RUG CARE AND MAINTENANCE

Guidelines

Rug Care & Maintenance

If properly cared for, hand-knotted rugs will last for generations and increase in value as they age. For serious cleaning or stain removal, IAN SAUDE recommends consulting a company that specializes in cleaning hand-knotted rugs.

Placement

To adjust placement of a rug, rapidly wave the edge of the rug up and down a foot or two away from the floor while pulling. This ripple effect sends a cushion of air under the rug and makes it easier to move . If a rug has been folded (baled) for shipping, there may be initial creases when it is placed. To remedy wrinkles, lightly mist the rug (unless it is hemp/linen) with water and gently massage pile .

Padding

Rug pads prevent sliding, offer further sound absorption, and protect a rug from crushing underneath foot or furniture. Rug pads also protect flooring underneath the rug from wear and spills. Rug pads are available from a wide variety of sources depending on your particular application and personal preferences. Please contact us for recommendations based upon your specific installation.

Vacuuming

Weekly vacuuming with a stationary brush hose attachment removes surface dirt before it settles, and prevents moth damage. Vacuums with rotating bristle brushes may exacerbate shedding and tear fibers, and therefore not recommended. Please disengage the beater-brush feature when vacuuming fine rugs.

Wear

To reduce fading and uneven wear, rotate your rug 180 degrees at least once a year, if possible.

Sprouting

Hand-knotted rugs periodically sprout loose threads, which can be cut away with a small pair of scissors. As a rug is composed of thousands of individual knots, so trimming a sprouted yarn will not compromise the integrity or appearance of the rug.

Shedding

Silk, wool rugs and other natural fiber rugs will occasionally shed loose fibers, especially when new. Shedding will dissipate over time and should not be a concern. Regular vacuuming with a hose attachment is recommended to reduce the appearance of shedding, especially for the first six months.

Storage

Rugs, when not being used, should be stored in a cool, dry place that is elevated to avoid water damage . If they are being stored for an extended period of time, rugs should be rolled on a tube and covered with protective acid-free plastic such as Tyvek. Do not use paper to wrap a rug. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight. Placing heavy objects on top of a rug or storing a rug folded for long periods of time can crush the pile leaving marks that are permanent or otherwise hard to remove without having the rug professionally bath cleaned.