How do I clean a traditional woven area carpet?

Regular gentle vacuuming without a beater bar removes surface dust and loose grit effectively. Professional specialist cleaning remains essential for deep maintenance to protect the delicate natural wool fibres. Water and household detergents should be avoided entirely, as moisture can weaken the cotton foundations and cause fugitive dyes to bleed. Promptly blot accidental liquid spills with a dry white cloth without rubbing the pile.

Can I place these carpets in high-traffic hallways?

Sturdy village and tribal carpets constructed from resilient wool handle moderate foot traffic well. Placing a quality underlay beneath the textile prevents slipping and reduces friction against hard flooring. Delicate pieces featuring silk highlights or fine prayer formats suit lower-traffic spaces like studies or bedrooms better. Rotating the carpet periodically ensures even wear patterns across the surface over the years.

How do I distinguish Persian from Caucasian rugs?

Persian carpets frequently incorporate complex floral curves, central curvilinear medallions, and intricate garden motifs. These pieces often originate from established weaving centres like Tabriz, Isfahan, or Saroukh. Caucasian examples tend to display bold geometric shapes, sharp rectilinear polygons, and striking primary colour palettes. These tribal designs reflect the heritage of weavers from regions such as Kazak and Karabagh.

What is the difference between a carpet and a kilim?

Traditional carpets feature a thick pile created by individual knots tied onto a foundation warp and weft. This construction method yields a plush surface and a heavy handle suitable for floor insulation. Kilims are flatwoven textiles lacking any raised pile, resulting in a lighter, reversible fabric. They rely on interlocking weft techniques to create crisp, geometric pattern boundaries.