Wool carpets have outstanding easycare properties. Flame resistance, stain resistance and resiliency are characteristics inherent of wool and are not achievable by chemical treatments. The high moisture content of wool fibers, along with its protein constituents, provide wool carpets with excellent natural flame resistance. Wool fibers do not support combustion- it is difficult to ignite and is self-extinguishable. The surface of a wool fiber is covered by a thin protective membrane which allows wool the ability to shed water. This membrane prevents water from readily penetrating the individual wool fibers.
Viscose is popular for a number of reasons, most importantly its luxurious look and feel yet affordable price. Viscose is versatile and blends easily with other fibres. It is easily dyed and retains vivid colours particularly well. It is renowned for its silk like lustre, appealing drape and superior softness to cotton.
We recommend viscose for light traffic areas as it does absorb moisture – body oils and water. This can discolour and weaken the fabric and result in marking.
Fabricated by pushing surface yarns through a previously constructed sheet of primary backing to which the secondary back is laminated. The smooth classic finish often known is sometimes called “velour” or “velvet” pile, ideal for bringing a luxurious and sensual feel to rooms. The tops of the loops of wool are cut and the yarn is twisted and set to produce tufts of yarn that stand upright and produce a smooth, even surface.
Viscose rugs are constructed of wood cellulose fibers, which absorb moisture easily, therefore cleaning is not advised.
If cleaning should become necessary, dry cleaning is preferable. However, always check with the dry cleaner since some harsh chemicals may cause discoloration to the fibers.
Do not spot clean with water as cellulose fibers will turn yellow or discolor when wet and may stain after cleaning.
Lighter colors are more susceptible to staining and large, solid areas will show staining more easily.
Avoid placing viscose rugs in high-traffic areas to minimize the need for cleaning.
1. Use the handheld attachment to vacuum your rug. High powered vacuums can pull threads out of the back of tugs and cause sprouts.
2. Turn the beater bar off on your vacuum, or if it can not be turned off have it on the highest setting. Beater bar can pull fibers from the face of the rug or they can cause the face of your rug to fuzz
3. Carefully place your vacuum on the edge of the rug. The serging on the edges of rugs are very sensitive. Running the vacuum over the edges can cause the serging to deteriorate and fibers can come loose around the edges.
4. Use the handheld attachment to clean edges.
5. Brooms and sweepers are a great, gentle way to clean your rug. Canister vacuums without beater bars are the most effective.
Special notes:
Color
No two rugs are the same. Slight color variations are common for handmade rugs, as dye lots may change over a period of time.
Shedding
All wool rugs will shed. Shedding will subside over time, depending on traffic and wear. It typically takes 20-25 vacuums, at a minimum, to curtail shedding. Some will shed for the lifetime of the rug.
Creases
If your rug has been rolled or folded for shipping, it may include creases. Creases should disappear within a week or two when the rug is laid out flat. Reverse rolling the rug overnight will help.
Sprouts
Loose fibers, or sprouts, are a normal part of the break-in process of handmade rugs. To remove sprouts, use a small pair of scissors to snip them off even with the pile. Do not pull the fiber out, as this can cause a deterioration of the backing.
Fading
If exposed to direct sunlight, rug colors typically fade over time, even if they are fade resistant.
Wear
As a general rule, rugs of all materials and constructions should be rotated every 3-6 months to balance color and evenly distribute wear.