How to Hand Wash an Oriental Rug

Last Updated: October 24, 2022 References

Your Oriental rug needs periodic cleaning to remove dust and grime from foot traffic which can cause friction to the pile and premature wear to the rug. You can hand clean your rug by following these steps...

Steps

1
Vacuum the back side of the rug with a beater bar type vacuum cleaner. This loosens dirt and sand that has penetrated the rug’s pile and is trapped near the foundation.^{[1]
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2
Vacuum the surface of the rug thoroughly.

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3
You will need a liquid cleaner specially made for woolen fabrics, such as Woolite, a small bucket, a scrub brush with nylon bristles and warm water. Mix the cleaner with warm water to produce a sudsy combination.^{[2]
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4
Scoop up a brush full of the suds with a small amount of water and begin to scrub the wool pile in the direction from bound edge to bound edge in approximately one foot strokes. Try to wash one square foot at a time.
5
After you have washed each square foot of your carpet, use the suds free scrub brush to comb the pile straight in the direction you would pet a cat. Then go on to the next area to be washed until you complete your rug washing project.^{[3]
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6
Let the rug air dry on a flat, clean surface. You may use a fan on the rug to speed the drying time. This may take at least two days.
7
After the rug is completely dry, vacuum the rug thoroughly in the direction from bound edge to bound edge to remove any soap sediment. You should notice the highlight colors in your rug more vivid and the pile has a lustrous appearance now that the wool is free from grime.^{[4]
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Expert Q&A

Question

Should I spot treat my Oriental rug first?

Sergey Paramonov
Laundry Expert
Sergey Paramonov is a Laundry Expert and the Co-Founder of FreshRobe laundry and dry-cleaning delivery service based in San Francisco, California. Sergey has over 10 years of experience in the industry and specializes in laundry, dry cleaning services, and delivery services. His facilities use energy and water-efficient technology to prioritize a sustainable, professional cleaning service for all types of garments.

Sergey Paramonov

Laundry Expert

Expert Answer

Almost all rugs would benefit from a pre-treatment and spot cleaning before you clean it. Read the care instructions for your rug, then choose a pre-treatment formula that is safe to use on it. Depending on what the label says, you might be able to use Tide, Gain, or OxiClean. When you pre-treat your rug and clean any spots or stains before you wash your rug, you'll set yourself up for success so you can give it a really thorough cleaning.
Question

Can the carpet dry in the sun?

Community Answer

You can dry it flat in the sun. It may take a day or two. It won't fade if it's in the sun for more than a couple of days.

Warnings

Silk rugs should be dry cleaned by an experienced professional.

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Wool weakens when wet and should be handled with care until it has dried.^{[5]
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