Certain types of rugs require special care, and before cleaning, it’s important to understand the unique materials and craftsmanship involved. Persian rugs, in particular, are an investment that can last for generations — but only when properly maintained.

Cleaning a Persian rug isn't as simple as cleaning a standard carpet. Specialised techniques are required to protect delicate fibres, preserve vibrant colours, and maintain the structural integrity of your rug. 

A Persian rug is a hand-woven carpet originating from Iran, a region renowned for its centuries-old tradition of rug making. Most are made from wool, silk, or cotton – each of which plays a role in how your rug feels and lasts.

Unlike machine-made rugs, Persian rugs are crafted using hand-knotting techniques, often involving tricky asymmetrical knots that are unique to Persian craftsmanship. This meticulous process results in intricate patterns and high levels of detail – a single rug can take months or even years to complete. 

The high quality and exceptional skill involved contributes to the significant cost of these kinds of rugs. Genuine Persian rugs are considered luxury keepsakes, and can even appreciate in value over time, which is why it’s so important to take exceptional care when cleaning.

Knot N Co has been importing and selling the highest quality handmade rugs in Australia for over 30 years.

We’re passionate about bringing you handcrafted rugs from Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan, India and Turkey – rugs that, with the right care, can last a lifetime.  

Understanding Persian rug materials

Traditional Persian rugs are made from fibres like wool, silk, or cotton. Most commonly, these materials are dyed with natural plant, insect, and vegetable dyes, sourced from pomegranate skins, madder root and indigo leaves.

These natural dyes are responsible for a rich, earthy colour palette, sometimes called a patina. Unlike synthetic dyes, natural dyes are highly sensitive to cleaning products, moisture, and light exposure, which can cause fading or colour bleeding if not handled carefully.

This is why it’s critical to use gentle, pH-balanced cleaning agents and avoid harsh chemicals or excessive moisture. 

How to clean a Persian carpet or rug depends largely on what materials make up your rug.

  • Wool is the most common material, and is also the most durable – wool rugs are frequently used for high-traffic areas. Avoid excessive moisture and harsh detergents, as these can strip the protective lanolin coating. Instead, use a mild wool-friendly detergent and blot stains gently to avoid pushing them deeper into the fibres. 

  • Silk rugs are finer, more delicate, and prone to watermarks, shrinkage, and colour loss if exposed to excessive moisture or harsh cleaning agents. Silk rugs are typically reserved for low-traffic areas or as decorative pieces, and cleaning requires extreme care, and, on occasion, the help of a professional. If attempting to clean silk at home, use a pH-neutral cleaning solution specifically designed for silk.  

  • The foundation (the warp and weft) is most often made from cotton. Cotton foundations are strong but likely to absorb moisture, which can make your rug vulnerable to mould if exposed to prolonged dampness. For this reason, it’s essential to thoroughly dry a Persian rug after cleaning. 

The best way to clean a Persian rug will always depend on the material, so make sure you know what you’re working with before you get started.  

Pre-cleaning : Assessing your rug

Before cleaning a Persian rug, take a good look at your rug, and make some determinations.

This ensures not only that you clean the rug as best as you can, but much more importantly, that you don’t accidentally do any damage.  

Before you grab any cleaning products, you should know :

1. The reason for cleaning 

Is this a routine clean, or has there been a specific spill? Inspect your rug for visible dirt, stains, or damage, as well as loose threads.

If there has been a spill, it helps to know what kind, as this can impact the cleaning process. Here’s how to handle some common spills: 

  • For food and drink spills, use a blotting technique with a clean cloth to soak up the liquid. Avoid rubbing, as this can push the stain deeper into the fibres. 
  • For oil or grease spills, use a dry-cleaning solvent or cornflour to absorb the oil before vacuuming and cleaning. 
  • For pet accidents, use an enzyme-based cleaner to neutralise odours and bacteria. Blot the area and avoid excess moisture. 
  • Ink and paint stains are trickiest – blot the spill immediately, and contact a professional if it’s already dried. 

2. The age of your rug 

Wondering how clean an antique Persian rug?

If your rug is advanced in age, it’s likely to be far more delicate than a new rug. In fact, a rug is considered an antique once it is 100 years old. 

At this point, you should seriously consider consulting a professional rug cleaner as ruining a 100-year-old Persian rug would be a tough pill to swallow.

3. The material of your rug 

Most Persian rugs are made from silk or wool – two very different materials that necessitate different kinds of care.  As we’ve discussed, how to clean a wool Persian rug differs greatly from how to clean a silk Persian rug.

Wool rugs are generally hardier, while silk responds best to gentler dry cleaning methods. It’s recommended to consult a professional if you’ve acquired a stain on your silk Persian rug.

4. Check for cleaning instructions 

The manufacturers know best how to clean their product, so check for any instructions that might have come with the rug, as this is likely to contain valuable dos and don’ts. 

The cleaning process

Once you know what kind of rug you’re dealing with, you can start cleaning.  

Here’s a step-by-step guide for cleaning a Persian rug at home :


Step One 

Start by thoroughly vacuuming your rug to remove dust, dirt, or debris. Make sure to go over both sides, especially the back, as dust can settle there too. 


Step Two 

To clean a Persian rug by hand, gently blot (but don’t rub) stains with a clean cloth. Use a mild detergent mixed with water, or a store-bought stain remover specifically designed for your rug's material. Always test first on a small, hidden area (like a corner that sits under the couch) to make sure it doesn’t damage the fabric or colour.


Step Three 

For a deeper clean, use a rug shampoo or a mild detergent diluted in water – always ensuring the pH is low, and the product is intended for your rug’s material. Use a soft brush, like a sponge, to gently scrub the rug, moving in the direction of the fibres.

Be careful not to oversaturate it – too much water can weaken or distort the fibres, or even cause colour bleeding. 

Post cleaning care 

Once cleaned, the key is to let your rug dry completely, and quickly. Excess moisture trapped in the rug is a perfect opportunity for mould and mildew.

Lay it flat in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources that could cause the fabric to fade or shrink.  

When the rug is dry, use a soft-bristled brush to restore the pile – this helps it look fresh and fluffy again. 

Finally, the best method for Persian rug cleaning is to not get it dirty in the first place. To reduce the need for cleaning, you should :

  • Adopt a shoes-off policy in the house – this prevents dirt, mud, and bacteria from being walked over the rug. 
  • Vacuum your rug weekly, to prevent buildup of crumbs, dust and debris – the cleaner you keep it between deep cleans, the less intense the cleans and the less wear and tear your rug will endure.  
  • Keep an eye out for stains and treat them quickly, before they set in. 
  • Rotate area rugs every few months so one section doesn't bear the brunt of all the traffic and sun fading.  
  • Place a non-slip rug pad underneath your rug – this reduces movement, and prevents the fibres from being crushed by foot traffic or heavy furniture. 

Solutions for stains, smells, and common concerns

1. Getting stains out 

Don’t rub or scrub stains – too much force can damage the delicate fabric. In most cases, you should use a rag or sponge to blot away spots.   

Heat can lift stains, but it must be applied carefully.  Place a towel over the stain and then set a hot iron on top of it for about ten seconds.

Next, lift up your iron and blot up as much moisture as possible with another towel. Then repeat this process until all the stains have been removed.

2. Cleaning a smelly Persian rug 

A smelly rug doesn’t always require deep cleaning.  

In fact, you’d be surprised by how much a good vacuum can help with odour. If vacuuming doesn’t work, try :

  • Airing the rug out on a railing or sturdy support. A day of fresh air can naturally release trapped odours.  
  • Using baking soda as a natural deodoriser – sprinkle a layer of baking soda over the rug, leaving for 12-24 hours before vacuuming. You can repeat as needed.

3. Can I put a Persian rug in the washing machine? 

No, you should never put your Persian rug in a washing machine. This can cause premature wear and tear.

Steam cleaners are also a no go, as high temperatures can damage the fabric. Instead, use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment, and if the situation calls for a deep clean, follow the instructions above.  

4. What products can I use to clean a Persian rug? 

To clean a Persian rug, use gentle methods and avoid harsh chemicals. The exact products depend on your rug’s material, and the kind of cleaning you’re doing.  

  • For everyday cleaning, vacuum without a beater bar or use a soft-bristle broom.  
  • For spills, blot with a white cloth, water, or a mild dish soap solution.  
  • White vinegar and baking soda can help with stains and odours.  
  • For deep cleaning, use wool-safe (or silk, if needed) shampoos or enzyme cleaners for pet stains.  

In all cases, avoid bleach, harsh detergents, ammonia, steam cleaners, and chemical dry-cleaning products. For tough stains, dye bleeding, or antique rugs, it's best to seek professional cleaning services.

5. How much does it cost to clean a Persian rug? 

Generally, professional rug cleaning services in Sydney charge between $20 to $75. However, the cost of cleaning a Persian rug varies based on the rug's size, material, age, and condition.  

Factors influencing cost :

  • Size : Larger rugs incur higher cleaning costs. For example, cleaning an 8x10-foot rug may cost up to $240.  
  • Material : Delicate materials like silk require specialised cleaning methods, potentially increasing the price.  
  • Condition : Older or heavily soiled rugs may need more intensive cleaning, affecting the overall cost. 

Knot N Co : the rug experts 

For generations, our families' ancestors have been making Persian rugs. Today, we love to bring this tradition to Australian homes. 

Your Persian rug is a family heirloom, and a valuable part of your home. For that reason alone, it’s highly recommended to consider professional cleaning.

Not only does this ensure the best result, but it keeps your rug safe so that it can be enjoyed for generations to come.