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Care & Refinishing Services

Handmade wool Oriental carpets are beautiful and durable pieces of art that can enhance any home. However, they also require special care and attention to preserve their quality and appearance. Here are some tips on how to care for an oriental carpet:

Do not hesitate to contact us at any time for help. We will be more than glad to guide you.

Padding:

You may wonder if you need a pad under your oriental rug. The answer is yes, for several reasons. A good quality non-skid bounce pad can protect your rug from wear and tear, increase its comfort, prevent slips and falls, and keep your floors protected.

A pad can protect your rug from wear and tear by reducing the friction between the knots of the rug and the floor. This can help preserve the quality and structure of your rug for a longer time. Some types of padding can increase the life of your rug by as much as 40%.

A pad can also increase its comfort by adding a layer of cushioning that makes it softer to walk on. Some oriental rugs are thin and hard, so a pad can make them more pleasant to use.

A pad can prevent slips and falls by keeping your rug in place on the floor. This can avoid accidents and injuries caused by sliding rugs. A pad can also reduce the noise that travels through your rug when you walk on it.

Finally, a pad can keep your floors protected by preventing scratches and damage caused by the back of your rug or any debris that may get trapped under it. A pad can also prevent color transfer from your rug to your floor.

As you can see, using a pad under your oriental rug has many benefits that make it worth investing in. You should choose a good quality pad that matches the size and shape of your rug for optimal results.

Vacuum:

Oriental carpets are delicate and valuable items that require proper care and maintenance. Vacuuming is one of the most important steps to keep them clean and prevent dust and dirt from accumulating in the fibers. However, not all vacuums are suitable for oriental carpets, and some may even damage them. Here are some tips on how to vacuum an oriental carpet safely and effectively:

- Use a light canister vacuum with good suction and no beater bars. Beater bars can cause the pile to become blurry or frayed and may also pull out the fringes of the carpet.

- Vacuum your carpet side-to-side, not end-to-end. This will lift the pile and prevent dirt from getting deeper into the weave. Avoid vacuuming over the fringes, as they can break easily.

- Vacuum your carpet regularly, at least once a week if it gets a lot of foot traffic. Don't wait until the carpet looks dirty, as this means that dust and grime have already settled into the fibers.

- Vacuum both sides of your carpet every couple of weeks or so. This will help loosen any sand or dirt that has embedded itself near the foundation of the carpet, which can cause wear and tear over time.

- Sprinkle some baking soda over your carpet before vacuuming to freshen it up and remove odors. Don't rub it in, just let it sit for a few minutes and then vacuum it up without using beater bars.

Following these tips will help you keep your oriental carpet clean and beautiful for years to come. However, vacuuming alone is not enough to remove all the stains and contaminants that may affect your carpet. You should also have your carpet professionally cleaned by experienced cleaners every two to three years or as needed. They will use specialized tools and methods to give your carpet a thorough cleaning without damaging it.

Rug Washing:

Oriental rugs are valuable pieces of art that require special care and attention to preserve their beauty and durability. Professional cleaning of Oriental rugs involves a series of steps that remove dirt, stains, odors and allergens from the rug fibers without causing damage or color fading. Some of these steps are :

- Vacuuming or brushing the rug on both sides to loosen and remove dry soil and debris.

- Washing the rug with cold water and a gentle, neutral pH liquid cleaner that is suitable for woolen fabrics or carpets.

- Rinsing the rug thoroughly to remove any soap residue and excess water.

- Drying the rug in a climate-controlled environment or under indirect sunlight to prevent mold, mildew and shrinkage.

- Setting the pile in one direction and grooming the fringes to restore the original appearance of the rug.

Professional cleaning of Oriental rugs should be done at least once every two years or more frequently depending on the level of use and traffic.

Spills and Stains:

Oriental carpets are beautiful and durable, but they can also be prone to stains from spills, pets, or other sources. To keep your oriental carpet looking its best, you should act quickly and use the proper cleaning methods. Depending on the type of stain and the material of your carpet, you may need different solutions and techniques. Here are some general tips for how to clean stains on oriental carpets:

- Always check the label of your carpet for any specific instructions or warnings. Some carpets may be dry clean only or not colorfast, which means they can bleed when wet. If you are unsure about your carpet's material or condition, it is best to consult a professional cleaner before attempting any treatment.

- Blot up as much of the spill as possible with a dry towel or paper towel. Do not rub or scrub the stain, as this can push it deeper into the fibers and damage them. Work from the outside of the stain towards the center to avoid spreading it further.

- Use a mild detergent solution to treat most stains. Mix one tablespoon of mild detergent with one-third cup of white vinegar and two-thirds cup of water. Apply this solution to the stained area with a clean cloth or sponge and blot gently until no more color transfers to the cloth. Rinse well with cold water and blot dry with another towel.

- For silk carpets, use a gentler solution of warm water and white vinegar only. Do not use detergent or baking soda on silk carpets, as these can harm the delicate fabric. Apply this solution sparingly and blot carefully until the stain is removed. Rinse well with cold water and let it air dry away from direct sunlight.

Remember that some stains may be too stubborn or old to remove completely by yourself. If you are not satisfied with your results or if your carpet has severe damage from water, moths, rot, or color running, you should seek professional help from a reputable rug cleaning service.

Pet Stains:

Pet stains can ruin the beauty and value of your oriental rugs if not treated properly. Here are some steps you can take to remove pet stains from your oriental rugs:

- Blot the stain immediately with paper towels or a white cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible.

- Mix 4 tablespoons of white vinegar, ½ teaspoon of liquid dish detergent, and 2 cups of room temperature water in a bucket.

- Pour a small amount of the solution on the stain and dab it gently with a clean cloth. Do not rub or scrub as this can damage the fibers and spread the stain.

- Repeat until the stain is gone or no more color transfers to the cloth.

- Rinse the area with clean water and blot it dry with another cloth or paper towels.

- Place a fan over the wet spot to speed up drying and prevent mold growth.

- Vacuum the rug once it is completely dry to restore its texture.

If these steps do not work or if you are dealing with an old or stubborn stain, you may need to contact a professional oriental rug cleaner who can use special solutions and techniques to remove pet stains without harming your rug.

Storage:

Oriental carpets are valuable and beautiful items that require proper care and storage to preserve their condition and appearance. If you need to store your oriental carpets for a long time, here are some steps you can follow:

- Clean your carpets thoroughly before storing them. You can hire a professional carpet cleaning service or do it yourself using a vacuum cleaner and a mild detergent. Cleaning your carpets will remove any dirt, dust, stains, or odors that can attract pests or cause damage over time.

- Use a pest repellent to protect your carpets from moths, mice, or other insects that can chew or tear the fibers of your carpets. You can use mothballs, cedar blocks, lavender sachets, or other natural repellents.

- Roll your carpets tightly and evenly with the pile facing inward. Rolling your carpets will prevent creases or cracks in the foundation of your carpets. Avoid folding your carpets as this can damage the fibers and cause permanent wrinkles.

- Use a protective covering to wrap your rolled carpets. You can use acid-free paper, cotton sheets, canvas tarps, or plastic wrap. Make sure to seal the seams and edges with tape to keep out moisture and air.

- Store your wrapped carpets in a dry and well-ventilated space. Avoid damp or humid locations such as basements, attics, garages, or sheds that can cause mold or mildew growth on your carpets. Use a dehumidifier or an air conditioner to regulate the temperature and humidity levels in the storage area.

- Check on your stored carpets periodically to make sure they are in good condition. Unwrap them carefully and inspect them for any signs of damage or infestation. Air them out for a few hours before rewrapping them and returning them to storage.

By following these steps, you can safely store your oriental carpets and enjoy them for years to come.

Repairs And Restorations:

Oriental rugs are beautiful and valuable floor coverings that can enhance any room. However, they are also subject to wear and tear, damage from spills, moths, pets, furniture, and other factors. If you have an oriental rug that needs repair or restoration, you may wonder how to go about it. Here are some steps you can take to ensure your rug is properly repaired and restored:

  1. Assess the damage. The first step is to examine your rug carefully and identify the type and extent of the damage. Some common problems include frayed edges or corners, holes or tears, faded colors, stains or odors, loose threads or knots, missing fringe, etc. You should also check the back of the rug for any signs of deterioration or infestation.
  2. Find a reputable rug repair professional. While some minor repairs can be done at home with basic tools and supplies, most oriental rugs require expert attention from a skilled craftsman who can match the original materials, colors, and weaving techniques of your rug. You should look for a rug repair professional who has experience with oriental rugs of your type and origin, who can provide you with a detailed estimate and explanation of the repair process, and who can guarantee their workmanship.
  3. Choose the appropriate repair method. Depending on the nature and severity of the damage, there are different methods of repairing an oriental rug. For example:

- Repairing the sides: The sides of an oriental rug are usually bound with wool or cotton threads that protect the edges from unraveling. If these threads become loose or worn out over time, they can be re-wrapped with new threads that match the original color and thickness.

- Repairing the ends: The ends of an oriental rug are usually finished with a fringe that extends from the warp threads (the vertical threads that run along the length of the rug). If these threads become detached or damaged over time, they can be re-knotted or re-woven with new threads that match the original length and thickness.

- Repairing a hole: A hole in an oriental rug can be caused by various factors such as moths, burns, cuts, etc. To repair a hole in an oriental rug, a patch of similar fabric is sewn onto the back of the hole using invisible stitches. Then new knots are woven into the patch using wool yarns that match the original color and pattern of the rug.

  1. Before repairing your oriental rug, you may want to have it cleaned by a professional as well.
  2. Once your oriental rug is repaired and restored, You should also take good care of your oriental rug by placing it away from direct sunlight, moisture, or heat sources; rotating it regularly to prevent uneven wear; and taking it to a professional for periodic maintenance every 5 to 10 years. you can enjoy its beauty and value for many years to come.

Blocking: (Resizing)

Blocking of oriental carpets is a process of reshaping a rug that has become wrinkled, warped, or misaligned due to normal use, poor cleaning techniques, pulling, or tearing. It involves brushing the pile by hand, rolling and unrolling the rug tightly, stretching it on a special machine that applies tension to the wrinkles, and ironing it along the grain of the pile. Blocking can also involve applying starch to the back of the rug to help it retain its shape. Blocking can restore the appearance and value of an oriental rug, as well as prevent further damage and safety hazards caused by uneven wear and tripping. Blocking should only be done by professional rug care experts who have the right tools and knowledge to avoid damaging the structure and integrity of the rug.

Appraisals:

There are many reasons why you should have your oriental rug appraised by a professional. One of the most common reasons is for insurance purposes. If you want to protect your valuable rug from theft, fire, flood or other damages, you need to know its accurate replacement value. An appraisal will also help you determine the appropriate coverage and premium for your rug.

Another reason is to learn about its history, origin, age and quality. A professional appraiser can examine your rug and identify its design, materials, craftsmanship and condition. This will help you appreciate the artistic and cultural value of your rug, as well as its potential appreciation over time.

Another would be is to sell it or donate it. If you want to sell your rug, an appraisal will help you set a fair and realistic price based on the current market demand. If you want to donate your rug to a charity or a museum, an appraisal will provide you with a tax-deductible receipt for your generous contribution.

Having your oriental rug appraised by a professional is a wise investment that can save you money, time and hassle in the long run. It can also enhance your enjoyment and pride of ownership of your beautiful rug.

Oriental Rug Refinishing Services

Oriental rug refinishing is not for the faint of heart. While we have been in business for over 40 years, carpet refinishing is still a calculated risk. The knowledge and experience we have acquired over the years allow us to be as diligent as possible with your rugs, but we cannot be held responsible for any damages or unexpected outcomes that may occur. Unforeseen damages that could repaired will be billed separately and upon your approval.

Oriental Rug Refinishing is not an exact science, nor it is nuclear science. It is knowledge acquired after years of experimenting and completely destroying countless carpets.

Each manufacturer in this world uses different products to make their carpets and refinishing them involves dealing with each of those products separately. The unknown factors are controlled with experience.

Wool is wool, but each Quality of wool is different, New Zealand, Ghazni, Angora etc, some manufacturers even use, knowingly or innocently, synthetic fibers.

Dyes are numerous, Chrome, Vegetable, Acid etc., even the brand of dye used within the type could make a difference in the outcome.

The knotting styles, whether Turkish or Persian knots were used, even the original weavers touch, could change the outcome.

Refinishing is a time consuming and labor-intensive process in which corners cannot be cut, and steps cannot be skipped. It takes time, and patience, and lots of both to have the best results.

Based on experience, when provided with a photo of the carpet, we can foresee results with up to 95% accuracy. we can even show you photos, in most cases, of other carpets of the same type that we had previously worked on. This way you can see for yourself what to expect.

Below are some of the services we offer in refinishing Oriental Rugs

Shearing:

Sheering of oriental carpets is a process that involves trimming the pile of the rug to restore its vibrancy, clarity and texture. Sheering can be done by hand or by machine, depending on the type and condition of the rug. Sheering can remove dirt, dust and stains that may have accumulated over time, as well as uneven or worn-out pile that may have dulled the colors and patterns of the rug. Sheering can also enhance the definition and contrast of intricate designs, especially curvilinear ones that require a high knot count. Sheering requires skill and precision to avoid damaging the rug or altering its original appearance. Sheering should be done in a circular motion using only the center of the blade, and any long yarn should be scraped off after sheering. Sheering can make an oriental carpet look more beautiful and valuable, but it should not be done too frequently or excessively as it may reduce the durability and lifespan of the rug.

Color Stripping: (Antique Washing)

Color stripping of oriental rugs is a process of altering the original colors of a rug by using chemicals or bleach. The purpose of this process is to create a more muted or antique look for the rug, or to change its color scheme entirely. Color stripping can be done by professional rug cleaners or dyers, or by DIY enthusiasts at home. However, color stripping is not without risks and challenges. Different dyes used in oriental rugs may react differently to the color-lightening chemicals, and some colors may fade more than others. The result may be uneven or patchy, and the original design may lose its clarity and definition. Moreover, color stripping may damage the wool fibers and reduce the durability and value of the rug. Therefore, color stripping should be done with caution and care, and only on rugs that are not very valuable or sentimental.

Overdying:

Overdying an oriental rug is a process of transforming a faded or outdated rug into a vibrant and unique piece of art. It involves bleaching the original color of the rug, then dyeing it with a new color of choice. Overdying can give a new life to an old or damaged rug or create a modern look for a traditional pattern. However, overdying is not suitable for synthetic rugs or hand-tufted rugs, as they cannot withstand the harsh chemicals and high temperatures involved in the process. Overdying requires special equipment and materials, It also requires careful steps of washing, rinsing, bleaching and dyeing the rug until the desired result is achieved.

For help you can call us at (562) 945 8080

or email us at info@nalbandian.com