Top 5 Rug Cleaning Mistakes (Even Pros Make)
Every week, rugs come into our workshop that were just cleaned — and now need $500+ in damage repair.
The problem? Most people — even “professional cleaners” — don’t actually understand how rugs work.
Whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring someone, here are the 5 most common rug cleaning mistakes to avoid — and how to make sure your rug is cleaned the right way the first time.
Mistake #1: Using Steam or Hot Water Extraction
This method — common in carpet cleaning — is one of the worst things you can do to a handmade or antique rug.
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- It melts natural lanolin in wool
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- Can shrink or buckle rug foundation
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- Fades or bleeds vegetable dyes
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- Often leads to mildew if dried improperly
⚠️ If your cleaner shows up with a truck-mount steam machine… stop everything.
Mistake #2: Over-the-Counter Spot Cleaners
Using over-the-counter spot cleaners can seem like an easy solution, but these products may not be formulated for delicate fibers. They can cause irreversible changes to the rug’s dye and structure. For example, a cleaner with harsh chemicals can lead to discoloration and even permanent stains.
Sprays like Resolve®, OxiClean®, or pet enzyme removers are designed for synthetic carpet — not for century-old wool and silk rugs.
These products:
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- Alter dye chemistry (leading to color fade or bleed)
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- Leave soapy residues that attract more dirt
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- May contain optical brighteners that discolor wool over time
Mistake #3: Scrubbing or Brushing the Pile
Rubbing in a circular motion untwists the wool and breaks the structure of hand-knotted rugs.
Also:
Scrubbing can be tempting when trying to remove stains, but this method can lead to fraying and damage to the rug’s fibers. Instead, a gentle blotting technique is recommended to lift stains without compromising the rug’s integrity.
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- Lifts natural oils out of the fiber
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- Causes early wear patterns
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- Flattens pile permanently
Mistake #4: Letting a Wet Rug Sit Rolled or Folded
We’ve seen $10,000 rugs rotted through because they were left rolled up after water damage.
Even 24 hours of trapped moisture can:
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- Cause black mildew
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- Lock in odor
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- Permanently warp or shrink the rug
Mistake #5: Sending Rugs to Unverified “Cleaning Centers”
When a rug is wet, it’s essential to spread it out flat to dry. Rolling or folding a wet rug traps moisture inside, leading to mold and mildew. This can completely ruin a valuable piece, making it crucial to handle wet rugs carefully.
Many national rug cleaning companies ship your rug off to a warehouse or subcontractor you’ve never met — where the cleaning process is unknown.
Rugs get:
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- Washed in bulk
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- Mixed with pet-soiled pieces
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- Dried improperly
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- Handled by undertrained staff
When it comes to valuable rugs, this is a disaster waiting to happen.
What You Should Expect from a Real Rug Cleaning Expert
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- In-house cleaning (no outsourcing)
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- Dye testing before wash
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- Custom handwashing per rug type
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- pH-balanced solutions
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- Flat drying in climate-controlled rooms
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- Final grooming + fiber conditioning
That’s our standard at Ahmadi Rug.
Choosing a cleaning center should involve research and verification. Unverified centers may lack necessary expertise, leading to inadequate cleaning practices that can damage rugs. Always opt for centers that provide transparent processes and have good reviews.
Real Story: A $25K Persian Masterpiece Ruined
We once received a Tabriz silk rug cleaned by a “national brand.”
It had:
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- Color bleed across the entire border
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- Hardened feel due to soap residue
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- Minor warping from improper drying
We salvaged it — but only after two weeks of reconditioning.
Want It Done Right the First Time?
Your rug is a work of art. Don’t trust it to companies using shortcuts or guesswork.
We clean every rug by hand, in-house
We offer free pickup + delivery
We specialize in Persian, Silk, Antique, and Designer rugs
Understanding rug cleaning mistakes is essential for all rug enthusiasts.
True experts will assess each piece individually, ensuring the correct cleaning methods are applied. This level of care is vital for maintaining the rug’s beauty and value.
Links:
👉 See Our Full Rug Cleaning Process
👉 Professional Rug Cleaning Cost
FAQ Section
Can I clean a rug with vinegar or baking soda?
Only for mild spot cleaning. Never saturate the rug — and never use baking soda on silk or wool.
How do I know if a rug cleaner is safe to hire?
Ask if they use steam. Ask if they outsource. Ask what their drying method is. If they can’t answer clearly — run.
Is it better to clean rugs at home or in a facility?
Always better in a controlled facility. Handwashing, drying, and grooming require tools most homes don’t have.
We want to share more stories of rug care disasters that can help illustrate the importance of professional cleaning. The more you know, the better you can protect your investments.
Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you maintain your beautiful rugs. Your investment deserves the best care available.
Finally, let’s address some frequently asked questions about rug care. Having the right information can make all the difference in how you treat these delicate items.
What’s the best way to maintain my rug’s appearance?
Regular vacuuming and professional cleaning every 1-2 years can keep your rug looking fresh and vibrant.
How can I prevent future stains?
Applying a professional-grade protectant can help repel spills and dirt, providing an extra layer of defense.
Is there a specific cleaning schedule I should follow?
Depending on usage, having a yearly professional cleaning and spot cleaning as needed is ideal for most homes.
By avoiding these rug cleaning mistakes, you can ensure that your rugs remain a cherished part of your home for generations. Always remember the value of investing in proper care.
Be vigilant against the common rug cleaning mistakes that could damage your investment.
Stay informed about rug cleaning mistakes to ensure proper care and maintenance.
Awareness of rug cleaning mistakes can significantly impact the longevity of your rugs.
Ultimately, avoiding rug cleaning mistakes is key to preserving your investment.
