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How to Store Rugs Properly: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Store Rugs Properly: A Step-by-Step Guide - Rug the Rock

Rugs are valuable and delicate items that require proper care and maintenance. Whether you want to store them for a long time or transport them to a new location, you need to follow some steps to ensure their safety and durability. In this article, we will show you how to prepare your rugs for storage or transportation, and how to protect them from dirt, pests, moisture and damage.

 

How to protect rugs for storage or transportation?


For various reasons, we may want to fold or store rugs in a warehouse. Learning how to properly store rugs is not a long and difficult process. This guide shows you how to prepare your rugs for storage or transportation.

There are times when we have to move the rug or be forced to store it. In these cases, it is important that we do the folding and folding process correctly to prevent damage and be assured of its health.

If rugs are not properly stored in their place (even when they are twisted and rolled in a storage space), they may lose their shape, attract pests and acquire unwanted odors. To prepare, secure and protect your rug for storage, follow these steps:

  • Clean the rug thoroughly.
  • Protect the rug from moths and other insects.
  • Tighten the rug firmly for storage.
  • Wrap the rug in a protective cloth.
  • Store the rug in a dry and cool environment.
  • Unfold the rug and check it for signs of damage every few months.

For more details on how to complete each step, see below.

 

Step-by-step rug maintenance

 

Clean the rug thoroughly

    To start the process of storing hand-woven rugs, vacuum them well. Dirt, animal dandruff, dust and other fine particles can hide between the fibers of the rug and decompose and damage the fibers when the rug is stored. That is why the long-term rug storage process starts with vacuuming both sides of the rug. It is very important that we turn the rug over and vacuum it as well, we should not skip this step. For some rugs, you need to be more careful not to damage the delicate texture of the rug when using a vacuum cleaner. Put the vacuum on the rug and lift it up and do not move it back and forth.

    The next step is deep cleaning, washing the rug. This process varies slightly depending on the type of fiber used in it. After cleaning, let the rug dry completely. Even a slightly damp rug can cause mold or bad odor that will ruin your rug and affect the environment where it is stored. In general, especially if you have a valuable, sensitive or large rug that is not easy to wet, wash and dry, it is better to leave it to an expert. In this article, we focus on how to prepare a rug for storage. In a separate note, we will discuss the basics of washing rugs.

     

    Protect the rug from moths and other insects

      If you need to store a rug in a basement, parking lot or attic room, you need to take extra care to protect it from moths and insects. Use an insect repellent. Naphthalene has been obsolete for years because of its harm to humans, use dried lavender.

       

      Tighten the rug firmly for storage and roll it

        Never fold the rug for long periods of time! Folding can cause tearing, cracking and other damage. Instead, roll the rug into a uniform cylinder shape. It is important which way you roll the rug, as one side is always more fragile. You should roll your rug so that the pile is inward.

        Effective Rug Rolling Tips

        When rolling a rug, do it evenly and keep it as smooth as possible so that at the end of one side of the cylinder does not protrude from the corners. If you need help keeping it smooth, use a rod or pipe-like thick curtain rod.

         

        Wrap the rug in a breathable protective cloth

          Wrapping a cloth around the rug is helpful. This extra protective layer helps prevent dirt and other things that can damage the delicate fibers of the rug.

          Tips and how to wrap a rug in a cloth

          Finish rolling your rug by wrapping a layer of cotton cloth (at least one and a half times around the rug). For extra protection, secure the cloth layer with cotton or polyester tapes. If you want professional-level protection, wrap the rug in a polyurethane cover. These fabrics are waterproof, light and breathable and create a barrier against moisture and insects. Do not use plastic to wrap the rug, as it prevents the rug from breathing and creates moisture.

           

          Store the rug in a dry and cool environment and away from the ground

            When storing a rug, it is important to keep it in a place away from the ground and from any harmful or sharp elements. Also, make sure nothing else is on top of it. Boxes and other items can cause cracks and loss of shape in the rug. It is very important to store your rug in a cool and dry environment away from direct sunlight. Excessive heat or severe cold can damage the fibers.

             

            Check the rug for signs of damage every few months

            We recommend that you open the rug once a month to make sure there is no evidence of insect infestation. Also, vacuum and dust the storage area and the rug itself to get rid of dust that attracts insects.

            Rug storage tips in warehouse

            To prevent mold problems, use a "fan" and dehumidifier. Block window light with shade or curtain. Regularly vacuum, dust and ventilate the rug To prevent moth infestation, store the rug on a surface away from the ground.

             

            Storing rugs properly is not a difficult task, but it requires some attention and care. By following the steps and tips in this article, you can ensure that your rugs will remain in good condition for a long time. Remember to clean, protect, roll, wrap and store your rugs in a suitable environment, and check them regularly for any signs of damage. If you have any questions or need professional help, do not hesitate to contact us.

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