A Guide to Safe Oriental Rug Cleaning Services in Chicago
It’s incredible to think that one of the oldest surviving rugs in the world is the Pazyryk rug, which scientists believe dates all the way back to the 5th century BC! So it just shows that when rugs are high quality, they can certainly last the test of time!
Oriental rugs are prized possessions that add elegance and charm to any home. They are often handed down from generation to generation and can hold great sentimental value.
However, they are also prone to getting dirty and stained over time. So it makes sense to employ professional oriental rug cleaning services if you own such a rug.
But be warned, not all rug cleaning services are created equal. Some use harsh chemicals and abrasive methods that can damage your rug irreparably. So, how do you find a safe and reliable oriental rug cleaning service in Chicago?
Keep reading to find out.
The Cultural Significance of Oriental Rugs
Oriental rugs have a rich cultural history that dates back thousands of years. They originated in Asia, particularly in countries like China, India, Iran, and Turkey, where they were woven by skilled artisans using traditional techniques passed down through generations.
These rugs were not just used as decorative pieces, but also held important cultural and religious significance for their communities. For example, in Islamic culture, the intricate designs and motifs on the rugs were often used to represent spiritual and philosophical concepts.
Today, Oriental rugs are still prized for their beauty and craftsmanship and are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the regions where they were first woven.
Why You Need Professional Oriental Rug Cleaning Services
You may be tempted to clean your oriental rug at home using DIY methods, such as carpet cleaning sprays and steam carpet cleaning machines. While these methods may work for regular carpets, they can be disastrous for oriental rugs. Oriental rugs are made from delicate materials like wool, silk, and cotton, which can be easily damaged by harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaning methods.
Additionally, oriental rugs are often dyed using natural dyes, which can be sensitive to pH changes. Using the wrong cleaning solution can cause the colors to bleed and fade, ruining the rug’s appearance.
Professional oriental rug cleaning services in Chicago have the expertise and equipment to clean your rug safely and effectively. They use gentle cleaning solutions that are specifically designed for oriental rugs and have the knowledge to handle different types of stains without causing damage.
What to Look for in a Safe Oriental Rug Cleaning Service
When it comes to finding a safe and reliable oriental rug cleaning service in Chicago, there are several factors to consider. These include experience and expertise, safe cleaning methods, reputation, insurance, and guarantee.
In this section, we will explore each of these factors in more detail. The idea is to help you make an informed decision when choosing a cleaning service.
So here are the factors:
Experience and Expertise
When looking for a professional carpet cleaning service, try to find a company that has extensive experience and expertise in cleaning oriental rugs. Cleaning these types of rugs is not the same as cleaning regular carpets. It requires specialized knowledge and equipment.
One way to determine a company’s experience is to ask how long they’ve been in business. A company that has been around for several years is likely to have more experience in handling oriental rugs than a newer company.
You can also ask about the company’s training and certifications. A reputable company should be able to provide information about their training and certifications, which can give you an idea of their level of expertise.
Another way to gauge a company’s experience and expertise is to ask for references from previous customers. A reputable company should be happy to provide references and testimonials from satisfied customers.
Safe Cleaning Methods
Oriental rugs are delicate and require gentle cleaning methods that won’t damage the fibers or dyes. When choosing a rug cleaning service, make sure to ask about the cleaning methods that they use. Avoid companies that use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning techniques that can cause damage to your rug.
Another safe cleaning method for oriental rugs is hand washing. Hand washing involves soaking the rug in water and cleaning solution, then gently agitating the fibers by hand. This method is time-consuming and labor-intensive, but it is effective and gentle on the rug.
Reputation
The reputation of a commercial carpet cleaning service is also a crucial factor to consider. You can check online reviews on sites like Trustpilot to get an idea of the company’s reputation. Look for companies with high ratings and positive reviews from satisfied customers.
You can also ask around for recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors who have had their oriental rugs cleaned. Word-of-mouth recommendations are often the best way to find a reliable and trustworthy cleaning service.
Insurance
A reputable rug cleaning service should have liability insurance to protect you in case of damage to your rug. Accidents can happen during the cleaning process, so choose a company that has good insurance coverage.
Make sure to ask about the company’s insurance coverage and what it covers. A reputable company should be transparent about its insurance policy. They should provide you with a copy of their insurance certificate upon request.
Guarantee
A guarantee is another important factor to consider when choosing a rug cleaning service. A reputable company should offer a satisfaction guarantee, which means that if you are not satisfied with the cleaning results, they will come back and re-clean your rug at no extra cost.
Make sure to ask about the company’s guarantee policy and what it covers. A reputable company should be willing to stand behind their work and offer a satisfaction guarantee to their customers.
How Do the Professionals Remove Oriental Rug Stains
Oriental rugs are beautiful works of art that add elegance and sophistication to any room. However, they are also prone to staining, which can be a challenge to remove. When it comes to removing oriental rug stains, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
In this section, we’ll take a look at how local professionals remove oriental rug stains:
Identify the Stain and Pre-Treatment
The first step in removing an oriental rug stain is to identify the type of stain. Different types of stains require different cleaning methods, so it’s important to know what you’re dealing with. Common types of oriental rug stains include food and beverage stains, pet stains, and ink stains.
Once the stain has been identified, the next step is to pre-treat the stain. This involves applying a cleaning solution to the stain and allowing it to sit for a period of time to loosen the stain. The type of cleaning solution used will depend on the type of stain and the material of the rug.
For example, for food and beverage stains, a solution of white vinegar and water may be used, while for pet stains, an enzyme-based cleaner may be more effective. It’s vital to use a cleaning solution that is safe for the rug and won’t cause damage.
Cleaning
After the pre-treatment, the rug is cleaned using a specialized cleaning method, which will depend on the type of rug and the severity of the stain. For delicate and antique rugs, a gentle hand washing using mild detergents and soft brushes is recommended. This method ensures that the fibers of the rug are not damaged while thoroughly removing dirt and grime.
For rugs with stubborn stains, a professional rug cleaner may use a low-moisture cleaning method that uses minimal water and specialized cleaning solutions to remove the stain without causing any damage to the rug fibers. Additionally, a dry-cleaning method that uses chemicals and specialized equipment may be used for heavily soiled or stained rugs.
You should note that each rug is unique and requires special care during the cleaning process. Therefore, it is highly recommended to seek the services of a professional rug cleaner who has experience in handling oriental rugs and can recommend the best cleaning method for your rug.
Drying
After the rug has been cleaned, it needs to dry properly to prevent mold and mildew growth. The drying process can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on the size of the rug and the humidity level.
Professionals will use specialized equipment, such as fans and dehumidifiers, to ensure that the rug is dried thoroughly and quickly. It’s important to avoid exposing the rug to direct sunlight or high heat, as this can cause the colors to fade or the fibers to shrink.
Post-Treatment
Once the rug is dry, a post-treatment may be applied to protect the fibers and prevent future stains. This may involve applying a protective coating or a stain-resistant solution to the rug.
Removing oriental rug stains requires expertise, knowledge, and specialized equipment. By leaving it to the professionals, you can ensure that your rug is cleaned safely and effectively and that it continues to be a cherished part of your home for years to come.
Post-treatment is not always necessary or recommended for all oriental rugs. It is best to consult with a professional rug cleaner. They will determine whether your rug would benefit from post-treatment and what type of treatment is appropriate.
Try to follow any care instructions provided by the cleaner. This ensures that the rug remains in good condition after the cleaning process.
How to Look After Your Oriental Rug Once It’s Cleaned
After you’ve had your oriental rug professionally cleaned, there are some steps you can take to ensure it stays looking its best for as long as possible. Regular vacuuming is essential to keep your rug free of dirt and debris. Use a soft brush attachment and vacuum once a week or more frequently if it’s in a high-traffic area.
Rotating your rug every six months can prevent uneven wear and tear. This is especially important for rugs in high-traffic areas or those that receive direct sunlight. UV rays can cause colors to fade, so avoid placing the rug in direct sunlight or near a window. Moisture can also cause damage, so keep the rug away from damp or humid areas.
Spills happen, but it’s important to clean them up as soon as possible to avoid damage. Blot the spill with a clean cloth to remove as much of the liquid as possible, then use a mild detergent and water to clean the area. Avoid using harsh chemicals or rubbing the area too vigorously.
Using a rug pad can prevent the rug from slipping and sliding on the floor and provide extra cushioning. Choose a rug pad appropriate for the type of flooring you have. These simple steps can help keep your oriental rug looking as good as new for years to come, providing a source of beauty and pride in your home.
Your Guide to Finding and Using Oriental Rug Cleaning Services
So now you should have a pretty good idea about how to find and what to look for in oriental rug cleaning services. We have to say that experience and expertise should be at the forefront of your search for a quality service.
At Carpet Cleaning Group (CCG) in Chicago, we have that experience and expertise, and all the rest! If you would like your oriental rug cleaned, get in touch today for a free quote.
