Identify what is known and what is uncertain
Start with any label, purchase information or previous care advice. If you do not know the fibre, say so. A shiny appearance does not establish that a rug is silk, and a description from a previous owner may be incomplete.
For an initial discussion, send photographs of the whole rug, the back, the fringe and any label. Include close-ups of problem areas. These help us understand the enquiry, but inspection is needed before deciding what treatment is suitable.
Look beyond the visible stain
A worn edge, brittle area, old repair or loose foundation can affect safe handling. We assess the rug’s construction and existing condition as well as the dirt you want removed. Tell us about a previous wash, water incident or colour bleed, even if it happened years ago.
Fringe is often part of the rug’s foundation rather than a decorative strip that can be treated separately. Aggressive brushing or bleaching can damage it. Changes to fringe colour or weakness should be discussed during assessment.
Why colour stability matters
Cleaning introduces moisture and products that can affect unstable dyes. Testing helps identify risk, but the wider condition and treatment history also matter. Where a risk is identified, we explain the limitation and the options before proceeding.
The right decision may be a modified treatment or declining a process that is unsuitable. Specialist care includes knowing when a requested result is not safely achievable; it does not mean using a stronger product until a mark disappears.
Choose preparation and cleaning carefully
Dry soil removal can be useful, but delicate rugs require handling appropriate to their strength. The cleaning method, degree of agitation and moisture management must suit the individual construction. We do not apply one standard machine wash to every Oriental or silk enquiry.
The rug may have colour variation, wear or pile direction changes that remain visible after cleaning. Cleaning can remove soil but cannot recreate missing fibres or guarantee that an old stain will disappear without risk.
Avoid experiments with valuable pieces
Do not cut a fibre, perform a burn test or apply solvents at home to identify the rug. These attempts can cause damage and may still give a misleading answer. Keep the label and purchase information instead.
For a spill, use a clean absorbent cloth to blot gently and ask for material-specific advice. Avoid rubbing, soaking and heat. Tell us what was spilled and what you have already applied so the next decision is informed.
Book an assessment with clear expectations
Give the rug’s dimensions, postcode, known history and the reason you want it cleaned. Mention financial or sentimental importance and any deadline. We will discuss whether the enquiry is suitable for our workshop and confirm practical arrangements.
We do not provide a value appraisal or promise restoration of structural damage through cleaning. If a rug needs specialist repair or another service, that is a separate question from whether its soil can be safely removed.
Your questions, answered.
Is a Persian-style rug always wool?
No. Appearance and style do not establish the material. A label and inspection are more reliable starting points.
Can you guarantee colours will not move?
No responsible assessment removes every uncertainty. We test and consider the condition, then explain identified risks and suitable options.
Can cleaning repair worn areas?
Cleaning removes appropriate soil; it does not replace missing pile or repair a weakened foundation.
Plan your rug clean
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