Cleaning Antique Rugs and Carpets
Professional Antique Oriental Rug Cleaning in Chicago and Evanston
Over 50 Years of Experience in Cleaning and Caring for Fine Handmade Rugs
At Eli Peer Oriental Rugs we believe that proper rug cleaning is not simply a matter of making a carpet look clean. It requires knowledge, experience, patience, and an understanding of the rug's construction, materials, dyes, and condition.
With over 50 years of experience in the antique rug business, we specialize in the professional hand cleaning of antique Persian, Caucasian, Turkish, Chinese, and other fine handmade rugs and carpets.
All cleaning is performed at our own facilities in Evanston and our nearby warehouse, where each rug receives individual attention according to its particular needs.
Thorough Dust and Dirt Removal — The Foundation of Proper Cleaning
One of the most important and often overlooked steps in professional rug cleaning is the thorough removal of accumulated dust, sand, grit, and dirt from deep within the rug's foundation.
Over many years, these particles work their way between the knots and into the foundation, where ordinary household vacuuming cannot always reach them.
When people walk on a rug, embedded grit acts like an abrasive, gradually wearing down the fibers and weakening the structure.
We believe that no rug can be considered properly cleaned unless the accumulated dust and embedded dirt have been thoroughly removed.
Simply washing the surface or applying shampoo without first addressing the deeply embedded dirt may improve the rug's appearance, but it does not necessarily provide the thorough cleaning that a valuable handmade rug deserves.
Traditional Hand Washing and Individual Treatment
Every rug is carefully examined before cleaning. We consider its age, weaving technique, fibers, dyes, condition, and any existing damage before determining the appropriate method.
Our cleaning process may include thorough dust removal, careful hand washing, stain treatment, rinsing, and controlled drying.
Some rugs require additional attention. Depending on their condition and the stability of their dyes, certain rugs may benefit from extended soaking in a specially prepared water pool to help loosen stubborn soil, soften hardened deposits, and address certain stains and odors.
This is not appropriate for every rug. Fragile antique pieces, unstable dyes, delicate silk, and weakened foundations may require a different approach.
Our objective is always to achieve the best possible cleaning results without compromising the rug's original character or structural integrity.
CLICK HERE TO WATCH OUR ANTIQUE RUG CLEANING VIDEO
Why the Lowest Cleaning Price May Not Be the Best Value
We understand that customers naturally compare prices when looking for professional rug cleaning
However, the lowest cleaning price does not necessarily represent the best cleaning or the best value.
Proper rug cleaning requires time, careful inspection, experience, appropriate equipment, and attention to details that may not be visible when the rug is returned.
A rug that appears clean on the surface may still contain embedded dirt, cleaning residue, or untreated problems that can affect its condition over time.
For valuable antique and handmade rugs, the quality and thoroughness of the cleaning should be considered just as carefully as the price.
At Eli Peer Oriental Rugs, our priority is not simply to offer the least expensive cleaning, but to provide the appropriate care that each rug deserves.
Moth Prevention, Inspection and Care of Antique Rugs
Moth infestation is one of the most common and potentially damaging problems affecting wool rugs and carpets, particularly antique pieces.
Moth larvae can feed on wool fibers, sometimes causing extensive damage before the owner becomes aware of the problem. Areas beneath furniture, along the edges of rugs, and portions that receive little light or disturbance are particularly vulnerable.
At Eli Peer Oriental Rugs, we frequently encounter rugs that have suffered moth damage, often because the infestation was not discovered early enough.
Regular inspection and preventive care are among the best ways to protect valuable antique rugs from moth damage.
Annual Rug Inspections and Preventive Advice
We offer guidance on the proper care and preservation of antique and handmade rugs, including:
Inspection for signs of moth activity, larvae, and damage to wool fibers.
Examination of vulnerable areas, including underneath furniture, along rug edges, and on the reverse side.
Recommendations for proper vacuuming, cleaning, and routine maintenance.
Advice on appropriate storage and protection of rugs that are not in regular use.
Evaluation of existing damage and recommendations for repair or conservation when necessary.
When moth activity is suspected, we can examine the rug and recommend appropriate treatment based on its condition and the extent of the problem.
We believe that preventive care and early detection are far less costly than extensive restoration after serious moth damage has occurred.
Special Care for Antique and Delicate Rugs
Antique rugs often require greater attention than newer machine-made carpets.
Worn areas, delicate foundations, silk fibers, old repairs, unstable dyes, and previous water damage must be considered before washing.
We also provide professional rug repair and conservation services at our facilities, allowing us to address structural concerns when necessary.
Contact Us for Professional Rug Cleaning
We serve homeowners, collectors, interior designers, and estates throughout Chicago, Evanston, Wilmette, Winnetka, Highland Park, Lake Forest, and surrounding communities.
Whether your rug requires routine cleaning or specialized attention, we welcome the opportunity to examine it and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Eli Peer Oriental Rugs
1501 Chicago Avenue
Evanston, Illinois 60201
Office: (847) 328-3281
Cell: (847) 226-0211
Email: peerantiquerugs@gmail.com
Website: www.peerrugs.com