We test all rugs for color fast dyes and if the dyes are not stable, then we stabilize the dyes in a special solution. The rug is then pretreated and washed using a mild shampoo and lots of water. The rug is then given an initial rinse and rolled up and placed in our centrifuge wringer where the dirty water is forced out and fresh water is introduced for a final rinse.
Each rug is inspected for pre-existing conditions. The inspection takes place at our shop. We look for conditions that can be covered up with soils such as dye variations (abrash), staining, prior dye bleeding, wear and white knots. We will discuss any areas of concern with you.
After the pre-wash inspection is complete, the first step is dusting. A wool rug may hold pounds of dry dirt that is not visible to the eye. Wool fibers have fish scale type pockets which hold many times their weight in soil, dander, mites and grit. This is not just “dirt” but bacteria, germs, oils and many other contaminates tracked in by your feet.
Because rugs are all different we chose the correct drying method for each. This could be laid flat face up or down or hanging in our drying chamber where the temperature and humidity is monitored and controlled. Most rugs can be expected to shrink up to 5% during it’s first washing.
The fringes which are usually part of the cotton warp fibers and the foundation of the rug are very absorbent and shows soils much more than wool. The fringe needs more work to get clean. They are scrubbed during the wash process but occasionally need more detailing after the rug is removed from the centrifuge wringer. Any other spot and stain treatment is done now and after we determine the rug is 100% dry we groom the fibers leaving a very soft hand or feel.
