How to DIY clean a small Aubusson rug?

Emma
by Emma

I inherited a small (58" x 28") Aubusson rug, and I don't know if it's ever been cleaned in 30? years. It's not horribly stained, but it does appear discolored in places. Is there a reputable product or DIY solution or a carpet cleaning machine for a home shampoo instead of professional cleaning?


  7 answers
  • Janet Pizaro Janet Pizaro on Jul 06, 2016
    There is hope ,however this will be stages of cleaning.First step is to wet the carpet with white vinegar and water mixed with baking soda into a pate. Next rub all over the carpet and leave on for a while to aid in the removal of the soiled areas.If need be put club soda as well. Next step place non colored towels on top with heavy objects to draw the water and soil out. Repeat as necessary.
  • Shawn Shawn on Jul 07, 2016
    If this is a true Aubusson it should be cleaned professionally. Look for a carpet dealer that also deals in Oriental rugs and offers a cleaning service. A nice rug is worth the professional effort.
    • Emma Emma on Jul 09, 2016
      Yes, it is a true Aubusson, but closest cleaner is Portland area, 6 hrs away! Thanks for your suggestion though.
  • B B on Jul 07, 2016
    Here are is an options: use fine grain salt and sprinkle rug. Use a stiff broom to work in then vacuum up. Credit: eHow
  • Jennie Lee Jennie Lee on Jul 07, 2016
    Perhaps you will be reluctant to try things on a valuable rug, but I always recommend Folex carpet spot remover. Lowe's carries it. It works like magic, is cheap and easy to use. There's at least one video on Youtube of a father with toddlers using it.
    • Emma Emma on Jul 09, 2016
      THANKS. I know for a fact that a cat soiled this rug (hairball, 7 yrs ago) -- and I used Folex on it then. I'm looking more for the overall cleaning.
  • Smartsally Smartsally on Jul 07, 2016
    One professional carpet cleaner told me they used "Dreft" detergent and warm water. Handed sponged with soft cloth.
  • GA Kimball GA Kimball on Jul 08, 2016
    How about "Woolite". try google--it's a wool rug, correct?
    • Emma Emma on Jul 09, 2016
      Thank You GA Kimball, I was surprised how few "hits" I got with Google for cleaning an Aubusson throw rug.
  • Abbigail Hunter Abbigail Hunter on Jul 09, 2016
    If it is not stained then I would use a steam mop on it. The mop will do wonders and will make it look brite and clean without wetting it or damage it.