Expert: Jahann and Sons Persian Rugs - 9/23/2007

Question
Hi!  I have been offered the chance to purchase a large wool persian rug (8.5ft X14ft), and I was wondering how much I should expect to spend having it professionally cleaned.  I have no idea and given how large it is, I'm a little concerned that it could cost hundreds of dollars to have cleaned.  I know prices for cleaning likely vary depending on where you're located (I'm in Boston), but I am only trying to get a rough idea at this point.  Thanks in advance for any help you can provide! Regards, Sophia

Answer
Hi Sophia,
Thank you for your question.  To clean a Persian rug of that size, you are looking at a cost of roughly $250-300.  When looking for a rug cleaner, it is important to find someone who specializes in Oriental Rugs.  A lot of wall-to-wall places and dry cleaners also boast area rug cleaning services, but their cleaning methods are a little bit harsher for the Orientals and usually don't have as good results.  What kind of rug are you looking at buying?  Depending on what it is, the condition, and the price, it is quite possible that even with a $300 cleaning bill you will still come out ahead.  If you have pictures of your potential purchase, I'd be happy to let you know if it is a good deal or not.
Have a nice week,
Katie (ruglady@jahannandsons.com)