Care Guide

Care Guide

How to Care for Your Handmade Carpets: Tips for Longevity and Beauty

Handmade carpets are not just home accessories—they are timeless works of art crafted with skill, tradition, and care. Whether you own a hand-tufted, hand-knotted, or handloom carpet made from wool or silk, proper maintenance is essential to preserve its beauty and durability. This guide will help you care for your handmade carpets and ensure they remain stunning for years to come.

General Care Tips for All Handmade Carpets

Before diving into specific care techniques, here are some universal tips to keep in mind:

  1. Vacuum Regularly: Use a low-suction vacuum to remove dust and debris, avoiding aggressive brushing.
  2. Rotate Periodically: Rotate your carpet every 6–12 months to distribute wear evenly.
  3. Protect from Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can fade colors. Use curtains or blinds to reduce exposure.
  4. Avoid Heavy Furniture: Place furniture pads under legs to prevent crushing the carpet pile.
  5. Clean Spills Immediately: Blot spills gently with a clean cloth; avoid rubbing as it may spread the stain.

Specific Care Based on Carpet Type

1. Hand-Tufted Carpets

Hand-tufted carpets are known for their durability and affordability. However, their fabric or latex backing requires special attention.

  • Vacuuming: Vacuum lightly to avoid dislodging the loops.
  • Cleaning Spills: Use a damp cloth with mild detergent to clean surface stains. Avoid soaking the carpet.
  • Deep Cleaning: Professional cleaning is recommended every 12–18 months to preserve the adhesive backing.
  • Maintenance Tip: Inspect the backing periodically for wear or damage and get repairs done promptly.

2. Hand-Knotted Carpets

Hand-knotted carpets are true masterpieces, often made from high-quality wool or silk. Their intricate knots and natural fibers require gentle care.

  • Vacuuming: Use a brushless vacuum attachment to avoid damaging the knots.
  • Cleaning Spills: Blot the area immediately with a dry cloth. For tough stains, use a solution of water and mild soap.
  • Professional Cleaning: For silk carpets, professional cleaning is essential to maintain the sheen and softness. Wool carpets can be professionally cleaned every 1–2 years.
  • Maintenance Tip: Keep the carpet away from damp areas to prevent mold or mildew growth.

3. Handloom Carpets

Handloom carpets, known for their sleek, modern designs, are often reversible and require minimal care.

  • Vacuuming: Vacuum both sides if reversible, as dust can settle on the underside.
  • Cleaning Spills: Gently blot spills with a dry cloth and air-dry the area.
  • Deep Cleaning: Wash flatweave or low-pile handloom carpets with mild detergent, but always check for colorfastness before cleaning.
  • Maintenance Tip: Shake out dust occasionally in an open area for quick maintenance.

    

Care Based on Material

Wool Carpets

  • Durability: Wool is naturally stain-resistant and resilient.
  • Care Tips:
    • Spot-clean with a mixture of water and white vinegar for tough stains.
    • Avoid using harsh chemicals that can strip natural lanolin oils.
    • Allow the carpet to air-dry thoroughly after cleaning.

Silk Carpets

  • Luxury and Elegance: Silk carpets are delicate and require extra care.
  • Care Tips:
    • Vacuum using a handheld or low-suction vacuum to avoid pulling fibers.
    • Clean stains with a soft cloth dipped in cool water; avoid hot water as it can damage silk.
    • Never use abrasive brushes or harsh detergents on silk carpets.

Stain-Specific Cleaning Tips

  • Wine or Juice: Blot immediately with a white cloth, then clean with a mixture of water and mild detergent.
  • Oil or Grease: Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch over the stain to absorb the oil, then vacuum.
  • Pet Stains: Use an enzymatic cleaner to remove odors and stains effectively.

Storage Tips for Handmade Carpets

If you need to store your handmade carpet, follow these steps:

  1. Clean Thoroughly: Ensure the carpet is clean and dry before storage.
  2. Roll, Don’t Fold: Roll the carpet with the pile side facing inward to prevent creases.
  3. Use a Protective Cover: Wrap the carpet in breathable fabric, like cotton, to protect it from dust and moisture.
  4. Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid damp or humid areas to prevent mold growth.

When to Call Professionals

While regular maintenance can be handled at home, there are times when professional cleaning is necessary:

  • Deep-set stains that don’t respond to home remedies.
  • A buildup of dirt or debris that affects the carpet's texture.
  • Silk carpets showing signs of fading or fiber wear.

                             

Conclusion

Caring for your handmade carpet not only preserves its beauty but also honors the craftsmanship that went into creating it. Whether you own a sturdy wool hand-tufted rug or an elegant silk hand-knotted masterpiece, proper maintenance ensures it remains a cherished part of your space for generations.

Explore our collection of exquisite handmade carpets and find the perfect addition to your home.

Shop Now and keep the art of Indian craftsmanship alive with care and love!

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