To store your Persian rug properly and ensure it remains in pristine condition, follow these essential steps:
Procedure to Store Your Persian Rug Effectively
Clean the Rug Thoroughly
Vacuum both sides of the rug to remove dirt, dust, and debris. Dirt can degrade the fibers over time.
If the rug has any stains, it’s important to have them professionally cleaned before storage, especially if it's made of natural fibers and dyes.
Do not store a dirty rug, as dirt and debris attract pests and can cause fiber damage over time.
Protect Against Pests (Moths & Carpet Beetles)
Persian rugs, especially wool ones, are prone to moth and carpet beetle damage. To protect your persian rugs against moths:
Use mothballs or cedar blocks around the storage area.
Consider spraying the rug lightly with a pest repellent that is safe for wool, or place moth traps in the storage area.
Avoid direct contact between the rug and mothballs, as chemicals could damage the fibers.
Roll, Don’t Fold
Never fold a Persian rug, as folding can create creases and damage the fibers over time.
Roll the rug tightly from the bottom end (the side where the pile naturally lies flat) to the top.
Use a long cardboard tube or plastic pipe as the core to help keep the shape.
If the rug is particularly large, roll it in sections.
Wrap in Breathable Material
Once rolled, the rug should be wrapped in breathable material like muslin, cotton fabric, or Tyvek (a breathable polyethylene fabric).
Avoid plastic wrap, as it traps moisture, which can lead to mold and mildew growth.
The breathable wrap will protect the rug from dust, pests, and light exposure while allowing air circulation.
Store in a Climate-Controlled Environment
Avoid extreme temperatures and humidity. Persian rugs should be stored in a cool, dry place. High humidity can cause mold, mildew, and fiber degradation, while excessive dryness can make the fibers brittle.
Ideal storage conditions:
Temperature: between 60-75°F (15-24°C).
Humidity: between 40-60%.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
Direct sunlight can cause colors to fade, especially in natural-dye Persian rugs. Make sure the storage area is dark or the rug is protected from light exposure.
Check Periodically
Every 6-12 months, unroll the rug to inspect it for signs of damage, pests, or moisture. This also gives the fibers a chance to breathe.
Re-roll and re-wrap the rug once it’s been inspected.
Elevate Off the Floor
To avoid accidental exposure to water or pests, store the rug off the ground. You can place it on a shelf or rack, or suspend it using support straps.
Use Acid-Free Tissue Paper
For added protection, you can place layers of acid-free tissue paper between the layers of the rug as you roll it. This helps protect the fibers from friction and pressure.
Professional Storage (Optional)
For very expensive or antique Persian rugs, consider professional storage services. Some storage companies specialize in storing valuable textiles in optimal conditions.
Should I store the rug vertically or horizontally?
Vertically is the recommended way to store your Persian rug. Because storing a rug horizontally can lead to flat spots, which can be difficult or impossible to remove. Vertical storage helps the rug retain its original shape.
Can you store a rug in plastic?
No, you should not store a rug in plastic. Plastic creates a sealed environment that traps moisture, leading to mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors. The trapped moisture can weaken the rug's fibers, causing them to deteriorate.
Is it bad to leave a rug rolled up?
Yes, it's generally not ideal to leave a rug rolled up for an extended period. While rolling is the preferred method for storing a rug, it's recommended to unroll your rug every few months and let it lay flat for a day or two to help prevent these issues.
Here's why:
Creases: Prolonged rolling can cause permanent creases in the rug.
Fiber Damage: Constant pressure from rolling can weaken the fibers.
Mold and Mildew: If the rug is stored in a damp environment, being rolled up can increase the risk of mold and mildew growth.
How to Properly Wrap a Rug for Storage?
Here are the steps on how to properly wrap a rug for storage:
Use brown paper to wrap the rug. Avoid using plastic, as it can trap moisture and damage the rug.
The brown paper should extend 18 to 24 inches beyond each end of the rug.
Roll the rug tightly in the brown paper, ensuring the paper fully covers the rug.
Use wrapping tape to secure the paper every 15 to 18 inches.
Fold the excess paper at the ends of the rug to create a triangle shape.
Fold the triangle over the end of the rug to fully enclose it.
Repeat on the other end of the rug.
What is the best place to store Persian Rugs?
The best place to store your Persian rug is under the bed because under your bed can also work as long as the area is dry, dark, and protected from pests.
What are the places to avoid when Storing Persian Rugs?
The places that you need to avoid when storing Persian rugs are Basements and Attics, Garages, and Outdoor storage units.
What are the best materials to use for wrapping a Persian rug before storage?
The best materials to use for wrapping a Persian rug before storage are acid-free paper, muslin cloth, Tyvek paper, cardboard tubes, and twine or soft rope. Let’s learn how you can wrap your Persian rug before storing it.
Acid-Free Paper
Using clean, acid-free paper is one of the best options for wrapping your rug. This type of paper protects the fibers from dust and dirt while preventing any chemical reactions that could damage the rug over time. Acid-free paper is particularly beneficial for long-term storage.
Muslin Cloth
Muslin is a breathable fabric that provides excellent protection against dust, pests, and light. Wrapping your rug in muslin helps maintain airflow, reducing the risk of mold and mildew. If muslin is unavailable, a clean, white cotton sheet can serve as a suitable alternative.
Tyvek Paper
For longer storage periods, consider using Tyvek paper. This synthetic material is durable and breathable, providing protection against dust and pests while allowing moisture to escape. It’s an ideal choice for ensuring your Persian rug remains safe from environmental factors.
Cardboard Tubes
When rolling your rug for storage, use a sturdy cardboard tube to prevent creases and damage to the fibers. Rolling the rug around the tube helps maintain its shape and reduces stress on the foundation.
Twine or Soft Rope
To secure your rolled rug, use twine or a soft rope. Avoid using materials that could be abrasive or put too much pressure on the rug's surface. Twine keeps the rug tightly rolled without causing damage.