AboutJahann and Sons Persian Rugs Expertise I can answer any and all questions you have regarding the cleaning, restoration and repair of Oriental rugs. I am more than happy to view your pictures via email and to give you advice on what you can do yourself and what needs to be left to the pros. I can also advise on the cost-effectiveness of repair on your rugs.
Experience My family has had a Persian carpet store in the Washington, DC metro area for nearly 30 years (www.jahannandsons.com).
Question please tell me the best way and what materials to use for storing my wool
persian rugs.
thank you
Answer Hi James,
Thank you for your question. If possible, the best way to "store" a wool rug is to loan it to a rugless friend who will keep the rug open and vacuumed regularly. This generally isn't an option, but if the thought crossed your mind, I'd consider doing it.
When storing your rugs, you want to make sure that they are completely free of stains and moth eggs. If it has been some time since the rug was last professionally cleaned, consider having this done before you store your rugs. If you opt not to do this, then do a bit of spot cleaning with a mild soap and vacuum the rug liberally, front and back (probably several times) until no dust emerges from the rug. Next, take some moth balls or flakes and fold them up in your rug. Finally, wrap your rug in heavy duty plastic and seal completely with tape.
Pick a cool, dry place to store your rugs. Do not sit your rugs directly on a concrete or cement floor, as these types of floors are too moist and can cause dry rot to occur in the rug. Avoid hot areas such as attics, as moths like to breed in a warm climate. If storing your rug in a public storage area, make sure that the units are climate controlled.
Most importantly, every 3-4 months, go back, unwrap your rug, vacuum it, and replenish the moth balls. Moth balls have a tendency to evaporate over time, so at some point, your rug will be defenseless against moths. Don't forget about your rug, and you should be fine.
I hope the information is helpful! Please let me know if you have additional questions.
Best,
Katie
Jahann and Sons Persian Rugs
4210 Howard Avenue
Kensington, MD 20895
301-530-6660
ruglady@jahannandsons.com