Repairing your Oriental or Persian Rug

Protect your investment for future generations.

When needing minor oriental rug repair, there are a number of tips you can employ at home. Here we’ll cover a few tips for repairing your Oriental or Persian rug. If your rug has suffered significant damage or if you have questions on where to begin, you may want to consult an industry professional for help.

Damaged Rug Fringe

The decorative fringe on the edge of your Oriental can unravel or become detached from the body of the rug due to everyday wear and tear. The good news is that your damaged fringe can simply be replaced with new threads. If you own a handmade, hand-knotted or very valuable rug, we recommended having the fringe repaired by a professional. If you own a machine-made rug and have some basic sewing skills (or have a trusted friend with said skills), you can replace the damaged fringe at home for the small cost of a just a few yards of replacement fringe from a fabric store such as Hancock Fabrics.

Attack of the Moths

Over time and seemingly without notice, moths and other bugs can work their way into your home and chew on the fibers of your rug. These insects lay eggs in the fibers of your rug, and the hatched larvae then eat the fibers to sustain themselves while they’re growing. (We know it’s not pretty. Heed our words of warning!) The best way to deal with moth damage is through preventative maintenance so this doesn’t happen to you in the first place. The best way to prevent moth carpet damage is to vacuum regularly (at least once a week.) Use your vacuum’s attachment on corners, fringes or rugs with deep pile.

Additionally, look for specially designed insecticides that are safe for humans and animals that can be sprayed in your home to prevent moths from finding their way in. Before spraying around the area of your rug, test it first in an inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t change the appearance of the fibers/colors of the piece, damage flooring or cause other issues you hadn’t bargained for.

Of course, if the moth damage has already been done, it’s time to consult a repair professional.

Rug Water Damage

Common water damage issues include unsightly stains, warping, loss of fiber integrity, or color bleeding. Your handmade piece may have water damage without you even realizing it! The musty smell (generally regarded as “old” or even better, “antique”) in these pieces may actually be a sign of mold or mildew damage. Something as simple as setting a potted plant or the kitty water bowl on a carpet for a period of time can lead to mold growth in the fibers of your rug. If your rug is relatively small and can be transported easily, place it outside on a flat surface on a sunny day when humidity is low and allow it to dry thoroughly while you clean the surface underneath the rug. In many advanced cases, you will need to attack these mold spores with professional help.

Where your rug was made and the type of wool used largely dictate how the rug needs to be cared for, from common issues discussed here to splits, tears, burns and heavy soil. Check back to our blog frequently for more information on issues you can safely remedy and when it may be wise to call for help.

About Woodard Cleaning & Restoration

Woodard Cleaning & Restoration was founded in 1946 by Earl and Nancy Woodard. Located in St. Louis, Missouri, Woodard services the greater metro area (Illinois, St. Charles County, Jefferson County, St. Louis County, and many more). Woodard is proud to serve as the preferred provider for cleaning & restoration services. Our cleaning services include carpet, hard surface, furniture, and rug cleaning for both residential and commercial properties. We also provide water, fire, board-up, storm and smoke restoration services for residential and commercial clients. For information or questions submit a form online or call us at (314) 227-3932.

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Updated 4/28/2018