BEFORE CLEANING YOUR RUG
CHECK THE CARE LABEL
Always begin by checking the care label, typically located on the back of your rug, as it provides important instructions for proper cleaning and maintenance.
KNOW WHEN TO CLEAN
All rugs, regardless of material, are designed for daily use and foot traffic. Regular vacuuming and prompt spot cleaning can help maintain their appearance and longevity. However, over time, rugs may require more thorough care. If your rug begins to show signs of wear, discoloration, or develops an unpleasant odor, it is likely time for a deeper cleaning to restore its look and freshness.
SHAKE IT OUT
Begin by taking your rug outside and giving it a thorough shake to remove loose dust and dirt. Regularly shaking out your rug helps maintain its appearance and prolong its lifespan.
VACUUM BOTH SIDES
After shaking out your rug, vacuum both the front and back to remove any remaining dust, dirt, and debris. This thorough approach helps maintain the rug’s cleanliness, preserves its fibers, and extends its overall lifespan.
GENERAL CARE TIPS
PLACEMENT
Proper placement of your rug helps protect it from damage and extends its lifespan. Place rugs away from direct sunlight and moisture to prevent fading, warping, or mildew. For delicate designs, avoid high-traffic areas, and rotate rugs regularly to ensure even wear and maintain their appearance.
ROTATION
Area rugs placed in high-traffic areas will naturally wear faster than those in low-traffic spaces. To help extend their lifespan and keep them looking even, rotate your rug every few months—or at least every 6–12 months—to distribute wear and fading more evenly.
HUMIDITY
Maintain a balanced indoor humidity level, as both excess moisture and overly dry air can damage rugs. Long-term exposure to humid conditions can weaken a rug’s foundation and fibres, while excessively dry air can make fibres brittle.
FLATTENING AND REMOVING CREASES
All our rugs are manufactured and imported from Turkey, rolled tightly, wrapped in plastic to protect them from damage and dirt, and stored in our warehouse. This process, along with packing and shipping, may cause temporary creases in some rugs, which is not considered a defect. To remove them, lay the rug flat, allow time for the fibres to relax, or gently back-roll/reverse-roll the rug.
SPILL RESPONSE
Address spills immediately to prevent stains from setting. Blot spills gently with a clean, white cloth or paper towel—never rub as this can push the stain deeper into the fibers—to absorb the liquid, working from the outside in to avoid spreading. For stubborn stains, use a mild detergent diluted with water or a cleaner designed for synthetic rugs, testing first on an inconspicuous area. After cleaning, blot excess moisture and allow the rug to air dry completely. For liquid spills, it is crucial to act quickly – immediate attention can often prevent permanent staining. Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, or ammonia-based cleaners, as these can damage fibers and colors.
PROTECTION FROM FURNITURE MARKS
To prevent permanent indentations and flattening of your rug pile, place rug protectors under the legs of heavy furniture. Rotating your rug every few months will also help relieve areas from excessive wear and ensure even use across the rug’s surface. Occasionally shifting furniture slightly can further protect your rug and maintain its appearance.
DRYING
After any spot or deep cleaning, it is crucial to ensure the rug is dried completely to prevent mildew or odor. Lay the rug flat to air dry and avoid exposing it to direct heat or sunlight, which can cause fading or fiber damage. Make sure both sides of the rug are dry before placing it back on the floor.
ROUTINE MAINTENANCE
REGULAR VACUUMING
Vacuuming is essential to maintain your rug’s appearance and longevity. Vacuum high-traffic areas 1–2 times per week and low-traffic areas every 1–2 weeks. Use a vacuum without a beater bar, or set it to the highest pile setting, to protect the fibres.
BRUSHING/SWEEPING
For low-pile or flat-weave rugs, use a soft-bristled brush or broom to remove surface dust, lint, and debris. Brushing is especially effective at removing stubborn pet hairs that a vacuum may miss. Always brush or sweep in the direction of the rug fibres to avoid damage and maintain the pile’s texture.
PROFESSIONAL CLEANING
Even with diligent care, rugs benefit from professional cleaning every 12–18 months, or sooner if they are in high-traffic areas. Area rugs need professional cleaning after at least one year of use, as this process removes deeply embedded dirt and helps eliminate dark stains that regular cleaning cannot address. Professional cleaning revitalises the rug’s appearance, but please note that the rug cannot be restored to a 100% new condition afterward.
SHAKING & BEATING
Rugs can be taken outside and shaken to remove dust, grit and debris. Be careful not to use excessive force as this may damage the rug.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
PET ACCIDENTS
Pets can leave stains and odors that may set quickly into rug fibers. Blot accidents immediately using an enzymatic cleaner that is safe for synthetic rugs. Avoid rubbing, as this can push stains deeper. For recurring issues, consider a protective rug pad or pet-friendly rug treatment to reduce staining and wear.
OUTDOOR RUGS
Outdoor rugs face dirt, moisture, and sunlight, which can speed up wear. Clean them by hosing with water and mild soap, then allow them to dry completely before returning them to their place. Avoid prolonged direct sunlight to prevent fading, and always check the care label on the back of the rug before cleaning.
FRINGES AND EDGES
Fringes and edges are delicate and prone to damage from vacuuming or heavy foot traffic. Avoid using a vacuum on fringes; instead, gently shake or brush them by hand.
SHAKING & BEATING
Rugs can be taken outside and shaken to remove dust, grit and debris. Be careful not to use excessive force as this may damage the rug.
WHAT NOT TO DO
Avoid using steam cleaners on machine-made rugs, as this can cause shrinkage or fiber damage. Rugs should never be soaked or left damp, and heavy furniture should not be dragged across them. Additionally, avoid using harsh scrubbing brushes, which can damage the fibres and reduce the rug’s lifespan.
WHEN TO CALL A PROFESSIONAL
Call a professional if your rug has persistent stains that do not lift with spot cleaning, heavy pet odor or accidents, or if it appears dull or matted despite regular maintenance. Water damage or signs of mildew also require professional attention to prevent further deterioration and preserve the rug’s quality.