How To Store An Oriental Rug

When storing a handmade oriental rug, we recommend rolling it up (see our article on How To Roll A Rug), and wrapping it in a tough synthetic paper like "Tyvek"® or construction paper. Don't use newspaper or common brown wrapping paper. These materials are not chemically stable (they are usually quite acidic), and do not provide the protection from insects or moisture the stored rug needs. Make sure the rug is completely dry. Don't use moth balls or flakes--these materials have little repellent effect, and the odor they impart to the rug can be difficult to remove.

Tips For Storage

• Store your rug in a cool, dry place, such as a closet.
• Store your rug in a clean dark place, as direct sunlight over a long period of time can fade a rug.
• Store your rug out of reach of rodents. 
• Remove your rug and shake it out every so often and inspect it. You may like to keep it out for awhile to air it out. When folding it and re-roll it again, do so in a different way (not along the exact same creases) so that it doesn't retain the same "memory shape."

When your rug has been stored for a long period of time, and you are ready to have it out again, you may consider getting it professionally cleaned, which will be like a spa for the fibers of your rug. Your rug will come back to you feeling soft, colors brightened, and clean (see Our Services).

See all our Rug Care recommendations!