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FAQ's
Frequently asked questions
We clean all types of area rugs, including Persian, Oriental, tribal, braided, shags, Kilims, dhurrie, Moroccan, tufted wool, border rugs, and both natural and synthetic fibers. If it can be rolled up and brought to our workshop, we can clean it. Trust us to handle your rugs with care and expertise.
We specialize in hand repairs of rugs "in-house," meaning we do all of our repairs at our workshop in SE Portland. We also work with rug restoration experts in Turkey and have the capability to send large complex projects that out of the country. Any rug can be prepared; the question is whether it is worth the money to repair; this is best determined by bringing the rug to us for free no, cost evaluation.
To clean your Oriental rug, use gentle methods and avoid harsh chemicals. Regular vacuuming helps remove dust and dirt. For a deeper clean, professional services are recommended to ensure thorough cleaning without damaging the natural fibers. We specialize in professional cleaning to keep your rug looking its best.
The value of an Oriental rug can be influenced by factors such as its age, condition, and rarity. Other factors that can affect the value include the quality of the materials used, the design's intricacy, and the maker's reputation. Values are best determined by a rug appraiser or rug retailers with experience in the current market trends
To care for your Oriental rug, it's important to follow a few simple guidelines to help maintain its beauty and extend its lifespan. Here are some tips:
Vacuum regularly: Regular vacuuming can help remove dirt and dust that can accumulate in the rug fibers and cause damage over time. Use a vacuum with a beater bar or rotating brush to help loosen and remove debris.
Rotate the rug: To prevent uneven wear and fading, it's a good idea to rotate your Oriental rug every six months or so. This will help distribute foot traffic and sunlight exposure more evenly across the rug.
Spot clean spills: If you spill something on your Oriental rug, it's important to clean it up as quickly as possible to prevent staining. Blot up any excess liquid with a clean cloth or paper towel, then gently clean the area with a mixture of water and mild soap.
Avoid direct sunlight: Direct sunlight can cause fading and damage to your Oriental rug over time. To protect your rug, it's best to place it in an area that doesn't receive direct sunlight or to use curtains or shades to block out the sun.
Professional cleaning: For more thorough cleaning, it's a good idea to have your Oriental rug professionally cleaned every few years. Look for a reputable rug cleaning service that specializes in Oriental rugs and uses gentle, non-toxic cleaning methods.
Oriental rugs and Persian rugs are both types of handmade rugs, but there are some key differences between the two. Here's what you should know:
Origin: Oriental rugs are made in various countries throughout Asia, including Iran (formerly Persia), Turkey, China, and India. Persian rugs, on the other hand, are specifically made in Iran.
Design: While both Oriental and Persian rugs are known for their intricate designs, there are some design differences between the two. Persian rugs often feature floral or curvilinear designs, while Oriental rugs may feature more geometric or abstract patterns.
Materials: Both types of rugs are typically made from natural materials such as wool, silk, or cotton. However, Persian rugs are often made from high-quality wool that is known for its durability and sheen.
Knotting: The way the rugs are knotted can also differ. Persian rugs are typically knotted using the Persian knot, which involves looping the yarn around two warp threads and then pulling it back through the middle. Oriental rugs, on the other hand, may use a variety of knotting techniques depending on the region and style.
Oriental rugs are handmade and have a rich cultural history. If you're considering buying an Oriental or Persian rug, be sure to do your research and purchase from a reputable dealer to ensure the authenticity and quality of the rug.
Oriental rugs are known for their durability and longevity, and with proper care and maintenance, they can last for decades or even centuries. In fact, some Oriental rugs have been passed down through generations of families and still look as beautiful as they did when they were first made.
The lifespan of an Oriental rug can depend on a variety of factors, including the quality of the materials used, the construction techniques, and the level of care and maintenance it receives. A high-quality Oriental rug that is made from durable, natural materials and is properly cared for can last for 50 years or more.
However, it's worth noting that some Oriental rugs are more delicate and may not last as long. Silk rugs, for example, are known for their softness and sheen, but may not be as durable as wool rugs. Additionally, rugs that are subjected to heavy foot traffic or exposure to sunlight may wear more quickly than those that are used less frequently.
To help extend the lifespan of your Oriental rug, it's important to follow proper care and maintenance guidelines, such as regular vacuuming, rotating the rug to prevent uneven wear, and avoiding exposure to direct sunlight. With proper care, your Oriental rug can continue to add beauty and warmth to your home for many years to come.
Oriental rugs are often considered a worthwhile investment due to their beauty, durability, and cultural significance. While they can be more expensive than machine-made rugs, their unique designs and handcrafted quality make them a valuable addition to any home.
In addition to their aesthetic appeal, Oriental rugs are known for their durability and longevity. With proper care and maintenance, a high-quality Oriental rug can last for decades or even centuries, making it a valuable family heirloom that can be passed down for generations.
Oriental rugs are also often seen as a way to invest in a piece of history and culture. These rugs have been made by hand using traditional techniques for centuries, and many rugs have unique designs that reflect the history and culture of the region where they were made.
While the initial investment in an Oriental rug may be higher than that of a machine-made rug, the long-term value and cultural significance of an Oriental rug can make it a worthwhile investment for those who appreciate quality craftsmanship and design.
It's worth noting that not all Oriental rugs are created equal, and it's important to do your research and purchase from a reputable dealer to ensure the authenticity and quality of the rug. A high-quality Oriental rug can be a valuable investment that adds beauty and warmth to your home for many years to come.
Hand-woven Oriental rugs are made using traditional hand weaving techniques that have been passed down for generations. Here's a general overview of the process:
Design: The design for the rug is first created, either by hand or by computer. The design is then transferred onto a graph paper or blueprint, which the weaver uses as a guide.
Materials: High-quality natural materials such as wool, silk, or cotton are used to create the rug. The yarn is typically dyed in batches to ensure consistency in color.
Loom: The weaver sets up the loom, which consists of a frame with vertical threads (warp) and horizontal threads (weft). The warp threads are stretched tightly and evenly to create the foundation for the rug.
Knotting: The weaver ties knots around pairs of warp threads to create the pattern of the rug. The type of knot used depends on the region and style of the rug.
Weaving: The weaver uses a hand tool called a shuttle to weave the weft threads through the warp threads. This creates the body of the rug and secures the knots in place.
Finishing: Once the weaving is complete, the rug is cut off the loom and the loose ends of the warp threads are tied and trimmed. The rug may also be washed, stretched, and blocked to achieve its final shape and size.
Hand-woven Oriental rugs can take months or even years to complete, depending on the size and complexity of the design. Each rug is a unique work of art, and the skill and craftsmanship of the weaver can greatly affect the quality and value of the rug.
Yes, it is possible to buy Oriental rugs online from reputable dealers and retailers. However, it is important to research the seller and carefully review product descriptions and photos before making a purchase to ensure the authenticity and quality of the rug.
Additionally, it's hard to asses color, quality and the aesthetic appeal of a rug from photos so rug may look dramatically different in your home than from photos. Make sure the retiar source has a return policy even then shipping a room size rug can be expensive several hundred dollars to return.
Yes, oriental rugs can add warmth and character to any home including modern homes. They can be paired with contemporary furniture and decor for a stylish and eclectic look. Not all oriental rugs have traditional designs motifs some tribal rugs such as Gabbeh often take on a look modern and contemporary look that works very well in modern homes
An authentic oriental rug will have hand-knotted or hand-woven natural fibers .
-Check the materials: Authentic Oriental rugs are made from high-quality natural materials such as wool, silk, or cotton. Look for rugs that have a soft, lustrous sheen and natural variations in color and texture.
-Look for hand-made construction: Authentic Oriental rugs are typically hand-woven using traditional techniques. Look for irregularities in the knots and variations in the design, which are signs of hand-made construction.
-Check the back of the rug: Flip the rug over and inspect the back. Authentic Oriental rugs typically have a rough, uneven texture on the back, with visible knots and fringe. Machine-made rugs, on the other hand, will have a smooth, uniform backing.
-Get an appraisal: If you're still unsure about the authenticity of a rug, consider getting an appraisal from a reputable appraiser or rug dealer.
There are several benefits of professional Oriental and area rug cleaning over DIY cleaning. Expertise and Experience: At Renaissance, we have over 35 years of experience and extensive knowledge working with Oriental rugs, and rugs are our sole focus. We are trained to identify the rug's specific material, construction, and condition, allowing us to determine the most suitable cleaning approach. Specialized Equipment: Our professional rug cleaning workshop has specialized equipment designed specifically for rug cleaning. These tools ensure thorough cleaning without causing damage to the delicate fibers or dyes. Our tools, such as rug centrifuges, rug dusting systems, and drying racks, are not portable and cannot be used in your home. Customized Cleaning Methods: Our cleaning experts tailor the cleaning process to the rug's specific needs, ensuring effective and safe removal of dirt, stains, and odors. Specialized Stain and Odor Removal: We effectively eliminate unpleasant odors, leaving your rug fresh and clean beyond the ability of surface cleaning from carpet rental machines. Controlled Drying: We use specialized rug cleaning equipment to remove as much as 90% of the water from your rug in under two minutes for fast drying, which is hard to achieve in a home setting.
Exercise caution when using chemical cleaners on Oriental rugs. Many cleaners, like Oxy-Clean and Chlorox, can harm colors and delicate fabrics & fibers. Many store-bought cleaners are highly alkaline and can cause color bleeding, fading, and damage to wool and silk fibers. Even baking soda can be harmful. Use pH-neutral products or those specifically made for natural fibers. For the best results, consult your local rug cleaners for recommendations.
In-plant cleaning is a special process. It removes deep dirt that home cleaning cannot get out. Regular shampoo or steam cleaning won't work either. Click the button to learn more about in-plant rug cleaning. Keep in mind that when you search for "area rug cleaning near me," not all cleaners treat Oriental rugs well. Some only do surface cleaning or steam cleaning
There are two common tactics in rug cleaning.
First, the cleaner doesn't have a wash plant they take you rug to their workshop in reality home garage and surface steam clean or shampoo your rug. In short the don't rally wash your rug, this is common.
Second, The cleaner has a very attractive lower price and works on an upsell model; got a pet spot, there's an up charge, rug has an odor issue; there is another up charge.
At Renaissance, these things are all covered at our base price, our pricing is always straightforward. Its why we recommend visiting the cleaners workshop
Oriental rug repair costs can vary widely based on several factors. Our repair factor in the uniqueness of different styles, and our repairs restore and recreate what has been damaged or missing.
Type of rug: Finer weave, for example, a high knot count Persian rug repair takes much more time Vs. The same repair on a coarser tribal rug
Type of Repair: Small stabilizing costs 30 dollars and up, while much more complex reweaving is time-consuming and starts at several hundred dollars.
This makes over-the-phone estimates sketchy at best; quality photos of the front and back of the damage are needed for price estimates.
To protect your rugs during a remodel, have them cleaned and wrapped beforehand. Unprotected rugs in basements or garages can attract wool moths, rodents, and even mildew. We offer pick-up, cleaning, wrapping, and delivery services. For an additional fee, we can store your rugs safely at our shop in SE Portland until your remodel is complete.
Seek out professional specialized rug cleaning companies with dedicated workshop an knowledgeable employees. In Portland, Renaissance Rug Cleaning Inc. focuses on cleaning and restoring oriental rugs, area rugs, and other textiles. Our professional services are designed to rejuvenate and preserve the quality of your precious rugs. We employ expert techniques and eco-friendly cleaning solutions to ensure every rug receives the utmost care.
New wool rugs shed. A lot.
If your rug is new and made of wool, shedding is normal. Wool rug shedding happens because short fibers are left in the pile during manufacturing. Once the rug is in your home, normal foot traffic and vacuuming allow those loose fibers to work their way out.
This is especially common with hand-knotted rugs, hand-woven rugs, and tufted wool rugs. It does not mean the rug is defective or falling apart. It means gravity and physics are doing their thing.
Shedding typically slows down after the first few months with regular use and proper vacuuming. Proper is doing a lot of work in that sentence.
When rug shedding is NOT normal
These are warning signs, not quirks:
Bald patches or thinning areas
Uneven wear patterns
Fibers coming out in clumps
Visible foundation or backing showing through
That's not shedding. That's fiber damage or structural wear, and it needs professional attention.
What you should do
Vacuum gently 1 to 2 times per week
Avoid aggressive beater bars and rotating brushes, or use them on the highest setting
Never pull loose fibers. Trim them with scissors instead
Have the rug inspected by a rug care professional
Schedule professional rug cleaning, cleaning can help remove the short pesky loose shedding fibers
Bottom line
Rug shedding is usually normal wool behavior, not a quality failure. Most wool rugs go through a break-in period and shed less over time with proper care. Panic vacuuming, over-cleaning, and aggressive machines only make shedding worse.
Your rug is not self-destructing. It just needs patience and the right kind of attention.
Short answer: Decades or longer If it's cared for properly, a handmade wool rug can last 50 to 100+ years, even much longer.
Why handmade wool rugs last so long
Wool for longevity. High-quality wool is elastic, resilient, and naturally soil-resistant. The fibers bend rather than snap, which is why a well-made wool rug can withstand daily foot traffic without disintegrating like a cheap synthetic.
Hand-knotted construction matters In a handmade rug, every knot is tied individually. There's no adhesive, latex glue slowly dry out and break down failing, When wear happens, it happens gradually and evenly, which means the rug can often be repaired, re-piled, or restored instead of replaced.
Patina is normal, not a flaw Over time, wool rugs develop patina and wear polish fibers, colors soften, highlights appear, and the rug gains character.
What shortens a rug's lifespan
Grit and soil left in the fibers
Infrequent professional cleaning
Aggressive vacuuming or beater bars
Sun exposure without rotation
Pet urine left untreated
Storing a dirty rug and improperly resulting in stains, mold and moth damage
Most rugs don't "wear out." They're neglected to death by dirt and infrequent cleqaning and much needed repairs.
How long they really last in real homes
Light to moderate use: 75-100+ years
Heavy foot traffic: 40-75 years
Properly maintained heirloom rugs: multiple generations
It surprises some to know that there are antique rugs still in daily use today that were woven before electricity, the automobile, and manned flight. A testament to what a quality hand woven rug can do
Bottom line
A handmade wool rug isn't disposable decor. It's a long-term textile investment. With regular vacuuming, rotation, and professional rug washing every few years, a good wool rug doesn't just last. It outlives trends, furniture, and most flooring choices.
If a rug fails in ten years, the rug wasn't the problem.
Short answer: It depends on the rug and several factors such as sentimental attachment, use, and value.
If the rug has substantial value.
Whether repairing an old Oriental rug makes sense comes down to four things. Ignore any one of them and you are gambling with money out of nostalgia.
1. The rug’s value If the rug is hand-knotted, wool or silk, and has good materials and dyes, repair often adds value or at least preserves it. Antique and semi-antique rugs especially fall into this category.
2. The type of damage Some damage is very repairable:
Worn edges and side cords
Fringe damage
Small holes or splits
Localized moth damage
Other damage is a red flag:
Severe dry rot
Widespread foundation failure
Large areas of dye loss or bleeding
Large holes
All can be repaired; a large hole can be rewoven, but it's time-consuming and expensive to do so. Good repairs are structural first, cosmetic second.
3. Cost versus replacement High-quality repair is slow, skilled, and not cheap. If the repair cost approaches or exceeds what it would cost to replace the rug with something comparable, repairing only makes sense if there is sentimental or historical value. If the rug is replaceable, replacing it is usually the smarter move.
4. Sentimental value This part annoys accountants, but matters anyway. Family rugs, heirlooms, or rugs tied to a specific place or person are often worth repairing, even if the numbers barely work. Rugs like that are not inventory. They are history you can still walk on.
Two types of repair
Machine repair done by sewing machines: More economical, appropriate for machine-made rugs, but can damage and destroy the collectability of hand-woven or oriental rugs.
Hand repair is done by a skilled repair person who hand reweaves parts of a rug or ends and sides, preserving the authenticity and value of hand-woven rugs, but is much more expensive
When hand repair is usually worth it.
Hand-knotted Oriental, Persian, Turkish, or tribal rugs
Older rugs with good wool and natural dyes
Damage caught early, before the foundation fails
When machine repair is usually worth it.
Machine-made or tufted rugs
low-value handmade rugs
Cheap imports where the repair exceeds the realistic value
Bottom line: repairing an old Oriental rug is worth it when you are preserving craftsmanship, not just fixing a floor covering. A good repair extends the rug’s life by decades. A bad repair just hides the problem until it gets worse and costs more.
Service Area
✔Portland metro area
✔Milwauke
✔Clackamas
✔ Happy Valley
✔Lake Oswego
✔West Linn
✔Dunthorpe
✔Tigard
✔Beaverton
✔Wilsonville
✔Salem
✔ Camas
✔Vancouver,
-We periodically service the Oregon coast, Hood River, Welches, Rhododendron, and Central Oregon, including Bend, Redmond, and sites call for availability
Rug Cleaning
✔ Oriental Rug
✔ Persian Rug
✔ Turkish rugs
✔ Antique Rug
✔ Area Rug
✔ Silk Rug
✔ Chinese Rug
✔ Shag Rug Cleaning
✔ Flokati
✔ Braided Rug
✔ Navajo Rug
✔ Vintage Rug
✔ Modern Rug
✔ Contemporary area carpet
✔ Viscose fibers
✔ Bamboo carpets
✔ Zero pile rugs
Rug Services
✔ Rug Repair
✔ Rug Restoration
✔ Rug Resizing
✔ Fringe Repair
✔ Edge Wrapping
✔ Rug Hole Repair
✔ Restoration Near Me
✔ Moth Damage Repair
✔ Reweaving
✔ Color Repair
✔ Pet Damage
✔ Rug Storage
✔ Rug Packaging
✔ Rug Backing
✔ Rug Services
✔ Appraisals
Our Service Area
Renaissance provides cleaning & repair services to the Portland metro area and beyond