How do I clean an old wool carpet?

Regular gentle suction vacuuming without a beater bar removes surface grit safely. Professional textile cleaning is necessary for deep washing to protect natural wool fibres. Avoid harsh chemical treatments or excessive water soaking, which can damage the foundation. Specialist care preserves both the structure and the natural dye integrity.

Can I place these rugs in high traffic areas?

Traditional wool carpets possess natural resilience and lanolin content that resist daily wear. Sturdy village and tribal weaves handle hallways and living spaces effectively. Using a quality underlay prevents slipping and cushions the textile against hard flooring. This simple addition reduces friction and extends the functional lifespan of the weave.

How do I identify a tribal rug?

Tribal rugs display geometric motifs, repeating medallions, and spontaneous local designs rather than formal court curves. These patterns reflect the specific heritage of nomadic or village groups. Colours in tribal pieces often utilise rich saturated tones with subtle variations from natural dye batches. Irregularities in symmetry reveal the hand-woven nature of cottage production.

What is the difference between a rug and a carpet?

The distinction generally relates to physical scale and how the textile occupies a room. Carpets typically describe larger floor coverings designed to span significant expanses. Rugs usually refer to smaller formats, such as prayer rugs, runners, or hearth-sized pieces. Both share identical hand-knotting techniques and regional material traditions.