Oriental Rug Stain Removal & Color Restoration

Spilling something on a cherished silk or wool rug may cause the owner to go into panic mode. Using the appropriate spot solution is imperative to avoid permanent damage to rug fibers. The majority of store-bought remedies do not work. They can set the stain that is supposed to be removed. The sooner a stain is treated, the less likely permanent damage will occur.

Immediate Steps to Take

Urine and food spills should be handled before the spill dries. Blot as much liquid as possible with a clean, white cloth or paper towel. Rinse by dabbing the area affected with a moist white paper towel or cloth.

Do not scrub the silk or wool rug fibers. Too much pile manipulation can cause the stain to spread and damage the fibers in the rug. Most Oriental rugs are made with acid-fast dyes. Adding a little white vinegar to a homemade cleaning solution makes the solution acidic. The acidity reinforces the bond between the fibers and the dye. It prevents colors from running. The solution consists of ¼ cup white vinegar, ½ teaspoon liquid dishwashing soap, and two cups tepid water.

The area should then be sponged with cool, clean water. Use a firm, non-shedding sponge or absorbent towels. A brush will pull fibers from the pile. Do not scrub hard. Sponge the rug in the direction of the nap. Place towels beneath the spot to keep the pad or floor from getting wet. Dry the rug thoroughly. When the nap is dry, check the other side of the rug to be sure it is also completely dry.

Professional Stain Removal

When cared for properly, Oriental rugs will last for generations. A professional should remove spots that the owner does not feel comfortable removing or is not able to remove. A technician can walk the owner through the process or pick up and tend to the stain removal. Oriental rug cleaners are specialists in removing stains.

Rug Discoloration

All Oriental rugs are dyed. Silk and wool rugs are made from yarns and fibers died before they were woven into a rug. They can be successfully re-dyed, provided the dying is done properly. The re-dying process is safe, colorfast, and permanent.

It is critical that the procedure is done by a certified professional to ensure optimal results. Less qualified color restoration entails ‘painting’ a faded rug using a brush. This method is a temporary repair. It can cause damage to a rug.

A master of the craft knows how to precisely blend dyes to achieve an exact color match and uniformity. The color-damaged rug is restored to its original appearance. Severe non-removable stains, like urine stained wool, can affect what colors can be attained. They do not mean the job cannot be done.

Experts are asked if color restoration diminishes the value of a rug. Rugs naturally fade. A rug’s value does not significantly decrease by a properly performed color restoration. It can add sentimental or perceived value because the color uniformity and vibrancy have been restored.

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