A Question from a NYC Rug Owner: How Often Should An Oriental Rug Be Cleaned?

 

 

There is no one answer to the question of how often an Oriental or Persian rug should be cleaned.  The general consensus among professionals is that professional rug cleaning every two to three years is a good goal.  However, there are many factors that can necessitate more frequent professional cleaning.  Some of these factors include whether outside shoes are worn in the home, whether there are pets (and accompanying pet accidents), whether there are children (and accompanying children's accidents), whether there are frequent spills or food accidents, among others.  Similarly, there are many factors that can help you wait longer in between professional rug cleanings.  Some of these factors include a no-shoe policy at home, no pet accidents, a regular vacuuming routine, among others.  Indeed, it is not unusual to wait even ten years in between professional cleanings, especially when rugs are not in high traffic areas.

A regular cleaning routine between professional cleanings is advisable and will go a long way to preserving your rug.  Vacuuming once a week or at least biweekly is important, but take care not to damage fringes in the process. If possible, flipping the rug around and vacuuming the underside once a year is helpful as well.  Going the traditional route of taking a rug outside and beating it will also dislodge years of dust.  ---www.traditionalrugrepair.com