A well-crafted rug is more than décor - it’s craftsmanship in fibre and weave, a lasting investment that enriches your home. At Kaleen, we believe respect for that investment extends beyond the day it arrives. How you store your rug, whether temporarily during a move or long-term off-season, can impact its appearance, texture, and longevity, so, preserving it begins with mindful maintenance.

The Essentials of Proper Storage

Before storing, the rug should be clean, dry and laid flat. All rugs are unique and routine maintenance is vital for long-term appearance retention.

·        Clean first: Remove loose debris, vacuum using a suction-only canister (avoid beater bars that can pull fibres). Spot-clean minor stains with mild dish soap and lukewarm water for wool rugs.

·        Roll, don’t fold: Folding can crease and weaken fibres; rolling tightly with the pile facing inward helps maintain shape, structure and color.

·        Wrap appropriately: Use breathable cotton or muslin fabric rather than plastic to allow air circulation and prevent moisture build-up.

·        Store flat and elevated: Place the roll on a clean, flat surface off the floor, away from heavy items that could compress the pile.

·        Check periodically: Even when in storage, rugs should be unrolled and examined every 3-6 months to spot any creasing, moisture or insect activity. It is advised rotating rugs every 3-6 months to distribute wear evenly and reduce fading.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

·        Damp or humid storage: Natural fibre rugs like wool and jute are especially vulnerable to moisture, which can cause mildew, fibre distortions or permanent stains.

·        Plastic wrap or sealed storage: These trap humidity and inhibit air flow, risking discoloration and fibre damage.

·        Direct sunlight or bright lighting: Exposure fades colours gradually - even rugs with UV-protected backing are not immune.

·        Prolonged heavy compression: Rolling a rug tightly and then placing weight on top can flatten pile, distort backing and shorten lifespan.

·        Ignoring loose fibres or sprouts: Handmade rugs often shed initially. Wool rugs may shed for 20-25 vacuums before stabilizing. Sprouts should be cut with scissors - not pulled.

Fibre-Specific Storage Considerations

Understanding your rug’s make-up helps tailor your care:

·        Wool rugs: Durable and resilient, but still require dry, clean storage and gentle handling.

·        Viscose or chenille blends: Highly sensitive to moisture or improper cleaning; avoid folding, exposure to wet environments and improper wrapping.

·        Outdoor/UV-treated rugs: These tolerate more exposure but still should be stored in shaded, dry conditions when not in use.

·        Use of rug pad: Supporting your rug with a pad even during storage preserves shape, prevents creasing and adds longevity.

Preserve Your Investment

A Kaleen rug is a blend of craft, design and enduring quality. Long-term storage isn’t just a logistical task; it’s part of the care logic that underpins the lifetime of your investment. By following the proper steps such as clean, roll, wrap, store flat, check and rotate, you honour the craftsmanship and ensure your rug remains as striking as the day it arrived. Proper storage safeguards not just a product, but a legacy of craftsmanship and design - a value we continue to uphold with every weave.