Rug Care & Common Characteristics
With proper care, a new rug can look its best for years to come. This doesn’t just apply to how rugs are cleaned, but also how they are stored and what other products are used with them to extend their lifespan.
COLOUR
Sometimes very slight colour variations occur across dye lots so the colour of handmade rugs may be marginally different from samples, or each production.
CREASING
When a new rug is delivered it may show some creases from being folded for shipping. These will disappear after the rug has been laid flat for some time. Rolling the rug with the pile facing outwards and leaving it like that overnight will speed the process up.
ODOUR
As rugs are shipped in a sealed bag, odours from dyes and fibres can accumulate over time. This odour will naturally dissipate over time when the rug is removed from its bag.
WEAR AND FADING
Rugs are subject to wear and tear over time and can become faded if exposed to direct sunlight. They should be rotated every three months to minimise this.
SHEDDING AND SPROUTS
New rugs often shed loose fibres as a natural part of the wearing in process. This will stop with time, particularly after they have been vacuumed a few times. Some rugs are more prone to shedding than others. Some loose, long fibres, known as “sprouts ”, may appear above the surface of the rug and can be trimmed with scissors to even the pile.
Cleaning Your Rugs
GENERAL TIPS
WOOL RUGS
NATURAL FIBRE RUGS
VACUUMING
Regular vacuuming, ie. weekly, is important to keep rugs in top condition. It helps to remove any surface dirt before it can be ground into the fibres and helps prevent discolouration and staining with time.
VACUUMING TIPS
STORAGE
Proper storage of rugs is important to prolong their lifespan and prevent them from becoming damaged over time. Ideally, the rug should first be thoroughly cleaned and dried before being rolled up and left in a cool, dry, dark space. Climate-controlled spaces are preferable to prevent fluctuations in temperature and humidity that can damage rugs.
RUG STORAGE TIPS
• If possible, wrap rugs in plastic or fabric before storage
• Clean storage areas regularly to discourage insects
• Rugs should not have heavy objects placed on top of them as these can cause damage and compression to fibres.