How do I clean an old wool rug?

Gentle surface vacuuming without a beater bar removes loose grit and dust accumulated within the pile fibres. Professional washing remains necessary for deep cleaning to protect the natural dyes. Harsh chemical detergents and excessive water damage the wool structure and cause colours to bleed. Specialist rug conservators handle total immersion cleaning safely.

Can I place these carpets in hallways?

Sturdy village runners and heavy wool carpets withstand moderate foot traffic when paired with a quality underlay. The dense weave absorbs pressure effectively in corridors. Direct, continuous sunlight causes natural dyes to fade unevenly over extended periods. Rotating the rug periodically balances environmental exposure.

How do I distinguish regional styles?

Caucasian weaves like Kazak feature bold, primary-coloured geometric shapes and stiff wool. Persian Heriz carpets display large scale angular medallions with robust structural framing. Turkmen rugs utilise repeating guls in deep red fields with dark navy accents. Kurdish and Afshar pieces show smaller, intricate village motifs.

What is a village rug versus a tribal rug?

Village rugs are produced by settled communities working in fixed locations using traditional regional patterns. They often incorporate sturdier cotton foundations alongside wool. Tribal pieces originate from nomadic groups weaving on portable looms with entirely woolen materials. Their designs reflect immediate ancestral motifs and spontaneous colour choices.