World-Class Handmade
Rugs Since 1986

Regular Maintenance

The key to preserving your oriental rug's beauty and value lies in consistent, gentle care. A well-maintained handmade rug can last for generations. Many antique rugs are over 100 years old and still stunning.

Vacuum regularly, but correctly. Use a canister vacuum without a beater bar, or set your upright vacuum to the highest pile setting. Vacuum in the direction of the pile, not against it. For delicate or antique rugs, simply use a carpet sweeper.

Rotate Your Rug

Rotate your rug 180 degrees every six months. This ensures even wear and prevents one area from fading more than others due to foot traffic and sunlight exposure. Mark the back of your rug lightly with tape so you remember which direction it was facing.

Spot Cleaning Tips

Accidents happen. When they do, act quickly: blot (never rub) the spill immediately with a clean white cloth. Work from the outside of the stain inward to prevent spreading.

• For liquid spills: Blot with a dry white cloth, then apply a solution of cool water with a tiny amount of mild dish soap. Blot again. Rinse with clean water and blot dry.
• For pet accidents: Blot thoroughly, then use a mixture of one part white vinegar to two parts water. Professional cleaning is recommended for pet stains, as urine can permanently damage dyes.
• For food: Scrape off solids gently with a spoon. Blot the area, then clean with mild soap and water.

Protect From Sun Damage

Direct sunlight is one of the biggest threats to your rug's colors. Use window treatments, UV-filtering film, or simply position your rug away from direct sun. If your room gets strong afternoon light, sheer curtains can reduce UV exposure by up to 50%.

Use a Rug Pad

A quality rug pad is essential. It prevents slipping, reduces wear, allows air circulation under the rug (preventing mildew), and adds cushioning. Choose a pad made from natural rubber or felt. Avoid PVC or adhesive pads that can damage hardwood floors.

Professional Cleaning

We recommend professional cleaning every 3–5 years, or more frequently for high-traffic areas or if you have pets. Professional hand-washing removes deep-set dirt that regular vacuuming can't reach and restores vibrancy to your rug's colors. Never use a steam cleaner on an oriental rug. The heat and moisture can cause bleeding, shrinkage, and damage.

At City of Rugs, our professional cleaning process is gentle yet thorough. We pick up and deliver at no extra charge throughout the Grand Strand area. Contact us to schedule a cleaning.

Two Great Traditions

Persian and Turkish rugs represent two of the most celebrated and enduring traditions in the world of handmade textiles. While both produce breathtaking works of art, they differ in technique, design philosophy, and cultural heritage.

The Knot: Senneh vs. Ghiordes

The most fundamental difference is the knot type. Persian rugs typically use the asymmetric "Senneh" (Persian) knot, which allows for higher knot density and more intricate, curvilinear designs. Turkish rugs use the symmetric "Ghiordes" (Turkish) knot, which creates a more durable, tightly-packed pile ideal for geometric patterns.

The knot type affects everything, from the fineness of detail possible to the rug's texture and durability. Neither is inherently superior; each excels in its own way.

Design Philosophy

Persian designs tend toward the elaborate and curvilinear. Central medallions surrounded by intricate floral arabesques are quintessentially Persian. Regions like Isfahan, Tabriz, and Nain produce rugs of extraordinary fineness, sometimes with over 1,000 knots per square inch.

Turkish designs favor bold geometry. Strong borders, angular motifs, and prayer rug designs are hallmarks. Turkish weavers often incorporate symbolic motifs: the "evil eye," tree of life, and fertility symbols appear frequently. Oushak rugs are known for their soft, muted palettes, while Hereke rugs rival Persian silk rugs in fineness.

Materials

Both traditions use wool as the primary pile material, though silk rugs from both countries command the highest prices. Persian rugs from Kerman often use extremely fine Merino-type wool, while Turkish rugs from the Anatolian highlands use hearty mountain sheep wool known for its natural lanolin content and durability.

Color Palette

Persian rugs often feature rich jewel tones (deep reds, navy blues, emerald greens) with intricate color transitions. The use of natural dyes from plants, insects, and minerals creates subtle variations that machine-dyed rugs cannot replicate.

Turkish rugs can range from similarly rich tones to the characteristically soft, sun-washed palette of Oushak rugs (coral, sage, ivory, pale gold). Village rugs often feature vivid, high-contrast color combinations.

Which Should You Choose?

The choice between Persian and Turkish really comes down to personal preference and your decor style. For formal, traditional rooms, a Persian medallion rug creates timeless elegance. For a warmer, more eclectic look, a Turkish Oushak or tribal Anatolian piece adds character and texture.

The best way to decide? Come see them in person. Visit our showroom at Myrtle Beach Mall, where you can compare both traditions side by side. Our experts will help you understand the nuances and find the perfect rug for your space.

Regular vacuuming keeps surface dirt at bay, but over time, particles work their way deep into the pile where home cleaning can't reach. Here are five clear signs it's time to bring in the professionals.

1. Colors Look Dull or Faded

If your rug's once-vibrant colors look muted or grayish, it's likely dirt buildup dulling the fibers, not actual fading. Professional cleaning removes embedded grime and restores the original vibrancy. Many customers are amazed at how bright their rug looks after a thorough hand washing.

2. You Can See Dust When You Fold It

Try this test: fold a corner of your rug back on itself and press down. If you see a puff of dust or dirt particles, your rug is holding more than surface debris. This embedded dirt acts like sandpaper on the rug's fibers, gradually wearing them down and shortening your rug's life.

3. Allergies Are Getting Worse

Oriental rugs are excellent air filters. They trap allergens, dust mites, and pollutants. But when they reach capacity, those particles become airborne again with foot traffic. If household allergies are flaring up, your rugs may need professional attention.

4. There's an Odor

Rugs can absorb and hold odors from cooking, pets, and general use. If your rug has developed a persistent smell that doesn't improve with airing, it needs professional cleaning. This is especially critical for pet odors, which can penetrate deep into the foundation and attract your pet to the same spot again.

5. It's Been More Than 3 Years

Even if your rug looks fine, the general recommendation is professional cleaning every 3–5 years for rugs in normal use, and every 1–2 years for high-traffic areas or homes with pets. Think of it as preventive maintenance: regular professional cleaning extends the life of your rug significantly.

Ready for a Refresh?

At City of Rugs, our cleaning process starts at just $3 per square foot. We offer free pickup and delivery throughout the Grand Strand and Pee Dee region. Your rug will be hand-washed, carefully dried, and returned to you looking its best. Schedule a pickup today or call us at (843) 272-5700.