If you own oriental rugs, you’ll want to clean them at least once annually. But take special care — the process of cleaning an oriental rug is different from cleaning plain carpet.

Extreme caution is required.

To clean an Oriental rug, first vacuum the rug on both sides, then follow these cleaning instructions:

1. Prepare a solution of cool water and gentle shampoo (i.e. shampoo without ammonia)
2. Test the solution on tiny corner of the rug to make sure that the rug’s colors won’t bleed
3. Using a soft brush or dense sponge, brush the rug with the shampoo solution
4. Use only light pressure and follow the “grain” of the rug
5. Shampoo the rug’s fringe, then comb it gently with a large comb or brush
6. Rinse the entire rug and press out as much water as possible
7. Lay the rug flat and leave it to dry

After several hours, test the front of the rug for moisture. When it feels dry, flip the rug over to dry its back.

Note : Do not dry an oriental rug in the sun because the sun’s rays may cause it to fade.

Once both sides of the rug are totally dry, feel the top surface. If it feels stiff, crunchy or hard, take a dry brush and make gentle strokes. A light vacuuming will also do the job.

Oriental rugs that receive proper care can become family heirlooms, passed down from one generation to the next. Make sure you clean yours properly.