When Accidents Happen
Protection Against Common Mishaps

Water Damage:

Water damage is one of the most common and dangerous enemies to the well-being of your Oriental rug. Although accidents with water can result from a variety of different household things, the following methods should consistently be used to correct them.

1. Absorb all excess water with an undyed cotton cloth, sponge, etc. Start by placing a piece of the cloth beneath the rug. Use a second piece of cloth to blot or gently mop the surface of your Oriental rug. Do not scrub the carpet vigorously. Continue until all excess water has been removed.

2. Lightly sponge the area using a small amount of clean water. Do not use any kind of carpet shampoo.

3. Dry the area as soon as possible with warm air. A hair dryer with temperature settings can be used, providing you do not use the highest setting. Completely dry both the front and the back of your rug. The damaged area should feel the same to the touch as the remainder of your rug when the area has been completely dried.

4. Once you have dried your rug, you may notice that the wool fibers in the cleaned area have become matted together. Simply separate the fibers by gently rubbing them with your fingers.

Stain Removal:

Before attempting to remove any stains from your Oriental rug, first test your rugs fastness. Select a brightly colored section of your rug. Using a damp white cloth, gently wipe the area. If any dye color appears on the cloth, you should not attempt to remove the stain at home. In addition, if you own an antique or silk rug, never attempt to remove the stain yourself. Different types of stains require different methods of cleaning. With any Oriental rug, professional assistance is always the safest way to go.

Using the same steps listed above should be sufficient for removal of common stains, however, when working on a stained area, it is recommended that you clean in only one direction. Starting in the middle of the stain can result in further damage. Begin either at the top or the bottom of the stain and continue working in same direction until the task is completed.

Different Stains - Different Methods:

Don't wait: Urine stains from untrained pets are both extremely common and extremely dangerous to your Oriental rugs condition. If left to dry, urine becomes almost impossible to remove. Discoloration is often the end result. The chemicals in urine can affect the rug's fibers, wool and foundation. The sooner you treat the area, the better chance you'll have at saving your rug.

No Chemicals: In the case of stains caused by coffee, tea, soda, juice, milk, ice cream or alcohol, never use soap or carpet shampoo. The chemicals in shampoos and detergents will often aid in setting the stain. Unless you are an expert in carpet care, it is dangerous gamble to ever attempt cleaning with chemicals. More often than not the end result is further damage.

No Heat: Blood, Egg or Gelatin stains should never be treated with hot water. The stains will set and become extremely difficult to remove.

Expert Advice:

When it comes to Oriental rugs, especially if they are antiques, silk or part silk, or damaged in any way, only experienced hands can assure successful stain removal. The slightest error can result in costly, or even irreparable damage. Protect the investment value, beauty and condition of your rug with professional stain removal at Woven Treasures. The money spent is well worth the security that our experts bring.