Flooded Rug Care

How do we care for rugs that have been damaged by flood waters?  The answer may seem counterintuitive, but the first thing we do with a flooded rug is to soak it in a shallow pool.  What purpose does the soaking serve?  A good soaking will help minimize the odor, help remove the dirty water, and any dirt that was embedded in the pile.  The next step after the soaking is to professionally clean the rug with rug shampoo.  Once the rug is thoroughly cleaned and rinsed, the next step is to allow for a thorough and complete drying.  This step is imperative as it will prevent the rug from rotting.  Rugs especially susceptible to rot because of a flood are those made with a combination of wool and cotton such as Sarouk, Heriz, Tabriz rugs.
Of course, the best thing to do is to take steps to avoid a flood in the first place, when possible.   This includes not watering a plant that is resting on a rug.  Small steps can go a long way in preventing damage to a beautiful treasured hand knotted rug.

 --www.traditionalrugrepair.com