How do I clean a flatweave rug?

These pileless textiles require gentle care, typically involving regular light vacuuming without a rotating brush to remove grit. Professional cleaning suited to antique wool and natural dyes preserves the fibres. Water and harsh chemical detergents damage natural colourings and weaken the wool foundation. Surface marks benefit from prompt, gentle blotting with mild soap by a specialist.

Where were these rugs made?

The pieces originate across a broad geographic span covering Anatolia, Persia, the Caucasus, Central Asia, and parts of Eastern Europe. Specific nomadic confederations and towns developed distinct weaving vocabularies. Tribes such as the Qashqa'i and Afshar worked in Persia, while workshops in Bessarabian and Pirot produced characteristic European and Balkan designs.

Can I use them on the floor?

Many of these textiles functioned originally as floor coverings, horse blankets, or storage pieces, making them durable enough for modern foot traffic. A quality underlay helps prevent slipping and reduces friction against hard floors. Frail or lighter items, such as smaller storage bags or delicate cushions, suit low-traffic areas or wall display better than heavy corridors.

What is the difference between a kilim and a rug?

A kilim is specifically a flatweave textile constructed without knotted pile, relying on the interlacing of warp and weft threads. Traditional rugs often feature a raised pile surface created by tied knots. Both categories include runners and large carpets, but the flat construction of a kilim results in a lighter, reversible textile with a smooth finish.