Tips on How to Care for Navajo Rugs from Bair's Indian Trading Co.

~ How to Care for & Protect Navajo Weavings ~
Additional important information will continue to be added to this section regarding
care, recommended methods of mounting and displaying Navajo weavings, and
the identification and prevention of moths, carpet beetles and other insects.

1.	If your rug is on the floor, use a carpet cushion. There is no question that a carpet pad prolongs the life of a rug. In most cases, the best is plastic foam that will not migrate color to the rug or to the floor and will offer good wear protection. Do not use a rubber, felt or waffle pad.
2.	Flip the rug over periodically so there will be even distribution of fading and wear on both sides
3.	Have your rugs treated for moths. Inspect the rugs periodically for insect damage.
4.	Vacuum moderately using a vacuum without the "beater bar."
5.	Clean spills immediately. The quicker the cleanup, the less likely that your rug will sustain permanent staining.
6.	House train your dog. Urine stains usually cannot be removed and Fido can also do damage by chewing.
7.	Do not allow the rug to get wet. If it does get wet, make sure that it dries in the shortest possible time. A "wet vacuum" and a fan can help.
8.	Do not allow any prolonged moisture to penetrate the carpet. An example would be a flower pot set on the rug, thereby causing dry rot or mildew damage.
9.	Have your rugs cleaned when noticeably dirty and only by a specialist with a thorough knowledge of Navajo rugs. Do not have the rugs "dry-cleaned", "steam cleaned" or cleaned by automated means.
10.	Have any fraying or damage repaired immediately. If a damaged area is allowed to continue fraying, it can greatly decrease the beauty and value of your rug. Remember that quality restoration can save many dollars in future repair costs and also serves to retain the beauty and value of your Navajo rug. Call or e-mail us with your questions.

*The 10 Rules for Maintaining Your Navajo Rug listed above was written by James & Ursula Stilley
who specialize in the repair and restoration of Navajo textiles. It is copyrighted by their company
Oriental Rug Repair and is reprinted here with their permission. We recommend their service.
Visit their websiteby going to our Link page.

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