How do I clean an old runner?

Gentle surface brushing and regular low-suction vacuuming remove loose dust without stressing the fragile wool foundation. Professional textile conservation cleaning is recommended for deep soil removal, avoiding harsh chemical detergents that strip natural lanolin.

Can these runners handle hallway foot traffic?

Traditional wool pile construction provides natural durability suitable for domestic corridors and landing spaces. Utilising a quality underlay beneath the runner prevents slipping and cushions the fibres against hard subfloors.

What is the difference between Kurdish and Caucasian styles?

Kurdish pieces often feature saturated geometric layouts and soft, heavy wool handles produced in western regional settlements. Caucasian runners tend to display crisper, more linear tribal medallions with highly contrasting primary colour palettes.

How do I determine the age of a runner?

Stylistic markers, structural materials like hand-spun wool, and natural dye characteristics help anchor pieces within nineteenth or early twentieth-century windows. Slight irregularities in weave and natural wear patterns further indicate traditional production methods predating modern synthetic dyes.