Elegant, Exquisite, Exclusive! These three E’s determine the gracefulness of a silk rug. Silk rug has a tendency to stain your room with glamour and tells a story through its enchanting hues and patterns. Silk rugs are making a rapid comeback in both the Modern and Oriental rug industry, while the delicateness of silk material makes this rug a must-have, the vulnerability of the material makes it high-risk when it comes to stains and dirt on a silk rug.

Nourison SHA10 Silk Shadows Wine Wool Rug

What is Silk?

Silk is a natural protein fibre that is produced when silkworm larvae form a cocoon. Composed primarily of fibroin, silk is one of the strongest natural fibres and is known for its ability to refract light, which helps in creating a shimmering effect in silk rugs.

Velvet Anthracite Plain Rug by ITC

Do’s and Don’ts of cleaning Silk Rugs:

When it comes to cleaning a silk rug, there are certain don’ts that should be kept in mind.

➣Chemical Cleaning Agents- Don’t use enzymatic cleaners, which use enzymes to digest protein-based stains; silk consists largely of protein, so these cleaners may break down the silk fibres.

➣Heat- Because it’s a natural fibre, silk has the sensitivity to shrink and dull when it’s exposed to heat. Don’t use hot water or steam; always air dry your silk rug.

➣Dampness- Avoid soaking our rug with any cleansing solution, as this may cause the colours to run together. Since heat and moisture are both damaging to a silk rug’s fine fibres, avoid steam cleaning as well. Don’t soak the rug, not even in water.

➣Don’t rub, wring or scrub the rug, to avoid damaging its fibres.

➣Don’t ever consider applying chlorine bleach to silk; it won’t just cause colour loss- it will destroy the fibres.

➣Don’t bunch or stretch the rug, to avoid permanently changing its shape.

➣Don’t place your silk rug in a high traffic area as it is more likely to be stained or wear out.

Nourison ALD13 Aldora Royal Rug

Methods of cleaning a Silk Rug

1.How to remove Dust and Debris from Silk Rugs-

➣Regularly vacuuming your silk rugs: Use a brushless suction head to vacuum silk rugs. Beater or roller brushes may pull out fibres, reduce the pile and damage the rug.

➣Sweeping the Silk Rugs with a Broom: Gently sweep the rug to avoid damaging the fibres.

2.How to Remove Stains from Silk Rugs-

➣Gently lift solids: Act fast so that stains can’t cling to the fibres. If it’s a solid stain, use a spoon to gently collect any solid substances from the rug before you try to remove the deeper stain. Any chipping could cause the rug to tear, so try to scoop instead of scrape.

➣Lightly dab liquids: Soak up liquid stains by dabbing them with a soft cloth, however, avoid rubbing as it can accidentally scrub away fibres. You can soak the cloth in an equal combination of room-temperature water and vinegar to lift more stubborn stains. Apply the mixture using a spray bottle to evenly distribute the cleanser and help protect your rug from excessive moisture

➣Neutralize the stain’s colour and odour: If you use the vinegar-water solution, the acidity should already work to remove any odour caused by the stain. If there is still a lingering smell, spread baking soda over the affected area after the initial stain removal process and allow for an hour to absorb the spill. Vacuum up the remaining baking soda residue. Add club soda to your rinsed cloth if the stain leaves behind any colouring. The light acidity of the club soda can help to take that colour out. Next, use a separate dry cloth to gently blot up any leftover moisture.

C750-875 Rib Eye Silk 60 Gold Multi Deluxe Wool Rug by Theko


These are some at-home remedies for an emergency. However, the lowest risk option for your silk rug is getting it professionally cleaned. Make sure to have your rug professionally cleaned every few years to help maintain its glamorous look.

 

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