A Rug Expert’s Guide

Antique rugs are more than just decorative items — they are woven works of art, rich in history, craftsmanship, and cultural significance. Whether it’s a Persian, Turkish, Caucasian, or Arts & Crafts rug, each piece deserves the utmost care to preserve its beauty and value.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to clean an antique rug properly, safely, and with respect to its age and materials.

🧶 Why Antique Rugs Require Special Care

Antique and vintage rugs are often:

• Hand-knotted from natural fibres (wool, cotton, silk)

• Dyed with natural pigments

• Prone to dry rot, moth damage, or colour bleeding if mistreated

Harsh chemical cleaners, steam cleaning, or modern carpet shampooing methods can do more harm than good.

🧼 The Best Way to Clean an Antique Rug: Step-by-Step

1. Regular Dusting & Vacuuming

Use a low-suction vacuum or shake the rug outside weekly to remove surface dust. Always vacuum with the pile direction, and avoid the fringes — they’re delicate and easy to tear.

💡 Tip: Flip the rug every 6 months to ensure even wear and light exposure.

2. Surface Spot Cleaning

If there’s a spill, act fast. Blot (don’t rub) using a clean white towel. Then dab gently with cold water. Avoid harsh detergents or supermarket cleaners.

For persistent stains, consult a professional.

3. Deep Cleaning — Only by Specialists

Once every few years (or if heavily soiled), your antique rug should be cleaned professionally.

At Sharafi & Co, we offer museum-standard antique rug cleaning in London, using:

• pH-neutral cleansers

• hand-brushing methods

• cold-water rinses and sun drying

This protects the rug’s fibre structure, dyes, and patina — ensuring the rug lasts for generations.

⚠️ Common Rug Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Steam cleaning or soaking antique rugs

• ❌ Using hot water — can shrink fibres and cause colour run

• ❌ Rotating brushes or high-powered vacuums

• ❌ Bleach or harsh chemicals

🐛 Moth-Proofing Your Antique Rugs

Moth larvae love to feed on wool, especially in undisturbed corners. To prevent moth damage:

• Keep rugs clean and dust-free

• Move furniture occasionally

• Use natural moth repellents (lavender, cedar)

• Have rugs professionally treated every few years

🧵 When to Seek Rug Restoration

If your rug shows signs of:

• Fraying edges or unraveling

• Holes or worn spots

• Colour fade from sun or water damage

…it may be time for antique rug restoration. Our skilled weavers can rebind, reweave, and recolour your piece by hand — preserving its authenticity and market value.

📍 Antique Rug Cleaning in London: Trust the Experts

At Sharafi & Co, we’ve spent over 30 years caring for handmade rugs — from 19th-century Persian carpets to bespoke Arts & Crafts reproductions. Whether you need a light surface clean or a full museum-grade wash, we treat every rug as the irreplaceable artwork it is.

🧽 Get in touch to schedule a cleaning consultation
[📞 +44 (0)20 8735 0701]
[✉️ info@sharafiandco.com]
[🌐 www.sharafiandco.com/services/cleaning]