With Kilims in particular, it’s important to be gentle with these kinds of weaves. Here are some tips to help care for Kilim and flatweave rugs as best as you can:
Give it a shake
Every few weeks, shake off your Kilim in the open to get rid of surface debris, just like any rug. This is very helpful in maintaining the air quality of the room, and it’s a good opportunity to rotate your piece.
Vacuuming
You can vacuum clean flatweaves on both sides at least twice a week, so long as it’s on a bare floor setting/no suction. This means less unnecessary tugging at the finer-woven fibres. Alternatively, you can smear baking soda on the rug and let it stand for 15 minutes and then vacuum clean it gently on both sides. This particular method both removes loose particles and minimises odours over time like any rug.
Washing
If you intend on washing your Kilim at home, gently broom both sides first. Then, mix a gentle cleanser with water. Take a soft brush, dip it in this solution and gently rub it in horizontal and vertical directions. (Here you want to use just enough water to wash off the cleanser, since you don’t want to soak your Kilim.) When finished put it on a flat surface and leave it to dry.
Spills and stains
For spot removal, blot the patch with a clean towel, avoiding aggressive scrubbing. Remember to blot towards the centre to avoid spreading. Now, place a container under the Kilim, pass clean water through the stained area and collect in the container. You can repeat until the desired effects are achieved. For more persistent stains a professional cleaning is recommended.
Preventative care is always the best way to care for handmade rugs and textiles before, and after, cleaning needs arise.
