The "washing" process of Persian carpets | The secret of local cleaning for the best shine and texture

It doesn't end once the carpet is finished weaving! Wouldn't you like to know the moment when the carpet is truly reborn?

Hello! Welcome back to the beautiful world of Persian carpets. The story of how a single Persian carpet takes so long to weave is truly moving. However, a carpet that has just been woven is still just a little short of being "finished". To bring out its true brilliance and enchanting texture, there is a magical process that is absolutely essential.

That is "washing." You may be surprised, thinking, "Wait, I'm going to wash my precious carpet with water?" But don't worry. This "washing" is not just for removing dirt, it is a secret technique that ultimately determines the quality and beauty of the Persian carpet.

Today, we will take you deeper into the little-known world of Persian carpet washing. Let's explore together the amazing secrets of why this simple step makes carpets so beautiful and durable!

Why "wash" Persian carpets? Three magic tricks for "washing" Persian carpets

First of all, why do we need to "wash" a freshly woven Persian carpet? It's to give the carpet a wonderful "transformation." There are three main purposes:

1. Remove excess and "wake up" the carpet! During the long weaving process, fine wool particles, dust, and even traces of excess dye that remain on the threads inevitably adhere to the carpet. By carefully washing away these particles, the carpet's original colors become vivid and it is reborn in a hygienic way.
2. Gently loosen the fibers to achieve dreamlike "softness"! By washing, the tightly packed fibers are loosened to the right degree, making the entire carpet surprisingly flexible. This creates the enchanting softness and melting touch that is unique to Persian carpets.
3. The weave is tightened, adding to the durability you can rely on! During the washing and drying process, the weave of the carpet is tightened to the right degree, making it more stable. This further enhances the excellent durability of Persian carpets.

In other words, washing is like the final and most important "finishing polish" that makes a Persian rug beautiful, comfortable, and a treasure that will be cherished for generations to come.

Traditional Persian washing method [Water, soap, and the spirit of the craftsman]

So how exactly do they wash Persian carpets? The scene is like an ancient ritual. It is dynamic, yet surprisingly delicate handiwork.

First, the carpet is spread out over a large area and generously poured with water. Then, using mostly natural, gentle soap, the surface of the carpet is carefully but quickly scrubbed with a large brush, just as if washing a baby's skin. At this time, the craftsmen use their many years of experience to determine the direction of the pile and the condition of the material, and proceed with the work with an exquisite amount of pressure. They never use force, but gently bring out only the dirt deep within the fibers... a true work of craftsmanship.

And this is where the unique technique of Persian tradition comes in. Large carpets cannot be wrung out like laundry at home, so a large spatula-like tool similar to an iron hoe comes into play.

This tool is used to slide over the surface of the carpet repeatedly, carefully yet powerfully pushing out the moisture from deep within the fibers. This applies even pressure to the entire carpet, allowing the moisture to be removed efficiently without damaging the precious fibers. The rhythmic movements are mesmerizing to watch.

The blessings of the sun and the power of the wind [Exquisite texture created by drying in the sun]

After being carefully washed and all excess water removed, the Persian carpets are moved to the final drying process, where they are hung out in the sun.

The sight of washed carpets lined up in rows on a vast expanse of land, entrusting themselves to the sunlight and dry wind, is truly a spectacular sight. In particular, the dry climate of the Qum region of Iran, where Persian carpets are produced, is the perfect environment for drying carpets. In the dry air, where the humidity sometimes drops below 10%, the carpets dry surprisingly quickly and evenly.

This natural drying using only the power of the sun and wind is said to make the carpet even softer and improve its comfort. Also, being exposed to plenty of sunlight has the effect of making the dye colors more stable and more vivid. It is truly the blessings of nature that give Persian carpets their final beauty.

Does Qumu water work miracles? The secret behind making carpets extra soft

Persian carpets, especially silk carpets, become supple as if reborn after going through this "washing" process... One of the secrets to this is the "quality of Qum's water," which has been passed down like a legend among carpet lovers.

The holy city of Qum, located in central Iran, is said to contain a very small amount of salt in the water of this region, in an exquisite balance, almost like a natural magic. This special water acts gently on silk and wool fibers, making the carpets incredibly soft and giving them a unique, melting texture that cannot be replicated anywhere else. It is said to be the "secret recipe."

The effect is so great that even the finest Persian carpets woven in other famous production areas such as Tabriz and Isfahan are transported to Qum, and only the "washing" process is entrusted to specialized craftsmen. That is how special and irreplaceable the water of Qum and the washing techniques that have been cultivated there for many years are for the quality of Persian carpets.

The surprising effects of washing [Beauty, durability, and comfort all improve!]

Looking at it this way, I think you can see what wonderful changes the "washing" process can bring to a Persian carpet.

• The beauty of the appearance is dramatically improved! By completely removing all dirt and excess dye, the colors become more vivid and the luster of silk and wool increases, as if they are shining from within.
• The texture and comfort of the fabric is improved like a dream! The fibers are carefully loosened to make it incredibly soft and supple. The blissful feeling you get when walking barefoot on the fabric is only possible thanks to this wash.
• Even more durable! The weave is tightly woven, making the carpet stronger and longer lasting.
• Dye fixation is also improved! The color becomes more stable and it becomes easier to maintain its beautiful condition for longer.

Indeed, "washing" is the final and most important "magic finishing touch" that brings out the maximum charm of a Persian carpet and determines its value.

Although invisible, the most important thing is the skill and experience of the washing craftsman.

The "washing" of Persian carpets is not as simple as just washing them with water and soap. It is the result of the skilled "skill" and "experience" of specialized craftsmen who have been dedicated to this field for many years.

The temperature of the water, the type of soap and how to lather it, the strength and timing of brushing, the angle and speed of the tool used to push out the water, and accurate reading of the weather on the day to determine how to dry it... Each and every decision has a direct impact on the finished carpet. If the carpet is not washed sufficiently, it will be hard and its original beauty will not be fully brought out. On the other hand, if it is washed too much, there is a risk that the delicate fibers will be damaged and the precious color will change.

The craftsmen carefully examine the material and weaving condition of each carpet as if it were their own child, adjusting the washing speed as if they were "talking to the carpet" to bring out the inherent beauty and softness of the carpet to the fullest. Just watching them wash the carpet is moving. Although it is hard to see on the surface, it is a truly honorable job that supports the quality of Persian carpets.

Restore the best shine [The ultimate choice: Persian carpet cleaning in the place of origin]

Now, I hope that those of you who have read this far have come to understand how special and important the process of "washing" Persian carpets is. In particular, the "miraculous" effect of Qum water sets it apart from any other cleaning method.

So, if you have a Persian carpet, especially a precious silk carpet or a valuable antique carpet, and are concerned about stains or would like to restore its original texture, we would like you to know that there is an option of "professional cleaning at the place of origin (Qom)".

This is the ultimate aesthetic for carpets. The special water of Qum and washing by skilled craftsmen who inherit the tradition may restore the shine and softness of your carpet to the same level as when it was new, or even better. Of course, it may cost more in cost and time than cleaning in Japan. However, if you want to use your truly valuable Persian carpet for a long time in the best condition, it is the ultimate choice that is worth considering.

We at Golestan can help you take care of your precious Persian carpets with this special "local cleaning" service. This is a service we can provide thanks to our longstanding connections with trusted local workshops. If you are interested, please feel free to contact us. We will provide you with detailed information and instructions.

Summary: Through "washing", Persian carpets are transformed into true works of art.

The "washing" process, which is carried out after the weaving of a Persian carpet, is much more than a simple process of removing dirt. It is a sacred, almost magical ritual that breathes new life into the carpet and ultimately perfects its beauty, softness, and durability.

By removing dust and other unnecessary substances, allowing the dyes to adhere firmly, and gently loosening the fibers, Persian carpets can fully realize their true value and be elevated to "works of art" that will be loved for generations. In particular, the unique softness that is said to come from the waters of Qum is proof of its special quality, setting it apart from other carpets.

The next time you touch a Persian carpet, try to remember for a moment that behind its beautiful colors and soft feel lies the careful handiwork of unknown artisans, the blessings of nature, and the power of water that can sometimes be called a miracle. I'm sure you will come to love that carpet even more, and feel it to be an irreplaceable treasure.

[Click here for advice on choosing a Persian carpet]

Golestan, a Persian carpet specialist, will help you find the perfect carpet to suit your room and lifestyle. Our expert staff will be happy to help you choose from our extensive selection, so please feel free to consult with us.

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