Tips for Properly Caring for Your Rug: From Regular Cleaning to Natural Cleaning Methods
Oriental Turkish rugs are known for their intricate designs, vibrant colors, and high-quality materials. These rugs are a beautiful addition to your home decor and an investment that can last for generations. To keep your oriental Turkish rug in good condition and ensure its longevity, you need to provide proper care and maintenance. In this article, we will discuss some tips on how to care for an oriental Turkish rug.
Regular Rug Cleaning:
The first and most important step in caring for an oriental Turkish rug is regular cleaning. You should vacuum your rug at least once a week to remove dirt, dust, and debris. Use a vacuum with a low-power setting and a brush attachment to avoid damaging the fibres. Make sure you vacuum both sides of the rug, as dirt and dust can also accumulate on the back.
If you prefer to use natural cleaning methods, one of the most popular natural cleaning methods is using baking soda and vinegar. First, sprinkle baking soda on your rug, let it sit for a few hours, and then vacuum it. Next, mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and lightly spray the affected area. Blot the area with a clean cloth and rinse with water.
Spot Cleaning:
If you spill something on your oriental Turkish rug, it’s important to clean it up immediately to prevent staining. Blot the spill with a clean, dry cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible. Then, mix a small amount of mild detergent with water and gently clean the affected area with a clean cloth. Rinse the area thoroughly with water and blot dry with a clean towel. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as these can damage the fibres and colors of your rug. If you’re dealing with stubborn stains or odors, it’s best to consult a professional rug cleaner.
Rotate the Rug:
To prevent uneven wear and fading, it’s important to rotate your oriental Turkish rug every six months. This will ensure that the rug wears evenly and maintains its vibrant colors.
Protect from Sunlight:
Direct sunlight can cause the colors of your oriental Turkish rug to fade over time. To protect your rug from sunlight, avoid placing it in areas with direct sunlight.
Professional Cleaning:
In addition to regular cleaning, you should also have your oriental Turkish rug professionally cleaned every two to three years. Professional cleaning can help remove deep-seated dirt, stains, and odours from your rug and restore its original beauty and quality.
Practical Stain Removal Procedure for Oriental Rugs
Coffee, tea, soft drinks, beer, wine, vomit
Mix 1 tablespoon mild detergent, 1/3 cup white vinegar, 2/3 cup water.
- Remove excess material by absorbing liquids and scraping semi-solids
- Apply solution, blot the carpet, and gently brush the pile
- Apply many layers of towelling over the affected area, weigh down, and leave until dry.
Egg, milk, blood, candy, ice cream, chocolate, sugar, and salad dressing
Mix 1 cup water, 2 tablespoons ammonia, and 1 tablespoon mild detergent.
- Remove excess material, absorbing liquids and scraping semi-solids
- Apply solution, blot the carpet, and gently brush the pile
- Apply many layers of towelling over the affected area, weigh down, and leave until dry
- Apply a non-flammable dry-cleaning solvent, dry the carpet, and gently brush the pile.
Oil, tar, butter, grease
- Remove excess material
- Apply a non-flammable dry-cleaning solvent
- Blot dry, and brush the pile gently.
Chewing gum
- Press ice cubes against the spot
- Wait until it becomes brittle and breaks off
- Use a spot remover to get rid of the last traces.
Ballpoint pen ink
- Saturate the spot with unscented hairspray
- Allow drying
- Brush lightly with a solution of water and vinegar. Blot dry.
The following stains should be removed only by a professional.
Lipstick – rouge – nail polish – rust – dried mustard – furniture stain – candle wax
