Oriental Rug Buying Guide

Buying a rug is a bit intimidating. As if we were entering an unknown universe, which recalls the tales of very old times.

However, oriental rugs, these magnificent works of art, have crossed all eras and fashions. And they are still beautiful.

Here is our buying guide.

How To Recognize A Quality Carpet?

Rich, even colors are one of the first signs of a good quality rug. If they are rubbed off in places, beware! The color may not hold up as much as it should ... Variations in color or shape in the patterns are on the other hand proof of fantasy since a handmade rug is never perfectly symmetrical.

The density of the weave is also an excellent indicator of the quality of a carpet - a factor which in particular increases the price. The denser the carpet, the clearer the pattern will be on the backing due to the greater number of knots.

Can We Make Sure That A Rug Has Not Been Woven By Children?

The carpet industry has often had bad press when it comes to child labor - highly prized for their tiny fingers. It is indeed difficult to know precisely who made his carpet.

In northern India, a region of the state of Uttar Pradesh, nicknamed the Carpet Belt because of its large production, is particularly targeted. Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, and Nepal are already signatories, which is forcing them to take the necessary measures to curb this scourge.

Some importers have chosen to join forces with organizations, such as Care & Fair or Rugmark, which fight against child labor. Inform yourself during your shopping.

Where To Buy An Oriental Rug?

For Normand Payer, from H. Lalonde & Frère, you have to see and touch the rug before buying it.

He, therefore, does not recommend online shopping, which usually does not offer adequate after-sales service (in case of defects). Not to mention that fairly high transport and import costs can quickly add to the bill.

Thinking Of Bringing Back A Carpet In Your Luggage?

Ask the merchant for an invoice or proof of its value. Keep in mind that if you spend more than $ 800 on your trip overseas for more than 48 hours, you will need to pay customs duties. Merchants, who were mainly located on Parc Avenue in Montreal, also faced competition from big box stores, many of which now sell oriental-style rugs - at very competitive prices.

Several of them have a closed shop in recent years, you shouldn't be afraid to travel to find your favorite.

Take Care Of Your Oriental Rug

When you spend several hundred or even thousands of dollars on an oriental rug for sale, you want it to last. Adequate cleaning is therefore essential. Here are some tips for gentle maintenance. Vacuum regularly to prevent dirt from settling into the base of the carpet; they could destroy the fibers in the long run. The vacuum cleaner, however, risks damaging the wiring due to its power.

So it is better to use the removable brush, especially for the bangs, if there is any. Cut any protruding threads rather than pulling them, and beat the backing carpet. If food or liquids spill on the carpet, wipe it off immediately with a clean towel and mild soapy water. Hossein Saeed, of Tapis Homa, prefers sparkling water. Even mustard can be removed without too much damage, he says.

Wait for it to harden before gently scratching. Never use cleaning products that can quickly discolor the carpet, like steam cleaning. Make sure it is completely dry before laying it out again, as moisture can mold the wool.

Regularly rotate the rug 180 degrees to avoid wear and fading in specific areas, whether from frequent traffic, the weight of the furniture, or the sun, which fades colors over time.

Most carpet dealers also offer professional cleaning (averaging $ 2.50 per square foot) and repair for threads and fringes.