High-quality Persian rugs are hand-woven from the finest materials and are the epitome of sophistication. They’re durable and can last for decades if properly taken care of. However, some things might affect their longevity making them more prone to damage. Let’s take a look at those things that you need to avoid if you want your handmade rugs to last for long.

Avoid Excessive Sunlight Exposure

Persian rugs aren’t made for open area decor, especially for direct sunlight. They’re hand-woven and naturally dyed, being too delicate to be used under excessive sunlight exposure.

Sunlight has UV rays that can fade away the naturally dyed wool. And if exposed for too long, there are chances this wool might be damaged. Then, you won’t be able to recover it anyway.

Avoid Excessive Foot Traffic

Though we’ve said in the very beginning that Persian rugs last long, that’s only possible if they’re properly taken care of. For instance, you’re not supposed to use these rugs for heavy foot traffic areas, otherwise, there are chances you might damage your rug earlier than it’s supposed to.

These beautiful designs are made for decorating areas that aren’t used excessively. However, if you don’t have a choice, we recommend rotating your Persian rug at least once or twice a year to avoid excessive damage to one side only.

Avoid Using DIY Cleaning Methods

You’re not supposed to scrub off your Persian rugs with cleaning agents like bleach or some strong chemicals. Remember, they’re delicate and need proper cleaning methods. So, your first option should be to take your rug to professional rug cleaning services. Spending these bucks will make your rug damage-free for long. The professionals are well aware of how to handle these rugs and keep their colors intact.

However, if you’re trying to save money, we recommend educating yourself about Persian rug cleaning first. Cleaning these rugs is a bit different from other types of rugs. For instance, it’s best to use mild, low-pH soaps for Persian rug cleaning, as they’re made of natural fibers like wool or silk.

Avoid Vacuuming On High Settings

Persian rugs are hand-woven, and if you vacuum them on high settings, there are chances you might pull off the delicate fiber, resulting in an uneven surface that might wear out soon. Plus, since the fiber is naturally dyed, vacuuming it on a high setting will cause the colors to bleed or fade away soon.

So, it’s highly recommended to clean your Persian rugs naturally, but if you’re bound to clean them inside, clean them on low settings.

Avoid Using Just Any Broom Or Brush

You can’t use stiff brushes or brooms for your Persian rugs, as these could result in either shedding or pilling of the yarns. Plus, a stiff brush would also cause gentle fiber knots at the back of your rug to come loose. Instead, either take your rug out and dust it off under the sunlight in fresh air, or vacuum it regularly on low settings.

Avoid Placing Rugs In Areas Frequently Visited By Pets

Persian rugs aren’t for casual use, they’re art pieces, a true embodiment of craft skills. And you must avoid placing them in areas where your pets have unattended access, otherwise, they can cause wear and tear to the delicate fibers with their claws. Sometimes, pets can even urinate or defecate on the rugs, causing permanent staining and color fading. So, be attentive when it comes to protecting your rug from pets.

However, damage is still inevitable anyway. So, if any of the above-mentioned scenarios occur, contact professional cleaning services for help. They’ll also help remove even the most difficult fur shedding.

Avoid Moisture Seeping Into Your Persian Rug

Don’t let your rug get wet too often, and if it happens, try to dry it out quickly, otherwise, your rug will lose its shape and start looking shaggy. Moreover, the water will damage the naturally dyed fiber of your Persian rug and the colors will bleed out soon or these dyes will leave a permanent stain on your rug.

There are higher chances that your Persian rug will get mildew or mold growth if it stays wet for long. Also, the fiber will shrink from moisture.

Avoid Steaming Or Wet Cleaning Your Rug

Persian antique rugs Virginia are valuable pieces of art, and they should be properly taken care of. It is important to note that you cannot clean these rugs with a steamer or with direct use of water. They’re different and should be cleaned differently. Don’t be inspired by those carpet cleaning videos you see on social media.

That’s not the appropriate way to clean your Persian rugs. Instead, go for dry cleaning methods or vacuum cleaning on low settings. Water can damage the natural dyes of your rug, and it can also ruin the intricate patterns of a Persian rug. Plus, your rug will shrink if it remains underwater for long.

Avoid Hanging To Dry

Keep in mind that you cannot hang your Persian rugs to dry, like how you dry your synthetic rugs, otherwise, they will start to look shabby and even. The right way to dry these rugs is by laying them out on a clean dry surface. Make sure the surface is flat and even. And then, let the rug dry naturally.

Avoid Placing Anything Hot Or Sharp On Your Rug

The fabric that is used to make Persian rugs is usually either wool or silk. It doesn’t matter what the material is; it is always of high quality. That’s just how Persian rugs are made. Naturally and with good quality, which in return makes them more prone to damage.

For instance, if you put any hot object over a Persian rug, it will cause scorching of the fibers and leave a permanent mark of burn. Or, if you put any sharp object over your rug, there is a high chance that it will tear or puncture your rug. That’s why you must avoid placing these things over your delicate Persian rugs.

Avoid Storing It The Wrong Way

Lastly, you should be very careful while storing these Persian rugs. Make sure you’re not rolling them tightly, and place them flat on the floor that is clean and dry. Be very careful about the moisture level of the room. You know how water is the biggest damaging factor for your Persian rugs.

Avoid rolling and wrapping these rugs in plastic bags, because moisture can easily seep through and stay inside plastic wraps. Also, never store your rug in an upright position against the wall. These are intricate pieces and storing them this way would damage the lower part that is bearing the weight of the rug.

Conclusion

Following these tips can help maintain the beauty of your Persian rugs, and they can last for generations. However, if the damage has already occurred, do not try to repair it yourself, otherwise, this will further damage your rug.

In fact, the right solution would be to take it to a professional rug repairer and get it repaired. Also, make sure you take your rug to a professional cleaner at least once a year to maintain its longevity. In case you need a new rug, take a look at some wonderful wholesale Persian rugs VA.