Flatweave Care
The specific maintenance and cleaning requirements for kilim and other flatweave rugs, distinct from pile rug care.
Flatweave kilims have no pile to cushion them, the structural wefts are the visible surface. This means: dirt and grit that accumulate on a kilim surface are in direct contact with the structural threads, and cleaning needs to address this without overstressing the weave.
For regular maintenance: vacuum on low suction, suction side only (no beater bar), gently, in the direction of the weft. Turn and vacuum the back periodically. Beat gently outdoors for deep cleaning, kilims respond well to this traditional method.
For wet cleaning: do not wet-clean at home. Take to a specialist with experience in natural-dye flatweaves. Steam cleaning and machine washing are not appropriate for vintage kilims.
For stains: blot immediately with a clean white cloth, working from the outside of the stain inward. Never rub, rubbing spreads the stain and can damage the weft threads. For oil-based stains, sprinkle with cornstarch and leave for several hours before brushing gently.
For storage: roll lengthways (never fold), on an acid-free tube if possible, and store in a cool dry environment. Check periodically for moths.
