Some of our favorite recent projects are explained below. Due to the special nature of their fibers, wool and silk rugs require special care in cleaning. This is to minimize the risk of damage and because of the difficulty in thoroughly removing all dust and dirt. Extra care and attention are also needed in dealing with stains and pet odors.
Wool Rugs
Wool is a marvelous rug fiber. It’s warm underfoot, naturally resists bacteria and repels stains, and with proper care is very durable. Not to mention gorgeous. But it does collect more grime and dust than other fibers.
Despite what you may have read, woolen rugs shouldn’t be steam cleaned or machine cleaned. It’s important that they not become soaked nor have their natural oils depleted. They need to be kept flat and not allowed to wrinkle, warp, or contract. If you insist, you can carefully wash small areas one at a time, blotting out excess moisture as you go. But only professionals have the right equipment and commercial cleansers to do the job thoroughly and safely. Once a year is generally recommended, even with weekly to monthly vacuuming.
Wool Rugs Recent Projects
We’re especially proud of several recent projects.
- Removed a reddish stain of unknown origin using a stain remover and a steam iron.
- Cleaned an unusually large rug in Riverside.
- Cleaned a heavily soiled Turkish rug, including dirty fringe.
- Restored cotton fringe on a wool rug.
- Gently cleaned a rare and delicate Isfahan wool and silk rug (a uniquely difficult combination).
Silk
Silk is the utmost in elegant oriental rugs. Silk fibers are among the strongest in the world yet should only be cleaned with the mildest of products. And they’re highly vulnerable to stains, dirt, and abrasion.
Tip: Spills on silk rugs should be immediately be blotted with warm water on a white towel. Blot, don’t rub! If you can’t completely remove the spill it’s time for professional spot removal.
Tip: Silk rugs should be vacuumed as often as twice weekly, but only with a brush-less suction head.
Silk Rug Cleaning Recent Projects
Two examples of our recent work on these delicate silk treasures:
Pet Accidents
It’s important to deal with pet stains as soon as possible, before they do lasting harm. That’s especially true if your cat or dog has a spot they especially like repeatedly to “mark.” Urine and vomit are acidic and given time damage wool and especially silk. Once dried they leave behind alkali crystals which are also damaging. And organics become trapped giving rise to long-lasting odors even if there’s no longer a visible spot.
Your first line of defense is immediately blotting with a towel and warm water until there’s no detectable color. Or you might try diluted white vinegar or a product specially formulated for silk or wool fibers. Don’t forget the back side of the rug and the floor underneath. If anything (stain or odor) lingers it’s time for professional spot removal, as soon as possible.
Pet Accidents Recent Projects
We’re especially proud of our fine area rug rescues. Here are some recent examples.
- Large-area pet odor and stain removal using a submersion bath.
- Immediate flushing urine from a wool rug, also using full immersion.
- Urine decontamination for a treasured Tabriz oriental rug.
- Many hours spent eliminating dog urine from an antique braided wool rug.