An oriental rug is a gorgeous addition to your home décor. It’s meant to be seen and enjoyed out in the open. But there may be times when you need to store an oriental rug for a lengthy period of time. How do you keep your rug in good condition when it’s tucked away?
Six Steps for Rug Storage
Step #1: Have the rug professionally cleaned and treated with an approved pest repellent or insecticide to deter moths and other insects that eat wool and silk.
Step #2: Select a sturdy cardboard tube longer than the width of the rug you want to store.
Step #3: Identify the bottom of the rug (run your hand over the pile of the rug and find out which way makes the fibers lie down. The fibers will be pointing toward the bottom of the rug.)
Step #4: Starting at the bottom of the rug, wrap the rug gently around the cardboard tube with the pile facing inward. You may choose to roll it with the pile facing outward if the rug is fragile.
Step #5: Wrap the rolled rug in Tyvek or similar material and tape this covering in place. Note: Plastic wrap such as polyethylene may hold moisture against the rug, leading to mildew. Be careful about exposure to high humidity if you use plastic!
Step 6: Store the rug in a safe place. The ideal space for rug storage is clean, relatively dry, with an even temperature, good air circulation, and some natural light.
What Not to Do:
- Don’t fold a rug. This can cause permanent creases and damage the fibers.
- Don’t store a rug flat on a concrete floor. It may sustain moisture damage.
- Don’t store a rug in an attic or basement where temperature and humidity may fluctuate.
- Don’t forget about your rug. Check it once every year or two if it’s going to be stored away for a long time.
Do you have a rug that needs to be stored? Let Ayoub N&H™ Carpet & Rugs clean, pretreat it, and prep it for safe storage. Click here to fill out our easy online contact form.
