Carpet Care

Normal carpet care consists of two steps. First, periodic cleaning will remove accumulated dust from the pile of the rug. Second, the rug should be washed completely by professional washers (not dry cleaners) once every 10 to 15 years. This is the most suitable cleaning method. For further details, please contact the Hereke Carpet Weavers Association.

The rug should be gently vacuum cleaned once a week and thoroughly once a month to prevent dust and crumbs from settling in the pile. For best results, a low-power or hand-held vacuum is recommended. Vacuuming should be done slowly and carefully, working in the direction of the pile nap. Scrubbing back and forth is not recommended. Rugs displayed on the floor, which are in constant use, should be vacuumed from the back as well as the front on a regular basis. New rugs may contain some loose wool yarn, which will be removed after a few vacuuming sessions.

Spills and soiled areas of a rug may simply be cleaned with soap and water. A small amount of ordinary soap or rug shampoo should be poured into a container of cold water. The soiled area should then be washed with a clean sponge or gentle brush. Soap must be thoroughly removed with a clean cloth and the rug left to dry. If water has been completely absorbed, then the underside of the rug must be dried as well.

It is neither practical nor necessary to maintain strict archival standards in the home, but knowledge of potential threats will help you protect and enjoy your treasures. Light, temperature and relative humidity, dust and dirt, insects, and improper storage or display are the primary causes of textile damage. Therefore, the critical factors in maintaining your collection are control of environmental conditions, proper display techniques, and proper storage.

Light, especially ultraviolet (UV) radiation is one of the greatest threats to any textile. Window shades, curtains, UV-filters, and a rotating collection will limit exposure and offer a good measure of protection. High temperatures, excessive heat, and high humidity accelerate the deterioration of textiles and provide a desirable climate for insects, mold and mildew. A climate of 65-70°F and 50-55% relative humidity is ideal. Dirt and dust are the most common enemies of private collections. When working with any textile collection, it is best to wash your hands to remove oils, acids, salts, and soils which might leave a stain.

When not on display, the best location in your home for textile storage is a cool, dry room. Attics and basements should be avoided as storage spaces. Archival packaging materials are recommended. Textiles should be stored flat whenever possible, but rolling is an option, particularly for large rugs. Carpets should be rolled in the direction of the pile to prevent distortion and crushing.