Persian Rug Sprouting: The Main Causes, Prevention, & Repair
Persian rugs are some of the most beautiful and elegant pieces of home furnishings that you can own. Although they offer style and class to any space, their fragile nature also makes them prone to damage. One issue, in particular, that is common among Persian rugs is rug sprouting. In this blog, we will discuss what exactly rug sporting is, why it happens, how to prevent it from happening, and ways to repair it if it does.
What is Rug Sprouting?
Rug sprouting is when the fibers of the rug start to protrude from the surface. As the fibers fray and split, they form tufts, or “sprouts,” on top of the rug. It is very common in wool rugs, especially those that have been handmade. Due to the delicate nature of the fibers in these rugs, they can easily come apart and tangle with each other.
Common Causes of Rug Sprouting in Persian Rugs
As one of the biggest threats to Persian rugs, rug sprouting can be caused by a variety of factors. The most common causes include:
Excessive Wear & Tear Over Time
Daily use of the rug, such as stepping on it, can cause the fibers to become worn down and frayed over time. If some popular pathways or areas are walked on more often, these spots may be more prone to sprouting.
Inadequate Cleaning & Maintenance
Without proper cleaning and maintenance, dirt and dust particles can become trapped in the fibers of the rug. As they accumulate, they create more friction between the fibers, which can result in sprouting over time.
Improper Storage or Care
When storing rugs for periods of time, make sure to keep them away from light and humidity. Any exposure to extreme temperatures or moisture can weaken the fibers, making them more susceptible to sprouting.
How to Prevent Persian Rug Sprouting
Fortunately, there are a few steps that you can take to help prevent rug sprouting from occurring.
Regularly Vacuum Entire Rug
Vacuuming is essential in helping keep your rugs clean and free of dust and dirt particles. Doing this regularly will help reduce the risk of sprouting by eliminating the accumulation of debris in the fibers. When using the vacuum, make sure to keep it constantly moving to avoid excessive pressure on a particular area.
Schedule Routine Professional Cleanings
Periodically having your rugs professionally cleaned will help remove any debris trapped in the fibers. The deep cleaning process also helps restore the pile of the rug and maintains its resilience, making it less prone to sprouting.
Rotate Rugs to Change Popular Pathways
Over time, you may notice certain pathways or spots of the rug that are more worn down than others. To avoid this, try to rotate your rugs every few months. This will help distribute any wear and tear that occurs over a larger surface area of the rug instead of just one spot.
How to Repair Persian Rug Sprouting in Persian & Oriental Rugs
If you notice that your Persian rug is beginning to show signs of sprouting, there are ways that you can restore it back to its original glory.
Clean Rug to Remove Dust & Debris Before Repairing
Before attempting any repairs, it is important that you first thoroughly clean the rug. Any dust and debris should be removed from the fibers as they can cause additional damage or make it difficult to perform repairs.
Cut Sprouts from the Rug with Sharp Scissors
Using a pair of sharp scissors, begin to trim the sprouts down to the same level as the rug. Be careful not to cut too close, or you may risk damaging other areas of the rug.
Re-Weaving Frayed Fibers with Needle & Thread
Once all the sprouts have been trimmed, you can re-weave the fibers back into the rug. To do this, you will need a tapestry needle and thread. Using small stitches, knot the ends of the frayed fibers back into the rug. Try to avoid pulling the thread too tight, as it may create an uneven surface. After you have re-weaved the entire sprout, take a damp cloth and gently pat the area. This will help flatten out any bumps and ensure all knots are secured.
Call a Persian Rug Expert to Schedule a Repair Service
It is always recommended that when repairing a Persian rug, you seek the help of an experienced professional. They will be able to provide specialized care for your specific type of rug and ensure that any repair work is done properly.
Contact Persia Oriental Rug Gallery in Shrewsbury, MA for Professional Sprouting Repairs & Re-Weaving Services for Persian Rugs
At Persia Oriental Rug Gallery, our staff specializes in caring for and restoring Persian rugs of all styles, sizes, and shapes. From sprouting repairs to re-weaving services, you can trust us to revive your rug back to pristine condition. In addition, we also offer pick-up and delivery services, so you don’t have to worry about risking further damage to your rug during transportation. To learn more and schedule your repair services, visit our website or give us a call at 508-753-4667!