After purchasing a handwoven Persian carpet, the next challenge for most families is how to properly care for it. Some believe frequent vacuuming and washing is the best way to preserve a rug. Others stress avoiding sunlight at all costs. With so many opinions—some of them contradictory—it’s easy to feel confused about the right care practices.

To help clarify things, we’ve compiled seven practical and reliable carpet maintenance tips that will help extend the life, beauty, and quality of your handwoven rug.

1. Rotate the Carpet Periodically

To ensure even wear and tear, rotate your carpet a few times a year. This helps prevent one section from bearing the brunt of foot traffic or being hidden under furniture indefinitely. It also distributes sunlight exposure more evenly, helping preserve the vibrancy of the colors.

2. Protect Against Direct Sunlight

Long-term exposure to direct sunlight can cause carpet dyes to fade. Try to avoid placing your rug in areas with strong, constant sunlight. Use curtains or blinds during peak hours and rotate the carpet occasionally. If needed, rearranging your layout slightly every few months can go a long way.

3. Avoid Taping the Fringes

Fringe maintenance is a common topic of debate. Some people tape the fringes with clear adhesive to keep them tidy or prevent damage. This is not recommended. Taping restricts airflow, traps moisture, and leads to chemical degradation, which can accelerate fringe rot and reduce the rug’s overall value.

4. Limit Frequent Washing

Don’t over-wash your carpet. Once every 5 years is usually sufficient for a deep clean—unless the rug suffers major stains. Harsh detergents, even at professional cleaners, can weaken natural fibers over time. Always choose licensed, reputable carpet cleaning services when needed.

5. No Shoes Indoors

Walking on your rug with shoes not only soils it faster but also damages the delicate pile. Grit and pressure wear down fibers, forcing you to clean the rug more frequently. Encourage a no-shoes policy at home to help preserve your carpet’s integrity.

6. Vacuum Gently and Wisely

Vacuuming itself is not harmful—but excessive force is. Avoid using maximum suction or beater brushes on handwoven rugs, especially those with silk or fine wool. Light vacuuming once or twice a week is enough. Be cautious around the fringes to prevent tangling or tearing.

7. Use a Carpet Pad

Placing a rug pad underneath your carpet helps reduce strain on the foundation threads. It minimizes slippage, cushions footfall, and absorbs impact. Pads also help reduce friction with the floor, which increases the longevity of the weave. Make sure to use a pad that matches the size of your carpet.

Final Tip

A little attention goes a long way when it comes to maintaining handwoven carpets. By following the simple practices above, you can keep your rug looking beautiful and structurally sound for decades—maybe even generations.

Do you have any personal tips or experiences with carpet care?
Share your thoughts in the comments below and help others protect their woven treasures.