We all know how difficult it is for consumers to select an area rug for their home. This is not a purchasing decision they make every day, and therefore do not feel comfortable with it. Not having any knowledge as to the specific characteristics of a high vs. poor quality, as well as the required care and maintenance for these works of art, they often postpone their decisions or even abandon it altogether. If you find yourself in a similar situation, here are some tips that may help you make a decision:

1- Decide on the right size and color combination as the first step in this process. With so many beautiful floor coverings of hardwood, tile, laminate, and so many others out there, you may want to use an area rug as a centerpiece rather than coverage for the whole floor. There is no set of rules indicating that some certain percentage of the floor must always be covered by a rug. Keep in mind that the measurement of a rug, sometimes displayed on a price tag, normally does not include the fringe. So add a few inches from either side if you are trying to picture a certain size on your floor. As for the pattern and color combination, choose what you like. You will be living with your rug for a long time, so be patient when selecting the one that best meets your taste.

2- A handmade Rug made of natural wool is definitely more desirable compared to one made by machines and often using synthetic fibers in the pile. It has been proven that these fibers can be harmful to people exposed to them. You may have to increase your budget for such a rug, but look at it as an investment of a life-time, and not as gambling. Natural wool of Persian and Oriental rugs is a much better choice compared to artificial fibers of machine-made rugs. Why go with cheap imitations when the original is readily available? Although it is unlikely that a salesperson will sell you a work of reproduction or a machine-made rug as an authentic Persian or Oriental rug, always ask for a full description of the rug on your invoice.

3- If you happen to be travelling abroad and decide to buy yourself an area rug, make sure the merchant provides you with the proper documents, stating the USD value for the rug clearly as getting your rug through the customs can prove to be difficult and take a lot of time. Of course it all depends on the declared value by you. If buying locally, make sure you learn about the dealer’s return policy. An area rug can look very different once you get it on your floor in your own environment. Make sure you have the option of returning the rug if it did not work for you or for any other reason. Remember; do not settle for in-store credit. You may not be able to find anything that you really like.

4- The number of knots per square inch (KPSI) is definitely a factor in deciding the value of any handmade rug. But what is it worth to you if you get the highest KPSI in a rug on your floor, but you still cannot make yourself like it? Try not to pay too much attention to KPSI. Concentrate instead on the proper size and color combination best for your space.

5- The Use of padding underneath your rug is a good idea as it will keep it in place, preventing unwanted movement and wrinkles and, as a result, protecting your rug. However, a more important protective measure would be to keep your rug as clean as possible. Dust particles act as sharp razors once they get into the body of your rug, cutting the fibers of the pile as you step on it. Vacuum clean your rug as often as you wish, at least once a week. It will not harm your rug, only be careful not to get the fringe stuck in the cleaner as it can damage the rug. Have your rug washed professionally every few years. Do not attempt to wash it at home.

Purchasing an Oriental or a Persian rug is a time-consuming process and requires some patience. Do not forget that you will be living with your rug for many years to come. Take your time and select something in which you feel you will see something new every time you look at it.

Rug Firm is a direct importer of fine Persian and Oriental rugs. Rug Firm offers its customers free shipping within the continental U.S., free padding with every purchase, and a 30-day risk-free money back guarantee. Professional wash and repair service of any type of handmade rugs are available. Best of Persian and Oriental Rugs