Posted on February 5, 2020 by Behnam Rugs

Costly Rug Storage Mistakes

Storing your rug is generally a simple process. However, there are some things you should know and do when putting a fine rug in storage to ensure its longevity in the years to come.

IMPROPER RUG STORAGE WILL LEAD TO COSTLY DAMAGE.

The first mistake is not cleaning your rug before storing it. If you don’t have your rug professionally cleaned before storing it, you are likely storing a rug covered in dirt, dander, and stains that will attract moths and mice. In addition, the wool fibers in your rug contain an oil which keeps the fibers flexible. A dirty rug prevents oxygen from reaching the oil, resulting in a stiff and delicious rug for moths.

At the very least, vacuum the rug extensively without using the beater brush extension. Vacuum the front and back of the rug to remove all dirt particles and possible moths and eggs.

The next mistake is not wrapping your rug in cotton fabric or a piece of muslin. An unwrapped rug will become mice and moth fodder. Make sure to completely cover your rug, including the ends, so that mice cannot nest inside your rug.

Do not store your rug in a material that doesn’t breathe such as a plastic tarp or piece of paper, which moths love to eat. Your rug needs oxygen.

Make sure to roll your rug in the direction of the grain to minimize stress. You can determine this by feeling with your hand.

In addition, you should be storing your rug horizontally to protect the rug’s shape and on top of something so that it is not touching the floor. This prevents water damage and makes it harder for rodents and pests to get to your rug. Never fold your rug. This can lead to creases that don’t go away.

Another mistake is storing a wet rug. This will result in mold and eventual rotting of the rug fibers. So will storing a rug in a space with high humidity like a basement.

Make sure that the storage facility you select maintains a constant temperature. Fluctuations in temperature can cause damage. Choose a climate controlled storage unit.

Rugs do best in spaces that are dry and cool. If you choose, you may set moth and mice traps near the rug. Air circulation around the rug is important to prevent nesting.

Thoroughly clean the storage unit or space you have chosen to store the rug. Don’t leave any yummy dirt or cracks that mice could enter through.

Not checking on your rug every six months or so is the next mistake. You need to routinely check on your rug to make sure moths and carpet beetles aren’t making a meal of your rug. While you’re there, clean the space the rug is in and the rug itself, as dust has likely accumulated.

Choose an area with little to no sunlight. Direct light can fade the rug’s beautiful colors.

Finally, have your rug appraised before storing it. Behnam Rugs can do this for you. Take a photograph and get insurance based on the appraisal.

All these tips will make your rug last longer and prevent harm to it.

If you aren’t sure where to store your rug, trust the experts at Behnam Rugs. The storage facility at our 18000 Preston Road showroom provides the optimal conditions for your storing rug, as they are required to ensure the longevity of the rugs we display and sell. Call us at 972-733-0400 to discuss storing your rugs.