Caring for Silk Rugs with History

Silk rugs aren’t just beautiful, they’re historical textiles that deserve thoughtful upkeep. Whether you’ve inherited one or sourced it yourself abroad, these pieces carry weight: in craftsmanship, culture, and value. Caring for them properly helps preserve that. Here’s what to keep in mind if you live with one.

Rotate for Light and Life
Silk is sensitive to sunlight, and even indirect light can cause fading over time. If your rug is in a naturally lit room, rotate it every few months to prevent uneven wear or discoloration. It’s a small habit that extends the life of the piece and keeps the pile aging evenly.

Bare Feet Only
Silk rugs aren’t meant for high-traffic zones or shoes. They hold up best in lower-use areas like bedrooms or sitting rooms, where the contact is softer. Encourage bare feet or soft indoor slippers. Friction from heels, boots, or daily wear will thin the pile quickly.

Shake, Don’t Beat
Silk rugs require gentle maintenance. A light shake outdoors can help remove surface dust. If vacuuming, skip the roller brush. Use a handheld or low-suction attachment, and always go with the grain. Never vacuum the fringe—pulling can unravel the edge.

Address Spills with Calm
For spills, blot immediately with a clean, dry cloth. Don’t rub or scrub, it spreads the stain and damages the fibers. For anything beyond water, avoid household cleaners and call a professional who specializes in silk or antique textiles.

Let It Rest Flat
If you ever need to store your silk rug, roll it—don’t fold. Use acid-free paper or muslin between layers, and avoid plastic. Store it flat in a cool, dry area. Moisture, compression, or temperature shifts can permanently damage natural fibers.

Honor Its Place
Silk rugs aren’t meant to disappear into a room. They’re focal points. When choosing where to place one, consider not only the light and traffic, but how it interacts with your furniture and space. These are not throwaway pieces, they’re meant to last + to be passed down.

The truth is, silk rugs age well when we let them. Maintenance isn’t complicated, it just needs to be consistent. Like any piece with a story, they thrive when treated with respect and attention. If you’re investing in silk, you’re also investing in stewardship.

Karen Cairo
Saint + Souvenir founder + curator