RUG CARE GUIDE
General Care OF RUGS
Underlay/Pad: Underlay is highly recommended for all rugs. The soft padding cushions the fibres from wear and helps preserve the longevity of a rug overtime. Anti slip underlay holds the rug in place which is important for lighter weight flatweave rugs. An underlay also increases the comfort of a rug underfoot.
Stain Treatment: Applying a stain treatment is recommended for higher value rugs as it offers protection and peace of mind against accidents. We offer a stain treatment service, the product we use penetrates the fibres of the rug leaving no trace or change in look or handle. It is non-toxic & non-allergenic, it contains no fluorochemicals or PTFE resins. It is produced in a carbon zero factory in the USA and is used widely to cover both fibres in flooring and fabrics to protects against spills and stains.
Regular Vacuuming: Vacuum your rug regularly to remove dust, dirt, and debris. Vacuuming will protect and prolong the life of a rug. Always use a low power setting. Aim to vacuum at least once a week, more frequently in high-traffic areas. For more stubborn debris or pet hairs the gentle use of a brush attachment while vacuuming will aid the removal. Avoid rotating brushes as they can cause damage. Periodically vacuum the rug underside and underlay (pad).
Hand Knotted Rugs: New hand knotted pile rugs may shed for an initial period, vacuum regularly and they will settle. Vacuum in the direction of the rug's pile to prevent pulling out fibres.
Flatweave Rugs: Vacuum the bound edges gently on low suction and avoid brush attachments.
Tufted Rugs: New tufted rugs tend to shed in the first few months. Vacuum regularly. The deeper pile of some tufted rugs may require a slightly more powerful setting on a vacuum, always start at a low setting before increasing gently as required.
Rotate Periodically: Rotate your rug every few months to ensure even wear. This helps prevent certain areas from receiving more traffic than others, which can lead to uneven fading or wear patterns. Rotating the rug regularly will reduce the affects.
Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause colours to fade and fibres to weaken. Window treatments are advisable to block out UV rays if positioned in direct sunlight. Rotating the rug regularly will reduce the affects.
Moisture: Prolonged contact with moisture can cause damage to the rug fibres especially for wool. Ensure the rug is positioned in a dry environment. In humid climates or if the rug is exposed to spills or dampness turn your rug over and let it air out in a well-ventilated area to prevent odours and moisture build up.
Loose Fibres : Loose fibres may occur on pile rugs, these can be trimmed using sharp scissors by carefully snipping the loose fibres flush with the rug's surface. Do not pull at loose fibres.
Creasing or Turned Corners: Larger flatweave rugs may be shipped folded and arrive with some creasing. Generally, these will naturally disappear and the use of a good rug underlay/pad will assist. Creasing on wool flatweave rugs can also be addressed with an iron on a wool setting using a clean cotton tea towel as a barrier protection between the iron and rug. Curling corners can also be flattened using this method. For stubborn curling a gentle steam can be effective in relaxing the fibres.
Heavy Furniture: Placing heavy furniture directly on top of a pile rug can cause indentations or damage to the fibres. Use furniture pads or coasters under the legs of furniture to distribute weight evenly.
Professional Cleaning: Schedule a professional cleaning for your rug every 12 to 24 months, or as needed depending on usage and soiling. Professional cleaners have the expertise and equipment to deep clean rugs effectively without causing damage.
In Case Of Incident
Act quickly as the removal of fresh spots or spills is always much more successful than of old stains (the majority of stains can be removed out of your rug if treated immediately). Take up as much of the soil/stain as possible before applying anything to the area. Blot up liquids with a clean, white cloth or paper towel to absorb as much liquid as possible. Blot, never rub as rubbing may spread the stain.
For dry dirt use a spoon to remove solids or vacuum. A small soft brush or a soft clean tooth brush can be used to gently dislodge debris from the rug fibres. Hard brushing & scrubbing can cause pile damage & should always be avoided as it may damage the fibres.
Spot Cleaning Use a mild detergent mixed with water to gently blot the stain, working from the outer edges inward. Always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the rug first to ensure it doesn't cause damage or discolouration.
Wool: Absorb as much liquid as possible by blotting the area – do not rub. Use a mild detergent mixed with water to gently blot the stain, working from the outer edges inward. Always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the rug first to ensure it doesn't cause damage or discolouration.
Jute: As a natural fibre jute has variations in the colour. Absorb as much liquid as possible by blotting the area – do not rub. Spot clean with a minimal amount of warm water.
Bamboo Silk: Blot up liquids with a clean, white cloth or paper towel to absorb as much liquid as possible. Blot, do not rub. Spot cleaning may cause colour change or marking. If stain persists seek professional advice.
Serious Stains or Damage: For more serious soiling contact an experienced rug cleaning professional to advise before proceeding