A well cared for handmade rug can last for decades. If your rug is handmade, you want to care for it properly to be sure it lasts for years to come. At Lawrence of La Brea, we've put together a guide for how to clean and care for your handmade, antique rugs to last you a lifetime.
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View our luxury rug collections, hand-picked from around the world.
Any proud owner of a handmade rug understands the charm these unique creations can bring to their home. A handmade rug is not a mere accessory or decoration; it's a piece of art that adds character and style to your living space. Owning a handmade carpet, however, also comes with the responsibility of maintaining its pristine condition. Neglecting proper maintenance can lead to irreparable damage and loss of value.
This article will explore essential maintenance tips to help you keep your handmade rugs in excellent condition for years to come. Whether you have a rare antique rug or a contemporary masterpiece, these tips will ensure your precious investment retains its beauty.
Let's get started on the journey to caring for your luxurious handmade rugs!
Maintaining your handmade rugs doesn't need to be an overwhelming task. All it takes is some tender loving care! Proper cleaning and storage will help keep your rugs looking their best.
Let's take a closer look at how you can achieve this:
Vacuuming is the first step in maintaining the cleanliness of your rug. Remember to be gentle and use the proper techniques to avoid damaging delicate fibers. Vacuuming at least once a week in a low-power setting keeps dust particles from settling deep into the rug.
While rug beaters and brooms are also practical tools for removing surface dirt from your rug, it's essential to use them with caution, as excessive force can damage surface fibers. A soft-bristle broom with a light touch will help you avoid untoward damage.
Sometimes, accidents happen, and occasional spills are a part of life. Remember to act fast if you have a spill on your rug. Blot the affected area with a clean, dry cloth, and avoid rubbing the stain, which can make matters worse.
While regular cleaning can help maintain the condition of your handmade rug, there are times when professional cleaning becomes necessary. Professional cleaning should be done at least once a year, depending on the level of foot traffic on your rug and its exposure to dust and dirt. Professional cleaning may be required more frequently in high-traffic areas or households with pets.
Look for a rug cleaning service that specializes in handmade rugs and has a reputation for quality service. Companies that use natural cleaning products and have experience with your specific type of rug should be the first choice. Make it a point to read reviews and ask for referrals to find a reputable service.
It'sPreparing your rug before sending it off for professional cleaning is also essential. Remove any furniture you might have on your rug and vacuum it thoroughly to remove loose dirt and debris. Always insist on rolling your carpet instead of folding it to avoid creases.
If you have seasonal rugs that are not in use at certain times of the year, you need to store them properly to avoid any damage. Roll the carpet with the pile facing inward, and wrap it in acid-free paper or a piece of clean and breathable fabric. Avoid storing the rug in damp or humid areas, as this can cause harmful mold and mildew growth.
It'sRotating your rugs regularly is also a good idea to avoid uneven wear and fading. Rotate your rug 180 degrees every six months to ensure that it wears evenly. This is especially important for rugs exposed to direct sunlight or high-traffic areas. As far as possible, try placing your rugs in shaded areas with low daily traffic.
Even with the most meticulous care, handmade rugs may experience some wear or damage over time. Regular inspection of your rug can help identify such damage early on. Look for signs of wear, holes, and frayed edges and address them immediately to prevent them from worsening. Minor home repairs, such as reweaving loose threads or trimming frayed edges, can be done.
In case of significant damage, it'sseeking professional restoration services is best. Professional restoration can bring back alive your rug's beauty and value, as well as prevent further damage. Rehabilitation can include reweaving, dyeing, and repairing holes and frayed edges.
Find a qualified restoration service to ensure your rug is expertly restored to its original condition. Look for a restoration service specializing in handmade rugs and has experience with your specific type of rug, whether it's an antique Turkish rug, a fringed Tibetan rug, or a hand-knotted Iranian rug.
Handmade rugs are not only exquisite works of art but also high-value investments. Proper maintenance, cleaning, storage, and restoration are crucial to preserving their quality in the long run. Following the tips outlined in this article will help ensure that your handmade rug stays in perfect condition for future generations.
At Lawrence of La Brea, we understand the joy of owning rare rugs that adorn your home and elevate its interiors. We take pride in offering exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and durability in all our handmade rugs - brought to you from the world's far corners.
We also provide expert advice and luxury rug cleaning and restoration services to help our clients maintain their rugs. Our specialty tools and formulations ensure that your rug gets the gentlest care without any color bleeds or shrinking.
View our luxury rug collections, hand-picked from around the world.
David Nourafshan
David Nourafshan
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