Expert: Jahann and Sons Persian Rugs - 6/8/2009

Question
Hello,

My children evidently dropped some food or spilled something on the persian rug that we did not catch as it was behind a sofa. Well, now there is a black mold over an area about the size of your hand. My wife wants to clean it with woolite, I am thinking that moisture is not a good idea. We are in the 619 area code, San Diego. Can you advise us? It is a real Persian carpet, silk and wool, I believe.

Thanks,

Bill

Answer
Hi William,

Thank you for your question.  I would definitely clean the area where the mold has grown.  Woolite is a mild enough soap.  What you need to be very careful of when cleaning an Oriental rug is the amount of water you use (and make sure it is cold water only).  Use a minimal amount and have plenty of white towels on hand to blot up as you go.  This will prevent any color running.  

If it has been a while since your rug as last cleaned, you may want to consider having the rug professionally done.  A silk and wool Persian rug would be well worth the expense.  I don't know anyone in your area, but a quick call to a department store with a rug department should be able to get you a referral to a good place.

Please don't hesitate to ask if you have any further questions.

Best of luck!
Katie

Jahann and Sons Persian Rugs
4210 Howard Avenue
Kensington, MD 20895
301-530-6660