A good antique rug has already crossed a century, and with the right care it will cross another. The good news is that day-to-day maintenance is simple: these are wool pieces, a naturally hard-wearing material, and they ask for more common sense than work. Here we have gathered what really matters to keep your piece looking beautiful for a long time.
Everyday cleaning
The basics are to vacuum regularly, always in the direction of the pile, to lift the dust before it settles deep in the weave. One important point: avoid the rotating brush roller (the kind that “beats” the rug), because it pulls at and wears down the knots and fringes. Use suction only, or the flat nozzle, and go lightly over the edges. Every so often, it is worth vacuuming the back as well. Twice a year, lift the rug, let it air and clean the floor underneath. This airs the piece and helps prevent mould and moths.
What prevents wear
A few simple habits make a rug last much longer:
- Rotate the piece every six months or a year. That way the wear and fading even out, instead of marking only the part that gets the most sun or foot traffic.
- Keep it out of direct, constant sun. Strong light fades the natural dyes over time. A light curtain is enough to solve it.
- Use a non-slip underlay beneath it. It protects the base of the rug, keeps it from sliding and cushions the friction with the floor.
- Do not leave the piece damp. Standing moisture rots the base. If it gets wet, dry it well and in the air.
Stains: what to do straight away
If something spills, act quickly, but calmly. Absorb the liquid with a clean, dry cloth, pressing, without rubbing — rubbing spreads the stain and damages the wool. If you need to, use a little cold water. Avoid strong products, hot water and bleach, which can strip the colour. For stubborn stains, it is better not to persist with home chemistry and to call a professional.
When to call a professional
A deep clean, from time to time (every few years, depending on use), does the piece good. But an antique rug does not go in the machine, nor to an ordinary rug laundry: it needs hand-washing, done by someone who understands wool pieces and natural dyes. The same goes for repairs to fringes and edges, which, done in good time, head off a bigger problem down the line. If you have any doubt about your piece, talk to us and we will point you to the best path. Some marks of time, by the way, are neither dirt nor defect, and are part of the charm of a hundred-year-old piece. We explain which in should I worry about the imperfections in my antique rug.
Caring for it preserves its value
A well-cared-for rug not only lasts longer but also holds its value better over time. It is one of the things that count when a piece is assessed, as we explain in how rug values are determined. And if you are still to buy yours, it is worth seeing the collection of antique Persian rugs for sale.
Talk to us
If you have a question about caring for your rug, or a stain you are not sure how to handle, just get in touch. We are happy to help, with no rush and no obligation.
