The Rug Library

For older or fragile rugs, the Institute of Conservation suggests a small hand-held vacuum used in the direction of the pile, with a brushless attachment and avoiding fringes.

Dust and grit left embedded in rug pile attract insects and can become 'cemented' into the carpet if not removed, according to the Institute of Conservation.

Wool felts when heat, moisture and agitation make its scaly fibres hook together, which is why wool rugs should not be scrubbed hard with hot water.

The Canadian Conservation Institute recommends vacuuming rugs regularly with a plain vacuum head (not a power head) at low suction, moving slowly, and also vacuuming the back, the underlay and the floor beneath.

For fragile rugs, conservators vacuum through a protective screen, adjusting suction so dirt lifts out without the textile itself being drawn up.

Upright vacuum cleaners and power heads with beater bars are considered inappropriate for cleaning museum textiles, and HEPA-filtered vacuums at reduced suction are preferred.

Rotating a rug from time to time helps it wear more evenly, and the underlay and rug should be checked routinely for signs of damage.

The Carpet and Rug Institute advises blotting spills with a clean white cloth or paper towel and working cleaning solution from the edge of a spot towards the centre, rather than scrubbing.

Scrubbing or brushing a spill can fray fibres and change the texture of carpet pile, which is why rug-care guidance stresses blotting instead.

Potted plants, especially clay pots that transmit moisture, are a common cause of hidden damp, mildew and rot in the rug beneath them.

The Carpet and Rug Institute advises scooping up semi-solid spills with a spoon, vacuuming up dried solid bits, and acting quickly on any spill.