How To Clean a Persian Rug Without Ruining It
Persian rugs are beautiful, valuable, and often irreplaceable. But when it comes to cleaning them, most people make mistakes that cost them thousands — or worse, destroy the rug’s integrity forever.
At Ahmadi Rug, we’ve cleaned over 20,000 Persian rugs in our 3-generation family business. Here’s what you need to know before attempting to clean one at home — and when to call in a true professional.
Step-by-Step: Safe At-Home Persian Rug Maintenance
1. Vacuum Carefully — Without the Beater Bar
Use only suction. Avoid fringe. Always vacuum in the direction of the pile.
2. Spot Clean With Cold Water + White Vinegar
Dab gently with a clean cloth. Never rub. Test in a hidden corner first.
3. Never Use Steam, Hot Water, or Store-Bought Cleaners
These destroy natural dyes, shrink wool, and can permanently damage hand-knotted rugs.
4. Dry Flat, Away from Sunlight
Hang-drying or sunlight will warp shape and fade colors. Always dry flat.
5. Flip + Dust Routinely
Use a rug paddle or beat the back of the rug outdoors to remove hidden dust.
Mistakes That Ruin Persian Rugs
Using Resolve®, OxiClean®, or soap from Home Depot
Scrubbing in circular motions
Dragging a wet rug
Letting pets urinate multiple times
Trying to “steam clean” a handmade rug
Rolling it up while damp
Why Persian Rugs Require True Expertise
These rugs often feature:
- Natural vegetable dyes (that bleed with the wrong pH)
- Delicate silk warp/weft
- Century-old wool that’s brittle and thirsty
- Weaves that must be dried flat to avoid distortion
Cleaning them properly takes controlled humidity, custom-formulated solutions, and the ability to test for dye run or fiber damage.
You’re Not Alone — And You Don’t Have to Risk It
If your rug has:
- Pet stains
- Food or wine spills
- Color bleed or fading
- Odor or mildew
- Sand and dust trapped deep inside…
…it’s time to call in the pros.
Ahmadi Rug’s Persian Rug Cleaning Service
We offer museum-grade handwashing, free pickup & delivery across Chicago, and over 40 years of experience restoring true Persian masterpieces.
FAQs
Can I clean a Persian rug myself?
You can spot clean lightly, but full cleaning requires professional tools and deep washing techniques to preserve its structure.
What’s the safest home remedy for Persian rugs?
Cold water + white vinegar, lightly dabbed. Never scrub or soak.
Can steam cleaning ruin a Persian rug?
Yes. Steam melts natural lanolin, fades dyes, and breaks down fibers.
