ORIENTAL RUGS CLEANING
9 Steps to Washing
Oriental Rugs
STEP 1: INSPECTION
Document preexisting conditions & give realistic expectations. State country of origin and test for fiber content, (some stains will not come out). Test for dye migration, moth damage, previous repairs, rotting of foundation, etc.
STEP 2: AIR-DUST/DEODORIZE (OZONE)
Remove impacted soils, sand, and other particulate matter prior to washing. This is accomplished by a high volume of air passing across and through the rug to force out debris which cannot be vacuumed out. We also charge our air with ozone to freshen rugs and deodorize.
STEP 3: DYE-TEST
Test for dye migration/bleeding. This involves placing an absorbent cloth on top of a small area after it has been treated with neutral detergent solution. The amount of dye that transfers to the cloth gives us an idea of what kind of care the rug requires.
STEP 4: WASH CYCLE
Rugs are first totally immersed in cold, soft water, one rug at a time. After rug fibers have taken in as much water as possible, rugs are mildly agitated with neutral detergent. Rugs are then rinsed with fresh water together with air creating a “Jacuzzi” affect. Both sides of rugs are washed in this way.
STEP 5: RINSING
Rugs are raised from wash pit and finally rinsed to remove excess residues.
STEP 6: HAND BRUSHED & GROOMED
This is done to restore the natural pile lay prior to drying the rug. After the rug has ceased dripping, topical treatments such as MicroSeal & moth proofing can be applied.
STEP 7: DRY
Rugs are hung to dry by heat, air-movement, and dehumidification. Drying may take up to 24 hours to complete.
STEP 8: FRINGLE DETAILING
Once rugs are completely dry, special attention is given to cleaning any fringes. They are then combed and fluffed to restore their brightness and beauty.