Silk Rug Cleaning

Silk rugs must be cleaned cold, gently and by hand — never with steam, hot water or scrubbing, which permanently weaken the fibres. Specialists use pH-balanced solutions, colour-fastness testing and controlled drying so the silk is never left wet or stretched. The safest option is off-site cleaning by an experienced rug specialist, not in-home or DIY methods.

Real silk feels warm when rubbed, has a colour-shifting sheen, and on hand-knotted rugs the fringe is part of the rug itself. Synthetic "art silk" (viscose/rayon) feels cool, shows fold lines and crushes easily. The most reliable check is a professional fibre identification — vital because real silk and viscose are cleaned very differently.

Clean a viscose (art silk) rug with as little moisture as possible. Vacuum gently with suction only, blot spills immediately with a dry white cloth, and never soak, scrub or steam it — water makes viscose fibres swell, weaken and turn brown. For a true deep clean, use a specialist who cleans these delicate rugs with low-moisture methods and controlled drying.

Silk rugs are known for their fine fibres, intricate designs, and natural sheen. Because silk threads are extremely thin, they allow for highly detailed patterns and a luxurious appearance that is often not possible with other materials.

Yes, silk rugs are more delicate than wool or synthetic rugs. The fibres are fine and sensitive to moisture, harsh chemicals, and heavy foot traffic, which is why careful maintenance and professional cleaning are recommended.

Silk fibres can absorb liquids quickly, which means spills may cause stains if not treated promptly. Professional stain removal methods help protect the fibres while removing the stain safely.

Most silk rugs should be professionally cleaned every 1–2 years, depending on foot traffic and household conditions. Regular professional cleaning helps preserve the rug's colour, shine, and fibre strength.

We have a high success rate in treating stains on silk. However, time is critical. Silk is very absorbent, and the acidic nature of spills like wine or pet urine can cause permanent dye damage if not treated quickly by a professional. It is vital that you do not use household spot cleaners, as they can set the stain or damage the fibres. Blot the spill gently and call us immediately.

Yes. We are experts in cleaning blended fibre rugs. The cleaning process for a silk and wool blend is different from pure silk. Our initial inspection allows us to identify the fibre composition and apply the correct, safe cleaning methodology for that specific blend.

On the contrary. Our specialised process removes the abrasive dirt and residue that can make fibres feel stiff. We restore the natural suppleness and soft, velvety texture of the silk, often leaving it feeling softer than before.

Standard carpet cleaners use hot water, high pressure, and alkaline chemicals—all of which are disastrous for silk rugs. Our entire service is built around delicate cleaning methods: cold water, pH-neutral solutions, hand-washing, and controlled drying. It's a completely different, specialist approach.

Absolutely. Our professional team handles your rug with the utmost care from the moment we collect it to the moment we return it. Your valuable piece is fully insured while in our possession and is carefully rolled and wrapped for transport.