Wool oriental rugs are beautiful, durable, and often treasured heirlooms. But like any fine textile, they have their quirks — including dye bleeding and backing separation. Here’s what you need to know to protect your rugs and maintain their longevity.
Dye Bleeding on Wool Rugs
Dye bleeding occurs when dark colors — such as reds, blues, and blacks — run into lighter areas, altering the rug’s design and appearance. Several factors can cause this:
-
Improper Dye Setting
Wool must be thoroughly rinsed in cold water after dyeing to remove excess surface dye before weaving. If this step is skipped, the wool may bleed during the rug’s first washings. -
Poor Quality or Unstable Dyes
Rugs made with low-quality or aniline dyes may experience bleeding even with proper care. Dark colors are most prone to migrating into adjacent lighter areas. -
Chemical Exposure
Everyday substances such as pet residues, acne creams, and common household chemicals can destabilize dyes and trigger bleeding over time.
Pro Tip from RugSpa: Rugs prone to dye bleeding may be safer to dry clean instead of wet washing. Always perform a wet test on a small area of the rug’s back using a white cotton cloth. Leave it overnight — if any color transfers to the cloth, wet washing could risk permanent bleeding.
Backing Separation in Tufted Rugs
Tufted rugs — often made like wall-to-wall carpeting — have two backings held together with latex glue. The yarn is anchored in the primary backing, and the secondary backing provides stability.
Backing separation can occur due to:
- Heavy Traffic or Chemical Exposure: Solvents, spills, and frequent wear can weaken the glue.
- Aging Glue: Over time, latex adhesives dry out and deteriorate, losing the ability to hold the backings together.
- Pet Stains: Urine or other residues can weaken fibers and adhesives, causing delamination.
When backing separation begins, the rug may need professional repair to restore stability and prevent further damage.
Protect Your Rugs with RugSpa
At RugSpa, we specialize in preserving the integrity and beauty of your wool rugs. From careful washing that protects against dye bleeding to repair services for backing separation, our experts ensure your rugs last for generations.
Looking for a new heirloom-quality rug?
Explore Kirishian Rugs for handmade, naturally dyed rugs that last a lifetime — and trust RugSpa to keep them looking their best.
Schedule your professional rug wash and repair today and safeguard your investment.