How do I clean an old wool rug?

Gentle surface cleaning and professional immersion washing preserve the wool pile and natural dyes. Avoid harsh chemical detergents that strip natural oils from the fibres. Regular light vacuuming without a rotating brush roll prevents dust accumulation in the base of the pile. Specialist restoration prevents minor edge wear from spreading.

Are these rugs suitable for high-traffic areas?

Wool possesses inherent resilience and natural lanolin that resists everyday dirt and wear. This makes hand-knotted wool floor coverings durable additions to hallways and living spaces. Purchasing a suitable underlay prevents unnecessary friction and movement against hard flooring. Proper placement distributes foot traffic evenly across the surface.

How can I identify a tribal rug?

Tribal carpets often display geometric motifs, repeating medallions, and informal field arrangements reflecting nomadic or village traditions. Artisans wove these pieces from memory using locally sourced materials and natural dyes. Structural irregularities in the weave and asymmetric borders often point toward tribal origins rather than urban workshop production. Regional characteristics link specific styles to groups such as the Baluch, Afshar, or Yomut.

What is the difference between a rug and a carpet?

Terminology often distinguishes pieces by physical scale, where smaller formats function as area rugs or mats while larger formats serve as carpets. Both share identical hand-knotting and flat-weaving construction techniques. Historical records and marketplace listings apply both terms interchangeably depending on room placement and dimensions.