CARE OF RUGS AND TEXTILES
There are four primary threats to the healthy condition of Oriental rugs, tapestries and textiles. These are moisture, light, insects and improper cleaning.
MOISTURE
Water staining is caused, not by the water itself, but by material dissolved in and transported by it. Wool, silk and cotton react with many substances. These may, in effect, dye the material and resist being cleaned. Flooding brings tannins, iron and dyeing substances into the rug or textile from floors, roofs, furnishings, etc. When the textile is wet with more than 75% humidity for more than a week, mold can grow. When it is 100% wet for a week or more, bacteria grows and the rug or textile will begin to rot. Flower pots, pet dishes and patio doors are the worst causes of rot. If there is a flood, it is possible to have the rug dried in an emergency by a restoration company or carpet cleaner - but it should only be cleaned professionally by a trusted conservator.
LIGHT
All wavelengths of light contribute energy for chemical reactions in dyes and textiles. The strongest reactions occur with light near the blue and ultraviolet end of the spectrum. In time, natural fibers become brittle and break down. Dyes fade. Sunlight provides a large amount of UV light, and windows should be filtered to eliminate it. Items should not be placed in direct sunlight if it can be avoided. Fluorescent lights also radiate UV in great amounts and should also be filtered if used.
INSECTS
Webbing and case-bearing moths, black and variegated dermestid beetles are the greatest threat for wool - and for silk to a lesser degree. Silverfish will feed on cotton, but only in a very humid situation. Tapestries and other hanging textiles are particularly vulnerable. They should be inspected on the reverse side regularly. Wool-consuming insects establish themselves in areas where they are unlikely to be disturbed - such as under furniture and under parts of a rug that are least walked upon. Good housekeeping and frequent inspections are the best remedy. Do not use moth balls, moth crystals or pesticides. They are hazardous to one's health and dangerous for textile materials. In the event of a serious infestation, contact a conservator for advice and treatment.
IMPROPER CLEANING
Talisman advises its clients not to clean an Oriental rug, tapestry or textile until they are assured that they have located the right conservation practice. Improper cleaning usually involves commercial cleaning formulations, hot water, mechanical brushing, washing machines, ineffective and possibly damaging procedures, incomplete cleaning and, especially, incomplete rinsing. Wall-to-wall steam carpet cleaning and traditional commercial rug cleaning are in drastic opposition to rug and textile conservation. Each has very different values and utilizes very different techniques. The aim of Oriental rug conservation cleaning is to preserve the intrinsic qualities of a rug or textile through appropriate individualized treatment and thorough hand cleaning. Other methods address only the appearance of soiling - not the reality of soiling.
Contact Talisman for advice on any aspect of care or cleaning
USEFUL GUIDES TO CARE
[click on a link]
STAIN REMOVAL GUIDE FOR TEXTILES
(includes Oriental rugs, but for a general approach to emergency rug spotting see the sidebar on this page.)
