How do I clean an old wool rug?

Surface dust settles deep within the foundation threads, so regular gentle vacuuming without a beating brush attachment helps maintain the fibres. Professional hand washing remains necessary for removing embedded soil without disturbing the natural dyes. Harsh chemical detergents or soaking will cause bleeding in traditional dyes and damage the wool structure. Specialist textile cleaners use controlled water temperatures and gentle drying methods to preserve the integrity of the weave.

Where were these carpets originally woven?

Production centres span across Persia and the Caucasus, incorporating urban workshops, rural villages, and nomadic tribal camps. Different districts developed distinct visual vocabularies, such as the geometric corners of Heriz or the fine floral curves of Isfahan and Saroukh. Nomadic groups like the Afshar, Khamseh, and Bakhtiar worked independently from fixed workshops, translating memory and local flora into their geometric patterns. This regional diversity means two rugs from adjacent valleys can display entirely different colour palettes and knotting structures.

Can I place these under heavy furniture?

Dense wool pile absorbs the weight of wooden tables and chairs effectively without crushing permanently. Distributing the load across flat glides prevents excessive localized depression in the foundation. Rotating the rug periodically ensures that foot traffic and furniture placement wear the pile evenly over the years. This simple practice prevents distinct paths from forming in high-use areas of the room.

What underlay should I use?

A breathable mesh underlay prevents the rug from slipping on polished wooden floors or stone tiles. It adds a layer of cushioning that reduces friction between the floorboards and the cotton foundation. Avoid solid rubber or plastic backings that trap moisture and restrict airflow through the natural wool fibres. Natural felt and rubber composites offer a secure grip while allowing the textile to breathe.