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Colour Bleeding in Handwoven Rugs

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  It’s more than a nuisance. Colour bleeding can ruin years of craftsmanship and significantly reduce the value of your cherished piece. If you’re a fan of traditional textiles, understanding how and why this happens is crucial. Let’s break it down and help you keep your rug looking gorgeous. Non Colourfast Dyes Factor  Many handwoven rugs, especially those crafted using traditional techniques, rely on natural dyes. These dyes aren’t always fixed properly, making them vulnerable to moisture. Reds and blues are often the most problematic. You might love the richness of a crimson border or a deep indigo centre—but those same tones are the most likely to bleed. Think of it like wearing new jeans on a rainy day. You didn’t realise the dye wasn’t set until your legs turned blue. The same principle applies here. So, if your rug hasn’t been pre-treated or you’re unsure of its dye stability, treat it with care. One spill could send colours seeping into each other. Excess Dye Can Backf...

How to Spot Early Signs of Rug Fibre Damage

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  Rugs aren’t just pretty floor coverings. They’re part of your home’s story. They add colour, texture, and comfort. They hold memories. Like that heart-to-heart chat with a friend where some tea was accidentally spilled. Or those tiny muddy footprints after a rainy school run that were caught by the rug. So, when the fibres start to show wear, it matters. Small changes can turn into big issues. Knowing what to look for early can save you time, money, and stress. It also means you can delay replacement and enjoy your rug for longer. What should you watch out for? Frayed Edges Are Your First Red Flag Edges do a lot of work. They hold everything together. But when you start noticing the ends unravelling or threads sticking out, it’s a sign your rug is under pressure. Maybe there’s too much foot traffic. Or perhaps you’ve been using a vacuum with spinning brush rolls. Pets love playing tug-of-war with corners, too. Ignore this, and your rug could unravel fast. Try trimming loose threa...

The Wrong Way to Clean a Persian Rug and What to Do Instead

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  Persian rugs are handwoven works of art that carry stories, culture, and skill. Each knot is a symbol of heritage. So when you clean one, you're not just removing dirt—you're maintaining a legacy. But many well-meaning cleaning attempts go wrong. Very wrong. And the damage is often irreversible. Let’s go over the most common mistakes people make and what you should do instead.  Common Mistakes in Cleaning Persian Rugs Using Harsh Chemicals Strong cleaners can ruin your rug. Bleach, ammonia, and even some supermarket detergents can strip away natural dyes. These dyes—often derived from vegetables, insects, or minerals—aren’t made to withstand aggressive chemicals. Once those colours fade, they rarely come back. You might also weaken the fibres and cause the rug to shed or break down over time. Always choose a mild, pH-neutral cleaning solution. Better still, keep a cleaner specifically labelled for delicate fibres in your cupboard. Think of it this way: if it would damage you...

Why Area Rugs Get Dirtier Than You Think

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  Area rugs on hardwood floors are a smart choice. They warm up the room. Add a pop of style. Feel soft underfoot. And they protect your flooring from wear. But there’s a messy truth hiding beneath that cosy surface: Your area rug could be dirtier than your doormat. Even if your home looks spotless, rugs collect dirt, dust, and allergens faster than you’d expect. And when that grime hides between fibres or under the rug, you might not even notice it. The Hidden Dirt Beneath Your Rugs Dust and Allergens  Area rugs are like giant filters. They trap pet dander, pollen, hair, crumbs, and dust. Every step on the rug stirs up these tiny particles. That puff of dust you see when you slap a cushion? The same thing happens under your feet. Rugs and carpets can trap allergens that trigger asthma and allergic reactions. And unlike smooth floors, rugs hold onto these particles. Even with regular vacuuming, dirt builds up over time. If you have allergies, dirty rugs might be making you mis...