rug care

handmade rugs are a beautiful and valuable addition to any home. with proper care, they can last for generations. here are some tips on how to care for your handmade rug:

1. Rug pads

   we advise you use a rug pad to protect the floor and minimize wear and prevent the rug from slipping. we offer quality anti slip rug pads that can be cut to size for your rug.

2. Vacuuming

   vacuum your rug regularly using suction only, do not use a beater bar or bristles. be sure to go back and forth in the same direction over the entire rug to prevent matting and avoid vacuuming the fringes. we recommend vacuuming once per week to prevent everyday dust and dirt build up, or twice a week in high traffic areas, and periodically vacuuming the back of the rug.

3. Rotate your rug

   it is important to rotate your rug regularly to allow the rug to wear evenly and maintain its original appearance. we recommend rotating every 6 to 12 months, depending on if you notice any difference in the pile direction or shape, or if any high traffic area needs to be evened out.

4. Fading

   we use the highest quality dyes that have passed fade resistance testing; however, all rugs will fade slightly as they age. direct sunlight can increase the likelihood of colour fade as no dye is completely photostable. to minimize this, we advise you rotate rugs for an even colour.

5. Storage

   when not in use, store rugs rolled with face of the carpet on the inside of the roll. store in tyvek or other water-resistant, breathable material to avoid dust and odours. to prevent interference from rodents or moths, which can both destroy a rug, keep the rug stored in a dry area above ground, and include moth flakes inside the packaging.

6. Restoration and Repair

   handmade rugs can be restored and repaired should there be wear at the edges and ends of the rug, or a tear has occurred. we are happy to recommend local restorers should your rug get damaged and requires professional repair.

7. Shedding

   initially when your rug is installed there could be additional fibres on the surface of the rug. it is completely normal for handmade rugs to shed during the first few months as it loses excess fibres created during the weaving process. continue to vacuum as normal and the shedding will subside. pile shedding does not affect the life of the rug.

8. Tufts

   if yarns happen to come loose, or strands appear to be sprouting from the rug, do not tug or pull. use a small, sharp pair of scissors to carefully snip any loose fibres, to the same pile height as the surrounding fibres. if the fringes are uneven these can be snipped.

stain removal and spot cleaning

1. blot

   when spills happen, blot up immediately with a white cloth or paper towel. do not scrub as this could create fuzzing. blotting alone may remove all evidence, but if any discoloration remains, repeat blotting several times using club soda, or a mild wool-only detergent diluted in lukewarm water. work from the outside of the stain in towards the centre to avoid spreading. do not use any harsh chemicals as these could affect the fibres of the rug. it’s important that minimal moisture is added and that the rug does not become too wet, as this could create a halo effect and spread the stain or push it further into the fibres.

2. dry

   draw out all remaining dampness with a dry cotton towel. remove as much moisture as possible. let the rug dry naturally, ensure it is fully dry before replacing furniture. ideally, lift the rug off the pad in order for the air to circulate and the moisture to evaporate completely to prevent mould or mildew developing, and keep flat.

3. brush

   when the area is dry, brush the fibers. using small strokes, brush out in the same direction as the pile with a soft bristle brush to restore the texture.

4. brush

   when the area is dry, brush the fibres. using small strokes, brush out in the same direction as the pile with a soft bristle brush to restore the texture.

5. professional cleaning

   if you have a major spill or stain you should contact a professional cleaning service immediately. do not attempt to use any chemicals or steam clean your rug without professional expertise.

for general maintenance we recommend having your rug professionally cleaned every two years or as required. please make an appointment with a professional rug cleaner.

1. Wool and Merino

   our wool rugs are luxurious and durable as well as rich in lanolin which is naturally stain and moisture resistant. vacuum your rug regularly without using a beater brush and if small spills occur then follow our spot cleaning method. should a large spill take place we recommend contacting a professional cleaning company.

2. Cashmere and Mohair

   these fibres have the warmth and durability of wool, with the added benefit of being super soft. vacuum regularly without using a beater brush. these fibres are naturally resistant to dirt but are porous so can absorb spills quickly so act immediately using the spot cleaning technique. separate from the rug pad and let the rug dry naturally flat. should a large spill take place we recommend contacting a professional cleaning company.

3. Silk

   silk is known for its lustre, shine, strength and durability. silk is a strong fibre, however, it becomes delicate when wet, so extra care needs to be taken when cleaning. use the spot cleaning method on small stains but with cold water only, and use a soft brush to move the fibres back into place once dry. we recommend consulting a rug cleaning specialist should a noticeable spill occur on your silk rug.

4. Eucalyptus Silk

   a plant-based alternative to silk, this has a lustrous sheen and is made more durable when blended with wool. our general spot cleaning method can be applied for small spills using minimal moisture. avoid steaming or ironing the rug altogether as this could react with the fibres and create heat spots.

5. Allo / Linen / Hemp / Jute

   all are bast fibres also known as plant-based fibres. due to the natural variation in shades these tend to be more forgiving of stains. regular vacuuming on a low setting or brushing is recommended. our general spot cleaning method can be applied for small spills using minimal moisture. avoid getting the rug wet and this may spread and cause a halo effect. let the rug dry naturally in a well-ventilated area, avoid heat or direct sunlight.

6. Polypropylene / PET

   made from entirely recycled man-made fibres, these qualities are highly durable, resistant to stains and can withstand sunlight, making them suitable for indoor and outdoor use. regularly vacuum on a low setting without beater brush, using a hard surface attachment. the weather series can be cleaned by using the spot cleaning technique and rinsing with water, then should be dried completely laying on a flat surface. we recommend the performance soumak to be professionally cleaned.

7. Alpaca

   soft, durable and hypoallergenic due to it being lanolin free, the alpaca quality is a great luxury addition. vacuum regularly, avoid getting wet, and clean dirt using a wire brush. brush in the same direction as the pile and use a clean dry cloth to remove any remaining dirt particles.