Keeping Rug Fringe Clean
May 8, 2024 12:10:53pm
Fringe can add visual interest and charm to a good area rug. However, when the fringe becomes discolored, soiled, or matted, it can detract from your rug’s overall appeal. Use our pro tips to keep your rug’s fringe clean and orderly.
In machine-woven rugs, the fringe is typically added as a separate component, either sewn or glued onto the rug’s edges as a final step. In hand-woven rugs, however, including high quality Persian and Oriental wool or silk rugs, the fringe is an integral part of the rug’s foundation. During the weaving process, the rug’s pile knots are intricately tied or twisted onto these foundation fibers, known as warp fibers. As a result, the fringe consists of small, exposed remnants of these foundation warps. While the presence of fringe itself does not significantly impact the value of the rug, if the fringe unravels, deteriorates, or is cut off, it can lead to the separation and unraveling of the pile knots, thereby affecting the overall value and integrity – and aesthetic – of the rug.
Rug Fringe Cleaning Tips:
- Avoid using a vacuum cleaner with a beater bar, as this can cause tangling and damage to the fringe, especially on longer fringes. Instead, gently brush the fringe lengthwise with a soft-bristled brush to loosen and remove excess dust and soil. If you are compelled to use a vacuum on the rug’s fringe, first ensure the beater bar is completely raised, and then push the vacuum along the face of the rug, then onto the fringe fibers, and then onto the flooring in front of the rug; do not pull the vacuum straight back, as this can entangle the fringe fibers.
- When fringe cleaning requires more than brushing, it’s best to enlist the expertise of good local professional rug cleaners. Attempting DIY rug cleaning can sometimes do more harm than good, particularly if harsh cleaners or bleach are used, which can damage the delicate fibers of Persian and Oriental rugs. For pristine and bright fringe, entrust your rug to the care of professional rug cleaning experts. These professionals have the knowledge, tools, and techniques to clean your rug thoroughly from top to bottom, including the fringe.
Finding a reputable rug cleaning company is easy if you live in Northeast Florida– RugPro Oriental Rug Cleaning is the best rug cleaning service Jacksonville FL homeowners trust with their high quality wool and silk area rugs. We remain the premier choice for rug owners in Atlantic Beach, Ortega, San Marco, Riverside, and throughout the Jacksonville area. Our team of highly trained, skilled, and experienced rug cleaning technicians can deep clean your rug, from dusting, to submersion in our rug bath, to fringe brightening, with results you’ll love.
