Carpet Care Guide
A well-cared-for carpet lasts 30–50+ years. This guide covers everything from daily maintenance to monsoon-specific care for Indian homes.
Daily & Weekly Care
- Vacuum weekly using suction-only mode. Avoid the rotating beater bar — it can damage hand-knotted wool fibers.
- Use a soft brush attachment for the front and back of the carpet edges.
- Rotate the carpet 180° every 6 months to even out sun-fade and foot-traffic wear.
- Use a quality non-slip rug pad on tile/marble/wood floors — adds cushioning, prevents slipping, and extends carpet life by ~30%.
Spill & Stain Removal
- Water-based spills (juice, tea, coffee): blot, then dab with cold water + mild dish soap. Repeat until clean.
- Oil-based spills (ghee, butter, curry): blot, sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch, leave 30 mins, then vacuum. Follow with mild detergent if residue.
- Wine, beetroot, turmeric: blot, then apply a 1:1 white vinegar + cold water mix. Test on a hidden corner first.
- Pet accidents: blot urine immediately, then use enzyme-based cleaner (NOT ammonia — smells like urine to pets, attracts re-marking).
Monsoon Care (Critical for Indian Homes)
- Vacuum twice weekly during monsoon to prevent dust-mite buildup.
- If the carpet feels damp, place it in a well-ventilated area with a fan blowing across it.
- Sun-air the carpet on a dry, breezy morning once or twice during the season. Don't leave in direct unfiltered sun for hours — UV fades natural dyes.
- Avoid placing carpets directly on damp floors after mopping. Wait until the floor is fully dry.
- Watch for any musty smell — early sign of trapped moisture. Air-dry immediately.
Material-Specific Care
Wool (most popular)
Naturally stain-resistant due to lanolin coating. Vacuum weekly, sun-air twice a year. Professional dry-cleaning every 2–3 years preserves the pile.
Silk
Most delicate. Vacuum on lowest suction setting only. Avoid moisture exposure. Professional cleaning by silk-rug specialists every 3–5 years. Best for low-traffic accent zones, not main walkways.
Jute, Sisal, Natural Fiber
Vacuum often (gathers dust quickly). Avoid water — natural fibers can stain when wet. Spot-clean only with dry methods (baking soda for odors).
Cotton (Dhurries)
Lighter and more breathable. Smaller dhurries can be machine-washed on gentle cycle (cold water). Larger ones: vacuum + spot-clean.
Synthetic (Polypropylene)
Most stain-resistant of all materials. Can handle stronger cleaners. Hose-rinse outdoors for deep cleaning. Air-dry completely before re-laying.
Sunlight & Heat
UV fades natural plant dyes (madder, indigo, walnut). Use sheer curtains in rooms with bright direct sunlight. Don't place carpets directly under heaters or air-conditioner drip zones.
Long-Term Storage
- Clean and fully dry the carpet first.
- Roll (don't fold) with the pile facing inward.
- Wrap in breathable cotton or muslin (NOT plastic — traps moisture).
- Store in a cool, dry place. Add naphthalene balls or cedar blocks to deter moths.
- Re-air every 6 months.
When to Call a Professional
- Stains older than 24 hours.
- Annual deep clean for hand-knotted wool (every 2–3 years).
- Silk carpets (every 3–5 years).
- Strong odors that don't lift after airing.
- Visible moth activity or damaged fringes.
Have a stain emergency or care question? Contact our care experts — we're happy to help.