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Storing Wool & Silk Rugs – Timely Tips From The Professionals
Technology 11 years ago No Comments

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storing_rugs-title.gifcontributed by The Folks at Fiber-Seal

Everyone knows that certain insects damage articles made of the protein-based fibers of wool and silk by using them as a food source. Clothing is a very common “prey” for these fiber-chomping critters, primarily because it is often kept in dark, little-disturbed areas like closets and storage containers. Equally appealing to certain hungry moths and beetles (actually, the larvae of these insects) are the various types of wool and silk rugs, which have become such common accessories in today’s interiors. The proper protection and storage of these rugs is essential to their longevity, so before you or your clients put any in storage, understand the simple process to preserve and guard against an intrusive insect invasion.


An Ounce Of Prevention

Follow these simple steps to help assure trouble-free storage for rugs.

Clean | Any rug about to be stored should be thoroughly cleaned. There is evidence that dirty fibers are much more attractive to insect pests. Also, ground-in soils can cause significant damage if left in a rug over long periods of time.

storing_rugs-1.jpgTreat | It is a good idea to make rugs less attractive to pests before they are stored. Most rug care professionals recommend treatments that cause rug fibers to be “less palatable” to insect larvae, lessening the chances of damage.

Roll | Folding rugs is sometimes done for short-term storage, but never for longer periods. Folding causes stress on the foundation yarns and can lead to weakening of these critical elements. Rugs should be rolled face side in and starting at the bottom. When you run your hand over the rug with the direction of the nap, it will take you to the bottom. Roll the rug from this end.

Wrap | While it’s very commonly available, plastic is not appropriate for storing wool rugs. Wool can sometimes “sweat” during storage, releasing moisture that is stored in the fiber. This moisture needs to be able to dissipate, so a barrier that is semi- permeable is the best alternative. Heavy Kraft paper is suitable for short-term needs, but Tyvek® is a stronger – yet still breathable – wrapping material. Clear wrapping tape works well to seal the loose edges.

Store | A clean, dry storage area is important. While not always possible, climate- controlled storage prevents extremes in temperature and humidity. Flooding and other moisture problems can be avoided by storing rugs on an elevated surface. Also, stacking heavy items on top of rugs should be avoided.

storing_rugs-2.jpgInspect | Rugs that are clean, properly wrapped and stored are in good shape, but must still be monitored. If possible, rugs should be visually checked at least annually to make sure the wrapping is secure and that there are no obvious signs of problems.

Rugs On The Floor Need Special Care, Too

Rugs that are being stored need detailed procedures to keep them safe from pests, but so do rugs which are in use. Good housekeeping is important in preventing carpet beetle and clothes moth problems. Your vacuum cleaner is your best pest management tool.

Periodically clean areas of a home that may harbor clothes moths to prevent or control infestation. Those areas include many seldom-cleaned spots, such as:

under heavy pieces of furniture

under the edges of rugs

along baseboards and in cracks where hair and debris accumulate

closets, especially those in which woolens and furs are kept

heaters, the areas behind them, and vents


Remember to get rugs cleaned on a regular basis. Those that receive light to moderate traffic should be cleaned at least every 18-24 months. If there is heavy traffic, the recommendation is at least once a year.

They Are There To Help

fiber-seal-logo.jpg Part of their job at Fiber-Seal is to stay in touch with trends in the fabric and carpet industries. Because fibers and fabrics are ever-changing, it’s even more important to work with professionals who know the industry and can offer the best possible aftercare in both residential and commercial interiors.

Got a question about a fabric or floor covering” They are happy to answer it for you. Trust Fiber-Seal to provide the latest information about elegant interior textiles and their care. This article first appeared in Fiber-Seal System’s FIBERFAX Volume Twenty-Two | Number Two. Copyright © 2012 by Fiber-Seal Systems. All rights reserved.