Expert: Jahann and Sons Persian Rugs - 10/4/2007

Question
There are no fine rug cleaners in our area.  We do have a company called Chem Dry.  Not sure about that process. Would it be allright to clean a 9x12 Karastan wool rug with a Hoover steam cleaner.  Maybe using just a mild cleaner.  Would you recommend a cleaner or what to use.  The steam cleaner does extracts most of the water.  The fringe also concerns me, how could I clean that too.

Answer
Hi Cynthia,
Thank you for your question.  You are right to clean the rug yourself.  You'll do a better job than any type of dry cleaner.  Try and use the steam cleaner on the cold setting.  Use a mild soap (Ivory soap will work), or a shampoo made especially for Oriental carpets.  When you clean the rug, make sure you don't use too much water.  Also, do the cleaning outside so that you don't ruin your floors.  Anywho, do the shampooing and extracting and leave the rug out in the sunshine to let it dry.  For the fringe, use a small brush and some soap and water and clean that part by hand. That should do the trick!  Let me know if you have any questions, or if you run into trouble, give us a call: 301-962-8181.
Best, Katie