Caring For Your Oriental Rug
Written by Elizabeth Wood
Editor In Chief, United Home Improvement

Oriental carpets are a valuable part of many people's homes. Whether they were inherited from the family, specially picked out as a collector's piece, or simply purchased for aesthetic reasons, it is important to take the time to maintain your oriental carpet. Oriental carpets require unique cleaning and maintenance in order to ensure its longevity. There are several helpful tips that you can follow to ensure your investment.

Tips for caring for your Oriental Carpet:

• Invest in rug pads. Rug pads serve as a defense for keeping a carpet in place and discouraging uneven wear.

• If placing furniture on an oriental carpet, be sure to use furniture slides, especially on areas that receive heavy wear.

• Give your rug a good shake before regular vacuuming. You can also try using an old fashion rug beater or tool of similar fashion.

• Depending on the amount of wear your rug receives, be sure to air it out on regular intervals. You can do this by hanging it on a clothes line or laying it outside on a dry sunny day.

• Regularly inspect the underside of oriental carpets for signs of moths and damage.

• Rotate the position of your carpet. If certain areas are showing signs of wear and tear, try placing these areas under furniture and away from heavy traffic.

• Small rugs can be hand washed with soap and water. Larger rugs can be spread out on a nice day and cleaned with a mix of wool detergent and cold water. For tough stains, always use a soft brush to work out the stain. Rinse thoroughly. Make sure the rug has completely dried before resuming its position in your home.

• If you notice that your rug is damaged, visit a qualified rug re-weaver. Professionals will match wool colors and the exact type of weave.

If you care for an oriental carpet appropriately, the incomparable elegance and warmth it gives to a room, as well as its value, are vast. If the rug has been passed down through generations, patiently sought out by interest, or purchased on simple good taste, it's still only sensible to ensure your treasure is adequately maintained.

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