Answers to 7 Essential Oriental Rug Cleaning Questions

Matt Agnini • May 15, 2025

Your oriental rug isn’t just a floor covering—it’s a piece of art, a family heirloom, and in many cases, a serious investment. Whether it was passed down through generations or purchased to complete your home’s aesthetic, it deserves the kind of care that keeps it looking beautiful for years to come.


Oriental rugs require more than a quick vacuum or a splash of spot cleaner. But how do you properly clean something so intricate and delicate? That’s just one of many questions you need to ask if you’re a rug owner in Viera or Titusville. While seeking the answers to essential questions can be daunting, you’ve had the good fortune of finding this blog post from the professional rug cleaners here at Chem-Dry Space Coast. We have the answers to the 7 most essential oriental rug cleaning questions, and we’re sharing them with you today.

1. What is the correct frequency for oriental rug cleaning?


There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here—it depends on your household. High foot traffic, pets, children, and even whether someone smokes indoors can all affect how dirty your rug gets.


That said, a good rule of thumb is to professionally clean your oriental rug once a year. This annual refresh helps remove embedded dust and other non-living allergens while extending the life of your rug’s fibers and colors.

2. Can I steam clean my oriental rug?


Short answer: Please don’t.


While steam cleaning may work for some synthetic carpets, the high heat and moisture can be disastrous for oriental rugs. Natural fibers like wool and silk don’t respond well to heat—they can shrink, warp, or suffer color bleeding. Steam can also break down the structure of delicate hand-knotted weaves.

3. Can I power wash my oriental rug?


We get it—power washing sounds like a quick (and really fun) way to blast out dirt. But it’s way too aggressive for the intricate weaves of oriental rugs. High-pressure streams can unravel threads, damage the fringe, and leave your rug looking worse than when you started.

4. Can I hose down my oriental rug?


Hosing might seem gentle enough, but soaking a rug is a recipe for disaster. When a rug becomes overly saturated, it can trap moisture deep in the fibers, creating the perfect environment for mold and mildew. That musty smell? That’s your rug crying for help.

*Fun fact: Chem-Dry Space Coast uses low-moisture rug cleaning methods that dry fast and minimize the risk of mold and mildew growth.

5. Can I use baking soda to clean my oriental rug?


Baking soda is a common DIY cleaner, but it’s not rug-friendly. Its gritty texture can act like sandpaper on soft fibers, causing wear and weakening over time. Plus, removing every last bit of baking soda from a thick rug can be nearly impossible.

6. How should I vacuum my oriental rug?


Vacuuming is important—but technique matters.

  • Avoid the fringes. They’re delicate and can easily get caught in the vacuum, leading to breakage.
  • Vacuum both sides. Dirt and grit can settle at the base of the rug, so flipping it over for an occasional backside vacuuming helps remove deeper debris.
  • Be consistent. Regular vacuuming helps prevent buildup that causes premature wear.

7. How should I clean my hand-knotted Persian rug?


Persian rugs are often hand-knotted masterpieces made from natural dyes and delicate materials. These treasures require specialized knowledge and handling.


At Chem-Dry Space Coast, we know how to effectively clean these rugs using methods that protect the structure, preserve the colors, and leave the rug looking vibrant without risk of dye bleeding or fraying.

Trust Your Oriental Rugs to Expert Care


When it comes to cleaning oriental rugs, the most effective approach is to trust the professionals. DIY methods might seem convenient, but they often cause more harm than good.


At Chem-Dry Space Coast, we specialize in cleaning oriental rugs with care, precision, and deep expertise. Whether you live in Viera, Titusville, or anywhere along the Space Coast, we’re here to give your rugs the treatment they deserve.


Ready to restore the beauty of your oriental rug? Call Chem-Dry Space Coast today at (321) 483-3223 to schedule a cleaning or get more information!

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