Handmade carpets are more than décor, they’re woven stories, legacies of craftsmanship, and timeless pieces of art.
Especially when sourced from skilled Afghan artisans, like those featured at Zuleya in Dubai, every carpet embodies dedication, tradition, and authenticity.
Whether hand-tufted or hand-knotted, maintaining these carpets properly ensures they retain their beauty and structure for generations.
In this guide, we share six straightforward but essential carpet maintenance tips that will help you preserve the charm and longevity of your handmade Afghan carpets.
Tip 1: Vacuum Gently, but Consistently
Vacuuming is one of the easiest ways to care for your carpet, yet many people do it incorrectly. Handmade rugs, especially those with intricate knots, require a softer approach.
Using a vacuum cleaner without a beater bar is essential. Beater bars can tug at and damage the fibers, especially in hand-knotted carpets.
Always vacuum in the direction of the weave. This small detail helps prevent the fibers from loosening over time. Make vacuuming a weekly habit.
If your carpet is placed in a busy area of your home, such as the hallway or living room, consider vacuuming more often to prevent dirt buildup. Regular, gentle cleaning like this will help your rug stay vibrant and intact.
Tip 2: Address Spills Immediately (Don’t Rub!)
Accidents happen, especially in homes with kids, pets, or guests.
But when a spill occurs, your reaction time matters. The key is to blot the liquid as quickly as possible using a clean, white cloth or paper towel. Don’t rub. Rubbing only spreads the stain and forces it deeper into the carpet’s base.
Once the majority of the spill is absorbed, you can dab the area gently with a mild detergent mixed with water. Make sure to test this solution on a small, hidden part of the carpet first to ensure it won’t cause discoloration. Always use as little water as necessary and avoid over-wetting the carpet. Too much moisture can seep into the base and lead to mildew, something you definitely want to avoid with handmade rugs.
If your carpet was purchased from a specialized boutique like Zuleya, you may also be able to get advice tailored to your rug’s material. It’s always worth reaching out before experimenting with stronger cleaning agents.
Tip 3: Rotate Carpets Every Few Months
Over time, foot traffic can cause specific parts of your carpet to wear faster than others. This often results in one side looking duller or more faded than the rest. To prevent this, rotate your carpet 180 degrees every few months.
This practice helps distribute the pressure from furniture and footsteps evenly. It also gives the entire carpet an equal chance of being exposed to light and air. Even if your rug is placed in a low-traffic area, regular rotation keeps the wear and tear uniform. This is especially useful for maintaining the integrity and appearance of hand-knotted rugs, which often feature symmetrical designs and color gradients.
Tip 4: Protect from Direct Sunlight
Natural light brings beauty into your home, but over time, it can be damaging to carpets, particularly those dyed with natural colors, like many handmade Afghan carpets. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can xqqq3wqfade vibrant hues, especially in the brighter sections of a design.
If your carpet is near a window, it’s a good idea to use UV-protective curtains or blinds during peak daylight hours. You can also consider shifting your furniture slightly every few weeks to create more even exposure across the surface. If moving furniture isn’t an option, rotating the carpet regularly will serve the same purpose. These small steps go a long way toward preserving the original beauty of your rug.
In sunny regions like Dubai, where intense light is part of daily life, protecting your rug from UV damage is even more important. Being proactive about it will help your investment last.
Tip 5: Use a Rug Pad for Added Protection
A rug pad might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about carpet maintenance, but it can make a significant difference. Placing a quality pad underneath your rug provides extra cushioning, which helps absorb shock and reduces wear on the fibers.
It also prevents the carpet from slipping or curling at the edges, especially if placed on hard surfaces like tile or wood. That added stability means less friction against the floor, which in turn protects the backing of the carpet. For delicate pieces like hand-tufted rugs, this is especially valuable.
Rug pads also allow a small amount of air to circulate beneath the carpet, reducing the chances of moisture accumulation and mildew formation. It’s a small investment that offers big benefits.
Tip 6: Schedule Periodic Professional Cleaning
While regular at-home care is essential, nothing replaces the deep clean that comes from professional treatment. Over time, dust, pollen, and other allergens can settle deep within the fibers, where a regular vacuum can’t reach. That’s where expert cleaning becomes important.
However, not all cleaning services are created equal, especially when it comes to handmade carpets. You should always choose a provider who understands the intricacies of natural fibers and artisanal dyes. Some services use harsh chemicals or aggressive machines that can permanently damage a delicate rug.
This is why it’s reassuring to know that Zuleya offers exclusive cleaning services for carpets purchased directly from them. Their team is trained to handle their own hand-knotted and hand-tufted rugs with the care they deserve. Knowing that your carpet can be serviced by the people who understand it best adds another layer of peace of mind.
Professional cleaning is generally recommended every 12 to 18 months. If your carpet is in a high-traffic area or exposed to dust and humidity, it may need more frequent attention.
Conclusion
Handmade carpets deserve thoughtful care to preserve their artistry and longevity. With a few simple habits, you can ensure your rug remains a cherished feature of your home for years. If your piece comes from Zuleya, you’ll also benefit from their exclusive after-sales cleaning service, tailored specifically for their handmade carpets. To discover more about their collection or inquire about care support, you can reach Zuleya at 800-ZULEYA or by email at info@zuleya.ae.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How often should I vacuum my handmade carpet?
Vacuum once a week under normal conditions. Increase to twice weekly in high-traffic areas. Always vacuum gently, especially on handmade rugs.
2. What’s the best way to clean a spill?
Blot immediately with a dry cloth. Use mild soap and water, and avoid rubbing. Always test cleaning solutions on a small hidden area first.
3. Can I use store-bought carpet cleaners on my handmade rug?
It’s not recommended. Many store-bought products contain harsh chemicals that can harm natural fibers and dyes. Opt for pH-neutral, fiber-safe cleaners.
4. Why is rotating the carpet important?
Rotating helps even out wear and exposure, especially from foot traffic and sunlight. It also ensures the carpet’s fibers don’t become crushed in one area over time.
5. Does Zuleya offer cleaning services?
Yes, Zuleya offers exclusive cleaning services for its own handmade carpets as part of its after-sales support. This ensures proper care by specialists familiar with the unique qualities of their rugs.
