Popular but Problematic Rug Fibers – What You Should Know
©2021 By Lynn Tall for Naples Rug Washing
Rug Fibers
Ask any rug cleaner and they’ll tell you – historically, wool is the best fiber for an area rug because of its ability to trap and hide soil, its durability, and cleanability. Yet, over the last decade or so, we have seen a huge influx of faux-luxe fibers like viscose rayon, Tencel, and bamboo silk, being used in rug designs. These fibers can be lumped together into a broader category of rug fibers called “Art-Silk” or Artificial Silk.
Art Silk Chinese Rug showing UV fading and discoloration.
Form Over Function
These lesser-performing art-silk fibers are very affordable when compared to real silk and are soft and luxurious to the touch. The problem is that these popular rug-making fibers are structurally weak and have a very low tolerance to everyday wear, abrasion, UV light, and spot cleaning. If your rug becomes stained, aggressive cleaning measures need to be avoided or else risk permanent damage to the fiber structure, texture, and dyes.
The Problems
Art-Silk fibers are soft and absorbent, but they are also moisture sensitive. They become weaker when wet but will hold moisture for a long time. Even if nothing spills on them, they will pull moisture from the air and hold on to it. This may cause a brittle texture or permanent discoloration.
If You Already Own Art-Silk Fiber Rugs
If you have already purchased a rug containing viscose rayon, Tencel, or bamboo silk (or any other of the art-silk fibers) don’t worry! Even though they come with inherent problems, if you follow THE RULES, we can help keep your art-silk fiber rug looking amazing for a long time.
THE RULES
RULE #1: LIGHT USAGE ONLY
Use your art-silk fiber rug in an area that receives low traffic, like a formal living room or guest bedroom. If that is not possible, commit yourself to annual professional cleaning and rotation. More often if it is in a very high traffic area.
RULE #2: NO SPOT CLEANING – EVEN WITH WATER
Do not spot clean your art-silk fiber rug yourself. If something spills or your dog has an accident on your rug, please call us before you do anything! Even blotting the wrong way may permanently distort these temperamental fibers. We have controlled protocols in place for safe specialty fiber care.
RULE #3: NO DIRECT SUNLIGHT
Avoid placing your art-silk fiber rug in direct sunlight. This will help minimize any premature color fading of the dyes due to overexposure of UV light.
RULE #4: BE PROACTIVE – APPLY PROTECTOR
Have us treat your NEW art-silk fiber rug with a professional, NON-water-based fiber protector designed for stain and soil repellency, and UV protection. If you have already been using your rug for a while, have it professionally cleaned and treated before it becomes stained or discolored!
Please call or email us with any questions you may have. We’re ready to help!
Get In Touch
naplesrugwashing@yahoo.com
(239) 248-7784
Our Office
3920 Progress Ave Ste 112
Naples, FL 34104
Our Open Hours
Monday, Wednesday, & Friday
9 am - 4pm
