Persian Rug Cleaning

Persian rug cleaning can be done yourself although it is a time consuming process, especially with large rugs. You may prefer to send it out to be cleaned by proffessionals.

If cleaning yourself the process is best done in a utility room or garage (on a clean floor) or outside on a clean driveway or paved walk on a nice, sunny day. Clean using the following steps:

1. Vacuum both sides well.

2. Shampoo the rug with cool water and mild liquid soap or rug shampoo (don't use strong detergents, ammonia water or sudsy ammonia water). Use a soft, long haired brush or a firm, non-shedding sponge. Brush the pile firmly with linear motions in the direction of the nap: don't scrub too vigorously. Wet the nap thoroughly with the soapy water.

3. Wash fringes with the same soap solution. Use a laundry brush and brush repeatedly away from the pile.

4. Rinse thoroughly with running water.

5. Squeeze out excess water--a rubber window squeegee works well. Squeegee the pile repeatedly in the direction of the nap until no more water is forced out.

6. Lay flat to dry. When the nap feels dry, turn the rug over; the back is probably still damp. DRY THOROUGHLY.

7. If the pile feels a bit stiff when dry, brush gently or lightly vacuum.