How to Store an Oriental Rug

There are many reasons you may find yourself needing to store an oriental rug. Perhaps you’re moving home or perhaps you simply haven’t found the perfect place for it yet.

No matter your motivation, storing your rug appropriately is incredibly important. The last thing you want is to discover it damaged when you do decide to display it.

As the rug experts, the Rug Source team is more than equipped to advise on the safest Oriental rug storage methods. Follow this advice to keep your rug in perfect condition, wherever you’re currently keeping it!

Clean it before you store it

A clean rug is less appealing to the enemy of all Oriental rugs: moths! A moth infestation can cause serious and permanent damage, so avoiding this should be a paramount concern.

Don’t hand-wash your Oriental rug. Take it to a professional cleaner instead. They know how to deep-clean your rug, excavating any dirt that has become embedded in its foundation.

Ensure it’s completely dry

Another advantage of a professional rug cleaning service is that they understand how important it is to fully dry your rug.

An Oriental rug that looks dry on the surface could still contain moisture at deeper levels. Over time, this becomes mold and mildew!

Avoid insecticide

If you’ve heard guidance to use insecticide on your rug before rolling it up, then avoid that guidance! These chemicals are toxic and will harm your rug over time.

You might think mothballs are a good idea, but your rug is liable to absorb the camphor smell, and this can be a nightmare to remove.

Roll and wrap your rug

When you know your rug is totally dry, roll it up in a tube. There’s special paper that is created to cover a rug in storage. It’s free of chemicals and ink to avoid causing damage over time.

You might think plastic is the best option as it’s more waterproof. However, the condensation this causes is also a breeding ground for mildew. Newspapers would be similarly inappropriate as they’re made from acidic materials.

Seal your Oriental rug

Use plenty of tape to seal your wrapping, paying particular attention to the seams and making sure they’re well covered. This will keep moisture and moths out.

Store it in a suitable place

Look for a stable environment to keep your rug in. It shouldn’t be exposed to extreme temperatures or frequent temperature fluctuations. This is why an attic is a bad spot: it gets too hot in summer.

Placing your rug in an elevated spot is generally recommended. You can keep it away from floor moisture this way.

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And that’s it! Storing an Oriental rug is very straightforward when you know how to do it. By following these rules, you’ll protect your rug from threats like moths and moisture.

If you’re looking for an Oriental rug, remember we have a comprehensive collection to choose from here at Rug Source. We’re also happy to provide expert advice on how to keep yours in tip-top condition!

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