How do I clean a fragile antique rug?

Surface dust should be removed gently using a suction-only vacuum without a rotating beater bar. Professional textile conservators should handle deep washing to protect old wool and natural dyes. Water saturation and harsh commercial detergents cause the natural dyes to bleed and ruin the delicate pile structure. Regular gentle maintenance preserves the integrity of the fibres for decades.

What is the difference between a runner and an area rug?

Runners are long, narrow textiles traditionally utilised in hallways, staircases, and narrow domestic spaces. Their proportions emphasise linear borders and repeating geometric motifs. Area rugs provide broader rectangular surfaces suited for centring beneath furniture groupings. Both formats share identical village or tribal weaving techniques.

How do I identify a Baluch rug?

Baluch tribal weavings typically feature deep terracotta, dark brown, and indigo palettes arranged in compact geometric layouts. Their handles are often supple yet heavy due to the quality of regional wool. Many examples include 'pencil box' borders or camel hair highlights in the outer guards. These characteristic design traits separate them from larger urban Persian workshop carpets.