Rug Cleaning Tips
Sydney's Rug Cleaning Myths: Debunked by Our Experts
At Oriental Rug Care, our rug cleaning Sydney experts have cleaned and restored thousands of rugs for Sydney homes and businesses since 2009.
We have seen firsthand how common misconceptions about rug care can lead to damage.
As Sydney’s only IICRC-certified and Woolsafe-approved rug cleaning specialists, we aim to dispel these myths and help you protect your valuable rugs.
What Our Certifications Mean for You
IICRC Certification
The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is the global gold standard for the cleaning and restoration industry. Our technicians are trained to the highest IICRC standards, which means we understand the science of rug cleaning—from identifying different fibres and dyes to using the safest, most effective cleaning methods.
Woolsafe Approval
The Woolsafe Organisation rigorously tests cleaning products and services to ensure they are safe for wool and other delicate fibres. Our Woolsafe approval means we only use products that will not cause damage, discolouration, or premature wear to your wool, silk, or Oriental rugs.
8 Common Rug Cleaning Myths—and the Truth
Myth 1: You can identify an Oriental rug just by its design.
The truth: The design is only one part of the story.
Experienced professionals know that a rug's value and durability are determined by its construction, fibre type, knot style, and dyes.
Before cleaning any rug, we always inspect the back to confirm whether it’s hand-knotted, flat-woven, tufted, or machine-made. This is the only way to select the safest and most effective cleaning method.
Myth 2: All Oriental rugs are valuable and appreciate over time.
The truth: Most modern, mass-produced rugs will not increase in value.
A rug's age alone doesn't make it a valuable antique. True value comes from quality, condition, and artistic merit.
While we regularly restore antique rugs from places like Persia and Turkey, which often hold or increase their value, we also encounter many older rugs that are simply worn out.
Myth 3: Never vacuum an Oriental rug.
The truth: Correctly vacuuming your rug is crucial to its longevity.
Up to 80% of the soil in a rug is dry, sandy grit that can cut and abrade the fibres from the inside out.
We advise clients to gently vacuum parallel to the ends of the rug (always avoiding the fringe) at least once a week to remove this damaging grit.
Myth 4: Persian rugs are always superior to others.
The truth: While some antique Persian rugs, like those from Tabriz or Heriz, are renowned for their quality, rugs from other countries can be just as durable and beautiful.
Rugs from Turkey, India, Pakistan, and Central Asia are all known for their unique designs and high-quality craftsmanship.
Since the 1980s, the quality of some Persian rugs has declined, so every rug needs an individual assessment.
Myth 5: The knot count is the most important factor in a rug's value.
The truth: While a high knot count can indicate fine detail in some silk or high-end Persian rugs, it is not the only factor.
For most rugs, factors like the materials used, the quality of the dyes, and the overall craftsmanship are far more important in determining a rug's long-term durability and value.
Myth 6: Oriental rugs should never be wet cleaned.
The truth: A proper, controlled wet cleaning is actually the most effective way to remove deep-seated dirt, allergens, and stains from a rug.
The danger comes from improper cleaning methods.
Our purpose-built Marrickville facility uses a gentle, 12-step full-submersion process. This allows us to thoroughly clean the rug from top to bottom while controlling for temperature, pH levels, and drying conditions.
Myth 7: Rug pads are a waste of money.
The truth: A quality rug pad is a critical investment.
It protects both the rug and your floors. A good pad prevents slipping, reduces wear and tear, and provides extra cushioning underfoot.
We recommend high-quality felt and rubber pads to our Sydney clients, especially for those with hardwood floors.
Myth 8: Silk rugs are ideal for busy living areas.
The truth: While silk rugs are stunning and soft, they are not practical for high-traffic areas.
The delicate nature of silk fibres means they show wear and tear quickly and are more difficult to clean if heavily soiled.
We recommend using silk rugs as decorative pieces or wall hangings, and opting for durable wool or wool-blend rugs in high-traffic areas.
Get Personalised, Expert Advice
Misguided care can significantly shorten the life of a valuable rug. Our team has the training and hands-on experience to care for all types of rugs, from antique heirlooms to modern designer pieces.
If you are unsure how to care for your rug or need professional cleaning, give us a call today. Our team will provide you with a personalised assessment and a free, no-obligation quote.
Send us a message below for a free rug cleaning quote:
