The rich warmth of a traditional handmade rug adds depth and personality to any room. Hooked, needlepoint, latch, knitted, crocheted, woven, painted canvas floorcloths, braided or twisted from torn strips of discarded fabric a handmade rug is a one of a kind treasure. How you care for your handmade rugs will make an extreme difference in its lifespan. Because of varying content and techniques all handmade rugs, such as hook, require extraordinary caution and care to protect your asset as well as the artisan’s endeavors. Today’s rugs are not only utilitarian floor coverings but also an investment opportunity in craftsmanship and artistry.

1. Beater bars on vacuums are a big no-no on shags and on hand-made floor coverings.

2. Even though it is a popular misconception, beating a handmade rug is actually not good for it.

3. Unless the rug is heavily engrained with sands, etc. even shaking it out is not suggested.

4. A simple turning of braided rugs will help them to wear evenly and extricate any dirt lodged in the fibers.

5. If your rug is small enough to fit in a dryer, using the cool air settings only, you can give it a two minute turn to freshen it.

6. A once a year but thorough cleaning is fine for most rugs and floor coverings.

7. Remember: If your rug is worth investing in then so is the cleaning method. While there are home treatments it is best to leave high end carpets to the professionals that have the right tools and the room to allow the rug to dry properly. Be certain the cleaner you choose understands your type of rug and can insure proper cleaning methods.

8. After any cleaning it is wise to re-add any moth preventatives and stains repellents.

9. Remember that any new rug needs a “settling” period. Be diligent to allow it a week or two to flatten to its floor. Pile carpet can be rejuvenated every few days to prevent it from compressing too early.

10. Padding can not only add life to your rug but can prevent slippage. A simple rubberized pad or back can be added.

Tags: Amish Furniture Styles, braided rugs, carpets, crocheted rugs, Hooked rugs, knitted rugs, latch rugs, needlepoint rugs, painted canvas floorcloths, rugs, woven rugs

This entry was posted on Wednesday, February 25th, 2009 at 11:43 pm and is filed under Accessories, DIY Projects, Home Life, Rugs & Carpets. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.