news and rug care tips Name Email Δ

We’ve seen it too many times. A beautiful, hand-knotted rug left untouched under a piece of furniture… only to be discovered years later, ravaged by moths. If you’ve ever wondered how moths can do so much damage—or how to prevent it—this is for you.

Lori-Pambak Kazak Rugs — Expert Cleaning & Care in London “Own a Lori-Pambak Kazak Rug? Here’s What You Need to Know” What Is a Lori-Pambak Kazak Rug? A Lori-Pambak Kazak rug is a handwoven carpet from the Lori and Pambak valleys of Armenia, part of the historic Caucasus weaving region. These rugs were traditionally made in the 19th and early 20th centuries by village and tribal weavers using local mountain wool and natural vegetable dyes. These rugs are admired by collectors and interior designers alike for their geometric strength, striking colours, and cultural symbolism. A genuine antique Lori-Pambak Kazak is more than a floor covering—it’s a piece of history, woven with meaning and passed down for generations. The History of Lori-Pambak Kazak Rugs The weaving tradition of Lori-Pambak Kazak rugs developed during the 19th century, a period when the Caucasus became an important hub in the global rug trade. Unlike many Persian city carpets that followed workshop patterns, Lori-Pambak rugs were created in small villages and family homes, each piece reflecting the imagination of the weaver. Trade routes running through the Caucasus connected these rugs to markets in Tbilisi, Moscow, and even Western Europe. Merchants quickly recognised their bold style — especially the three commanding medallions — and demand grew among collectors abroad. Because they were woven for both domestic use and export, Lori-Pambak rugs balanced practicality with artistry: thick, resilient wool for warmth and durability, combined with vivid dyes and strong geometry designed to catch the eye. This blend of function and statement made them one of the most distinctive Caucasian weaving styles of the era. How to Recognise a Lori-Pambak Kazak Rug Collectors and enthusiasts often ask how to identify a genuine Lori-Pambak Kazak. These rugs stand out from other Caucasian weavings through a few unmistakable features: Three stacked medallions – almost every Lori-Pambak has three large octagonal or rectangular medallions aligned down the centre. Deep indigo field – the background is usually a rich navy blue, creating dramatic contrast with the reds and ivories. Ram’s horn motifs – bold, angular S-shapes scattered across the field, symbolising strength and protection. Hooked diamonds – small diamond shapes with projecting hooks, used as talismans against the evil eye. Leaf-and-calyx border – a repeating diagonal floral design framing the rug. Bold colour palette – madder red, indigo blue, ivory, and accents of yellow or green from natural vegetable dyes. These design hallmarks make Lori-Pambak Kazaks easy to distinguish and also explain why they remain so visually powerful in both traditional and modern interiors. Craftsmanship and Materials of Lori-Pambak Kazak Rugs Lori-Pambak Kazak rugs are admired not just for their design, but also for the quality of their construction. These were practical household textiles, made to withstand daily use while holding deep cultural meaning. Wool quality: The highland pastures of Armenia produced dense, lustrous wool with a natural sheen. This gave Lori-Pambak rugs both durability and a soft, glowing surface. Hand-knotting: Weavers used the symmetrical (Turkish) knot, tying each one by hand on simple wooden looms. This technique created a firm, resilient structure that allowed the rugs to last for generations. Vegetable dyes: Colours came from natural sources — indigo plants for blues, madder root for reds, and various herbs and minerals for yellows and greens. These dyes aged beautifully, giving antique examples their prized patina. Thickness and weight: Compared with finer Persian carpets, Lori-Pambak rugs were woven with a heavier pile, making them warmer and more robust in village homes. Handmade individuality: Each rug carries small variations in knot count, colour balance, and motif placement, which are celebrated as marks of authenticity rather than flaws. It’s this combination of sturdy craftsmanship and artistic individuality that makes Lori-Pambak Kazaks so valued today, both as decorative pieces and as cultural artefacts. Why Proper Care and Cleaning Matters Antique Lori-Pambak Kazak rugs are more than beautiful textiles — they are cultural treasures. But like all wool and vegetable-dyed rugs, they are also vulnerable if not cared for correctly. Dust and grit damage – fine particles work down into the foundation of the rug, cutting fibres with every step and gradually thinning the pile. Colour sensitivity – natural dyes can bleed or fade if exposed to harsh chemicals, steam, or over-wetting. Delicate foundations – antique wool, while strong, can become brittle if washed improperly or left damp. Household risks – vacuuming alone cannot remove deep-set grit, and DIY cleaning products often cause more harm than good. For these reasons, owners of Lori-Pambak rugs are advised to invest in specialist professional cleaning. At The Persian Rug Cleaning Company, we use traditional hand-washing methods tailored to antique Caucasian rugs: A careful pre-inspection of dyes, fibres, and condition. Gentle dust removal to extract grit without stressing the weave. pH-balanced hand washing to lift dirt while protecting vegetable dyes. Controlled drying on racks to prevent shrinkage or colour migration. This process restores not only the appearance but also the longevity of your rug, ensuring it remains a vibrant heirloom for generations to come. Owning a Piece of History A genuine Lori-Pambak Kazak rug is far more than a decorative floor covering — it is a woven record of culture, craftsmanship, and tradition. With their bold designs, layered symbolism, and resilient construction, these rugs continue to capture attention as both collector’s items and practical works of art for the home. If you are fortunate enough to own one, it deserves to be cared for with the same attention and respect that went into its creation. Proper cleaning not only enhances the colours and patterns but also protects the fibres, ensuring your rug will remain a family treasure for decades to come. At The Persian Rug Cleaning Company, we specialise in antique rug cleaning and restoration in London, with expertise in handling rare Caucasian rugs such as the Lori-Pambak. Whether your rug needs a deep clean, colour revival, or sensitive restoration, our team is here to help. Book your professional rug cleaning today and give your Lori-Pambak Kazak rug the … Read more

The Ultimate Rug Cleaning Schedule: How Often Should You Clean? Learn how often to clean your rug based on its use, material, and your lifestyle. A practical schedule for rug lovers who want to protect their investment. The Problem With Waiting Too Long Most people wait until their rug looks dirty before booking a professional clean. But that’s usually too late. Rugs—especially high-quality Persian and oriental ones—are masters at hiding dirt. Their dense pile and deep dyes disguise the signs of wear, while below the surface, grit and contaminants build up. This invisible soil grinds against the fibres, wearing them down slowly over time. We’ve washed rugs that didn’t look filthy until the water ran brown for five rinses straight. So, when clients ask us how often they should clean their rug, our answer is simple: sooner than you think. But let’s get more specific. What’s the Right Cleaning Schedule? It depends on three things: How the rug is used What it’s made of Who shares your space Here’s a simple breakdown by rug usage: Usage Recommended Cleaning Frequency Light foot traffic only Every 3–5 years Normal household use Every 1–2 years High traffic / hallway rug Every 6–12 months Pets, young kids, or smokers Every 6–9 months (or as needed) Recent spill or odour issue Immediately (don’t delay) Why Vacuuming Isn’t Enough Regular vacuuming is essential, but it only handles surface dirt and loose particles. It won’t remove the compacted soil in the rug’s foundation, and it definitely won’t tackle oils, allergens, bacteria, or odours. Think of it like dental hygiene: brushing helps, but you still need a professional clean. Our specialist rug dusting equipment removes up to 75% of the dry particulate soil before we even begin washing. This is the stuff no vacuum can reach. Special Cases That Need Faster Cleaning Pets (Especially Dogs) Pet hair, oil, and accidents can seep deep into the rug fibres. Urine, in particular, can destabilise dyes and cause permanent damage if left untreated. If your pet has had an accident, don’t wait—have the rug cleaned and treated immediately. Allergy Sufferers Rugs act like a sponge for dust, pollen, and allergens. If you or someone in your home has sensitivities, professional rug cleaning every year will help manage indoor air quality and reduce symptoms. Valuable or Antique Rugs These should be cleaned more frequently—not less. Dirt is abrasive. Even if the rug isn’t in a high-traffic area, trapped grit can shorten its life. Annual cleaning helps preserve its structure, colour, and value. Signs Your Rug Needs Cleaning Even if you vacuum weekly and rotate your rug regularly, here are signs it’s time to book a professional clean: Odors that linger (pet, smoke, mustiness) The pile feels flat or sticky The rug looks dull or patchy You spot moth activity You haven’t cleaned it in over two years Still unsure? Try lifting a corner and banging it on a hard surface. If a puff of dust comes out—it’s time. How Often Should You Clean Rug Types? Rug Type Cleaning Notes Wool rugs Every 1–2 years; more often with pets/kids Silk rugs Every 2–3 years; handle with care Viscose or faux silk 1–2 years; very delicate and soil-sensitive Flatweave / Kilim Every 2 years; easy to vacuum but still traps grit   Our Cleaning Promise Whether your rug is a modern Gabbeh or a 100-year-old Isfahan, we approach each clean with a detailed inspection, thorough dusting, and gentle immersion wash tailored to its needs. Every rug has its own story—and we clean accordingly. We also keep records of every rug we clean, so we can remind you when it’s due for its next wash. That way, you never have to guess. 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 Get Urine Out of a Rug Without Damaging It Urine on your rug? Don’t panic. Here’s how to remove urine from rugs safely, avoid long-term damage, and when to call in the experts. How to Get Urine Out of a Rug Without Damaging It Pet accidents and rug ownership go hand in hand. Whether it’s a puppy still learning the ropes or an older dog with occasional mishaps, sooner or later, your rug will suffer the consequences. The question is—what now? Urine is one of the most damaging contaminants for Persian, oriental, and natural fibre rugs. It’s not just about the smell (although that’s bad enough). It’s about chemistry—how urine changes over time, how it interacts with dyes, and how it degrades delicate fibres. Here’s how to act quickly and safely when accidents happen—and what to avoid if you want to save your rug. What Makes Urine So Harmful to Rugs? Urine doesn’t stay the same once it hits your rug. As it dries, it becomes increasingly alkaline. This change in pH can do serious damage to the mordants that hold your rug’s dyes in place. The result? Colours run, fibres weaken, and odours set in. Here’s what urine can do if not treated properly: Cause permanent dye bleed, especially in reds, blues, and dark colours. Leave stubborn stains, even after the surface has dried. Trigger strong ammonia odours, which only worsen over time. Break down natural fibres, especially wool and silk. Even small accidents can turn into major issues if left untreated. The Immediate Steps You Should Take If you spot an accident in progress—or just after—here’s what to do: Act fast. The sooner you respond, the less damage the urine can do. Blot, don’t rub. Use dry paper towels or a clean, absorbent cloth to blot up as much as possible. Don’t scrub—it drives urine deeper. Dilute carefully. If no dye has transferred to your towel, you can lightly dab the area with a damp cloth to dilute any remaining residue. Avoid soaking the rug. Check for dye transfer. If you see colour on your towel, stop immediately. You’re at risk of dye bleed, and it’s time to call in professionals. Never use off-the-shelf carpet sprays or “pet enzyme cleaners” unless you’re certain they’re wool-safe and pH neutral. Many aren’t. Why DIY Cleaning Often Makes Things Worse Home attempts at deep cleaning urine often fail. Common mistakes include: Over-wetting the rug, which risks shrinkage, mould, and dye migration. Using harsh cleaners, which can bleach, stain, or damage fibres. Failing to fully extract urine, leaving the smell and bacteria behind. Ignoring the foundation, where urine seeps and dries—out of sight, but still doing damage. Just because the rug looks clean doesn’t mean the urine is gone. At The Persian Rug Cleaning Company, we don’t guess. We test. Our approach includes: pH testing and UV inspection to locate and identify all urine spots. Full immersion in a decontamination bath—no surface clean will reach the urine in the foundation. Repeated flushing and rinsing to remove uric acid and odour-causing bacteria. Safe drying in a controlled environment to preserve rug integrity. It’s the only way to ensure your rug is truly clean—not just on the surface. 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

Should You Scotchgard Your Rug? What to Know About Stain Protection Scotchgard and similar stain protection treatments promise peace of mind—but are they safe to use on your rug? Here’s what to know before you commit. The Case for Protection If you’ve just had your rug professionally cleaned, it’s only natural to want to keep it that way. You’ve invested in restoring its color, removing embedded dirt, and possibly even repairing minor damage. Now, you might be wondering: should I add a layer of protection? It’s a question we’re asked often. And the answer is: it depends—not on whether protection is valuable, but on how it’s done, what it’s made of, and what kind of rug you’re treating. What Scotchgard Actually Does Scotchgard is often used as a catch-all term for any fabric or carpet protector. What it actually refers to is a type of stain treatment originally developed to repel spills and dirt by coating fibers with a thin barrier. This barrier doesn’t stop accidents from happening—but it does buy you time. That means the red wine your cousin spills doesn’t immediately soak into the pile. Or the juice your child knocks over can be gently blotted up before it becomes a permanent part of the design. For busy homes, stain protection sounds like a no-brainer. But the truth is, not all protectors—or rugs—are equal. When It Works, and When It Doesn’t Let’s say you’ve got a modern wool rug in a living room that sees a lot of life. Coffee cups, kids, pets, parties. You vacuum regularly, but the risk of spills is constant. A well-applied protector here can extend the time between professional cleans and help you sleep easier when someone reaches for the wine bottle. Now, imagine a 100% silk Isfahan with delicate pile and a hand-knotted fringe. The wrong type of stain protection—especially one sprayed from a can bought online—can actually dull the finish, stiffen the pile, or worse, interact chemically with the dyes. This is where professional care matters most. In our studio, we test every rug before applying any treatment. We apply the protector by hand and brush it carefully into the fibres. And after it’s cured, we test again to make sure the rug reacts exactly as it should. Misconceptions About “Stain Resistance” One of the biggest myths we try to dispel is that stain protection makes a rug bulletproof. It doesn’t. A treated rug can still stain. If you leave that wine spill to dry overnight, no protector in the world will save you. What protection does is give you time to act. Instead of a spill sinking straight into the fibres, it beads on the surface. That might buy you five minutes—or fifteen. It depends on the rug, the liquid, the temperature, the room. But five minutes might be all you need to save your rug. Why It’s Still Worth It The thing about rugs—especially the kinds we work with—is that they’re not disposable. These aren’t machine-made, synthetic carpets you swap out every few years. These are handwoven pieces that carry history and craft. Protecting them isn’t just about keeping them pretty. It’s about giving them a better shot at aging gracefully. A treated rug stays cleaner longer. It’s easier to vacuum. The fibres don’t wear down as quickly because grit can’t lodge itself as deeply. And when the time comes to clean it again? It often responds better, because the damage hasn’t had as much time to take hold. What Our Clients Say We’ve had clients come back to us years after their first clean and protection, amazed at how well their rug has held up. One said they’d spilled wine more than once but managed to soak it up with paper towels each time, with no trace left behind. Another told us they hadn’t even noticed how much easier their rug was to vacuum until they replaced it with an untreated one in another room. “It was like night and day,” they said. For us, that’s the best evidence there is. So, should you Scotchgard your rug? If it’s a well-made wool or silk rug, and if you care about preserving it, then yes—but not with something from a DIY shelf. The best approach is one that’s tailored to your rug’s material, construction, and dye stability. We believe in protection. We just believe it should be done right. 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