Rug cleaning methods explained

Hot water extraction

Good for most synthetic and many wool area rugs cleaned in place. Soil is rinsed out and extracted. Temperature is lowered for wool.

Low-moisture cleaning

Used on natural fibers like jute and sisal and on fabrics that water-mark. A cleaning compound is worked in and removed with minimal water.

Full wash

For hand-knotted, heavily soiled or urine-damaged rugs: the rug is dusted to remove dry soil, washed on both sides, rinsed thoroughly and dried flat. This is done off-site and is the most thorough method.

Why testing comes first

Before choosing a method, a good cleaner checks the fiber (wool, cotton, silk, viscose or synthetic), tests each dye color with a damp white cloth, and looks at the foundation and fringe. That quick check is what prevents shrinking, bleeding and yellowing.

Which is right?

It depends on the fiber, construction, dyes and condition. That's why we inspect and test before choosing.

Around Long Island

We choose the method rug by rug, whether it is a jute rug in East Hampton, a wool rug in Rockville Centre or a silk rug in Kings Point.