Expert: Jahann and Sons Persian Rugs - 10/24/2007

Question
I have a 10-month old baby. Is it okay to use my Ladybug steam cleaner (heat up to 290 degree) to clean my persian rug?

Thanks,

Answer
Hello Amy,
Congratulations on the little one!  In response to your question, NO!  Please do not use a steam cleaner on your rug.  The colors in a Persian rug will run if a steam cleaner is used to clean it.  Only cold water and mild soap should be used to clean your rug.  You can use an extractor during the final process to rinse the rug, should you feel so inclined.  
Since you a have a little one that will be running around all over the carpet, I suggest that you have your rug professionally cleaned.  But, be sure to ask how the rugs will be cleaned.  You're going to want to have your rug shampooed (not dry cleaned or steam cleaned).  Dry cleaning leaves chemicals on the rugs and can sometimes be too harsh for Orientals.  Any service that will clean your Persian carpet in-home, is not doing it properly, as the proper way to clean a rug involves too much water to be done at your home.  I hope the information is helpful.  Please feel free to email me directly should you need any further clarification.
Best, Katie (ruglady@jahannandsons.com)