FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - RUG CLEANING

Expert Answers to Your Rug Care Question: 

At Arizona Oriental & Specialty Rug Cleaning, we understand that proper rug maintenance is essential for preserving your investment. Whether you're dealing with stubborn stains, pet-related damage, or simply want to know the best cleaning practices, our team of experts is here to help. Explore our comprehensive FAQs to find answers to the most common rug care questions, backed by our decades of experience in professional rug cleaning and restoration. From understanding the effects of frequent washing to addressing specific fiber concerns, we provide the knowledge you need to keep your rugs looking their best for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rug Cleaning

Q: Do you clean just Oriental area rugs or do you clean synthetic and machine-made rugs? A: We clean all types of loose area rugs, including:

• Machine-made rugs
• Hand-knotted rugs
• Tapestries
• Kilims
• Dhurries
• Specialty fabrics
• Upholstery

Q: Will washing my rug harm it? What if we clean it more often due to higher traffic and pets? A: Proper washing won't harm your rug—in fact, it removes harmful soils from the foundation. Many websites suggest waiting years between cleanings, but this isn't advisable. Just like your socks, rugs accumulate sweat, body oils, and dirt from foot traffic, leading to odors and trapped soils. Regular professional cleaning keeps your rug fresh and extends its lifespan.

Q: Will my rug shrink if it is washed? A: Most rugs won’t shrink, but exceptions exist. Some improperly woven rugs may rebound to their original shape after washing, which can usually be corrected with re-stretching. Shrinkage is rare in our experience.

Q: Can you clean Flokati rugs or sheepskins? A: Absolutely! We specialize in restoring Flokati rugs and sheepskins, making them soft and fluffy again.

Q: What about Jute, Seagrass, or Sisal rugs? A: Yes, we clean these natural fiber rugs, though stain removal success varies. These rugs often have a shorter "appearance life," meaning they may wear well but lose visual appeal over time.

Q: Can you clean my fringes if they are very soiled? A: Yes! Fringes are an important part of your rug, and we take special care to clean them without causing damage. Since most fringes are white, we focus on removing as much soil as possible while preserving their integrity.

Q: I have an old silk rug with metallic threads. Can this be washed? A: Yes, most metallic threads (like gold, silver, or copper) are water-safe. We take extra precautions to protect delicate fibers while restoring the rug’s original brilliance.

Q: What about stains on my rug? Will you remove them? A: Spots can often be removed with the right cleaning agents, but true stains may require special treatment. We’ll discuss risks and costs before proceeding, as stain removal often involves additional time, effort, and specialized products.

Q: If my rug is only dirty on one end, do I need the whole rug cleaned? A: Yes. Just like washing clothes, rugs need to be fully submerged for even cleaning. This ensures consistent results and prevents uneven color changes.

Q: My rug’s dyes bled when the last cleaner cleaned it. Can that be fixed? A: Possibly. Success depends on factors like how long the bleeding occurred, the colors involved, and the rug’s age. We can assess the damage and discuss repair options when you bring it in.

Q: Red wine was spilled on my rug. Can you remove it? A: The sooner we treat it, the better! Avoid using cleaning chemicals, as they can set the stain. Instead, flush with water, blot with a towel, and avoid scrubbing. Carbonated water (like soda water) can also help lift the stain.

Q: Do you use soap or chemicals on rugs? Will there be residue? A: We use wool- and silk-safe products designed for delicate fibers. Our thorough rinsing ensures no residue remains, making our cleaning process safe even for chemically sensitive individuals.

Q: Are you insured? A: Yes, we maintain full insurance coverage at all times.

Q: My rug has a "Dry Clean Only" tag. Can you clean it? A: If wet cleaning isn’t safe, we can use alternative dry methods. However, these won’t be as effective as wet cleaning. Many manufacturers recommend dry cleaning for liability reasons, so consulting a professional is always wise.

Q: My rug has a burnt rubber smell. Can you remove it? A: Unfortunately, this odor usually comes from degrading latex adhesive in tufted rugs. Removing it would require replacing the backing, which is often more costly than buying a new rug.

Please note: Any advice given is for informational purposes only and Arizona Oriental & Specialty Rug Care cannot be held accountable for the effectiveness or outcome of any attempts made by following this information. You should always consult a professional before attempting any cleaning procedures.