How do I care for a kilim rug?

Vacuum the flatweave gently using suction alone without a rotating brush bar to protect the wool fibres. Periodic professional cleaning preserves the natural dyes and prevents dust accumulation within the tight weave. Rotate the rug occasionally to ensure even wear across high-traffic areas. Placing a breathable underlay beneath the textile prevents slipping and reduces friction against the floor.

Can these rugs be used on heated floors?

Wool and cotton flatweaves tolerate underfloor heating well because natural fibres breathe effectively. Ensure the temperature remains moderate to prevent drying out the historic animal and plant materials. A breathable natural underlay provides sufficient insulation and allows heat to circulate freely beneath the textile.

What is the difference between a kilim and a carpet?

Kilims are woven flat without any raised pile, resulting in a lightweight and reversible textile. Traditional carpets feature a knotted pile that creates a dense, plush surface texture. Because they lack pile, flatweaves sit lower to the ground and often display sharper, more geometric pattern boundaries determined by the grid of the weave.

How do I distinguish regional styles?

Caucasian and Anatolian pieces typically feature bold geometric medallions, tribal symbols, and strong contrasting borders. European Bessarabian examples lean towards floral tapestry designs rendered in softer tonal gradations. Examining the structural strip count, colour palette, and specific weaving traditions helps attribute pieces to particular regions such as Shirvan, Karabagh, or Sarkoy.