Caring for Fine Rugs


How to Clean Your Rug at Home

The beauty of handmade carpets and fine rugs can last a very long time if they are properly cared for and can even become heirloom pieces to be passed down throughout generations. However, regular care is needed to help maintain the beauty of your fine rugs and extra care and attention must be taken not to damage the rugs’ fragile fibers.

Regularly vacuuming is important to remove dirt, pet hair and sand. However, because many of today’s vacuums and chemicals are made to be used on the synthetic wall-to-wall carpets that are found in the majority of homes, it’s not recommended that you vacuum with an appliance that has a beater bar attachment. Rather, opt for a canister vacuum with a suction attachment.

If your rug has fringes, take care not to vacuum them: they can get caught up in the rotating mechanism of the brush, which can chew them up. Once or twice a year, vacuum the back of the rug. In addition, rotate your fine rug once a year to even out its wear and its exposure to sunlight.

A good rug pad will prevent slippage and will help promote adequate airflow. This will help protect your fine rug from the additional wear and tear of everyday use. Gabberts has several options for pads based on where and how the rug will be used. Pads should be a couple of inches smaller than the rug on all sides, excluding the fringe. If you have any questions about the type of rug pad to use, be sure to contact one of our in-house design experts to help guide you to the right piece that will protect your fine rug for years to come.

Be sure to quickly blot up everyday accidents with cold water; use a very mild white or clear soap, such as Ivory or Woolite.

Finally, when your rug begins to look dirty, find a reputable professional cleaner who specializes in oriental or handwoven rugs; do not attempt to clean it yourself.