Heirloom quality rugs are usually passed down through generations. These rugs are sturdy and long lasting. However, they do require great care and maintenance to ensure that you can still pass them down through generations to come.
In other words, it is possible to increase the lifespan of these rugs and ensure great value by taking efforts to care for them in the right manner. Heirloom quality rugs are very expensive and a lot of investment has gone into its purchase. It is highly recommended to treat it with exactly the amount of respect it deserves.
Here are 7 tips to help you care for heirloom quality rugs and keep them in the household as a valued treasure for generations.
1. It is a good idea to place a cushion or plastic carpet pad under the heirloom rug. This offers enhanced protection from fading as well as minimizes wear and tear.
2. Heirloom quality rugs must be vacuumed from both sides from time to time. Vacuum must be pulled and pushed from all sides, over every area on the rug except the fringes. The rug must be cleaned with enough vacuum force taking care that the machine does not damage it. Adjust the beater to ensure that there is minimal contact with the rug if you must use it for any reason.
3. Accidental spills on the heirloom rugs must be cleaned immediately. If left for a period of time, these spills may cause irreversible stain on the rug. Most of the spills can be cleaned with the help of club soda, a Turkish towel and some kind of blotting.
4. Any repairs required on the heirloom rugs must be taken care of instantly. Appearance of the heirloom rugs is threatened by various factors such as common wear and tear, fading and insects like carpet beetles and moth. It is recommended to take the rug to a reputed carpet cleaner for deep cleaning the moment you see signs of insect infestation or damage. While the rug is being cleaned, it is a good idea spraying your home to completely eliminate any remaining insects.
5. It is also highly recommended to turn over the heirloom rug at least once a year. The rug can be subject to even wear and kept viable for a longer time by exposing both sides to the foot traffic. You can determine when exactly to turn the rug keeping factors such as sunlight exposure and usual wear in mind. For instance, if the rug experiences more exposure and traffic, you must turn it much sooner.
6. As heirloom rugs are very expensive it is important to keep children and pets away from them as much as possible. It is imperative to monitor children’s activities and to house train the pets to ensure that there is no accidental damage.
7. It is necessary to keep the heirloom quality rug dry at all times as wetness and moisture can severely damage it. If it does get wet it is imperative to dry it with a wet vacuum or fan immediately. It is a good idea to minimize any water threat around the heirloom rug. Move plant pots, plumbing pipes and drinks away from the rug.