Oriental & Area Rug Cleaning and Repair in Woodland Park

January 21, 2025 | Woodland Park, NJ

Jafri Rug restoration will do the following to preserve the rug: 1. Pre-Cleaning Inspection Examine the Rug: Check for visible signs of damage (holes, tears, fraying) or stains. Look for areas with heavy wear or pet damage. Check Fiber Type: Identify the type of material (wool, silk, synthetic, etc.), as different materials require different cleaning methods. Colorfastness Test: Test a hidden section of the rug for color bleeding. Use a damp cloth to blot the area and check if any dye comes off. If the rug bleeds, it may need special care or professional cleaning. Fringe Condition: Inspect the fringes and edges of the rug for any fraying or damage. If necessary, repair the edges before cleaning. 2. Dry Soil and Debris Removal Vacuuming: Use a vacuum cleaner with a low suction setting (and no beater bar) to gently vacuum the front and back of the rug. This helps remove loose dirt, dust, and debris. Be especially gentle around delicate fringes. Shaking or Beating: If possible, take the rug outside and gently shake or beat it to release more embedded dirt. This step is especially useful for rugs with deep pile. Brushing: Use a soft-bristled brush to gently agitate the fibers, especially in high-traffic areas. This can help loosen dirt and debris stuck deep within the pile. 3. Spot and Stain Treatment Identify Stains: Inspect the rug for stains, spots, or odors. Treat stains immediately before they set. Wool or Synthetic Rug Stains: Use a mild detergent or rug-specific cleaner diluted in water. Apply it to the stained area using a soft cloth or sponge. Gently blot (don’t rub) the stain to lift it. For oil-based stains, a solvent-based cleaner (suitable for the material) can be used. Silk or Delicate Rugs: Use a mild silk-friendly cleaning solution or simply warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the fibers. Dab the stained area with a damp cloth (not soaking wet) and blot gently until the stain lifts. General Rule: Always test the cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage or fade the fibers. 4. Deep Cleaning For Wool, Synthetic, or Mixed-Fiber Rugs: Prepare Cleaning Solution: Mix lukewarm water with a mild detergent or wool-safe shampoo (for wool rugs). Never use hot water as it can shrink wool. Clean the Rug: Using a soft-bristled brush or sponge, gently scrub the rug in sections, working along the direction of the pile. This ensures that you don’t damage the fibers. Rinsing: After cleaning each section, use a clean damp cloth to wipe away excess soap or detergent, ensuring no residue remains in the rug. Avoid Soaking: Do not soak the rug in water, as excessive moisture can lead to mold or damage to the rug's structure, especially for wool and silk rugs. For Silk Rugs: Professional Cleaning Recommended: Silk rugs are delicate and may not handle water well. Professional dry cleaning or specialized rug cleaning methods are often recommended. If cleaning at home, use minimal water and a silk-safe cleaner. Always test on a hidden area first. Dry cleaning powder can be used as an alternative to water-based cleaning for delicate rugs. 5. Drying the Rug Air Drying: Never use direct heat (like a heater or blow dryer) to dry the rug, as this can cause shrinking or damage. Lay the rug flat in a well-ventilated area, preferably out of direct sunlight. Flip the Rug: Once the front side is dry, flip the rug over to allow the back to dry as well. This will help prevent mold or mildew from forming. Absorb Excess Moisture: If you’ve used a lot of water during the cleaning process, gently blot the rug with a towel to remove excess moisture before it dries completely. 6. Post-Cleaning Grooming Brushing the Pile: After the rug is dry, gently brush the pile with a soft rug brush (or a pet brush) to restore the fibers and fluff up any flattened areas. Always brush in the direction of the pile. Restoring the Silk Shine: If the rug has silk fibers, gently hand-comb the silk pile with a soft brush to restore its natural sheen and smoothness. Edge and Fringe Care: If the rug has fringes, carefully trim any loose or frayed threads, and check for signs of damage. If necessary, repair the fringes before final placement. 7. Final Inspection Check for Streaks or Residue: After the rug has dried and been brushed, inspect the surface for any soap residue or areas that may require additional spot cleaning. Examine the Edges: Ensure that the edges are intact and the fringes are not tangled or damaged. Check for Mold/Mildew: If there’s any lingering dampness, let the rug dry further in a well-ventilated area.