*Use a rug pad to prolong your carpet’s life* Nothing can be more damaging to a rug than poor or improper
cleaning. It is important to always get your carpet cleaned
professionally, your dealer will be able to recommend a good cleaning
service. If cleaned or dried imperfectly, a hand knotted carpet could
get permanently warped.
* Rotate your rug 180 degrees every year, to ensure it wears out evenly.
* Vacuum at least once a week to keep the pile fresh and free
from dust and mites. This actually slows the aging process of the
carpet. For hand-tufted rugs, use a vacuum without `beater bars’, as
they are less durable than handknotted rugs. Take your time with the
vacuum cleaner -- for example a 9x12 rug would
require 15-20 minutes to become squeaky clean.
* If you’re using the carpet in a high traffic area, do not
forget to vacuum the back of the rug every year. This shakes the dust
out of the carpet’s foundation.

* Tackle stains and spills immediately while they are fresh.
Basic food stains can be cleaned easily with club soda or seltzer.
However, make sure the carpet is thoroughly dry before being replaced
on the floor. For more information on carpets and kilims, visit http://copperwiki.org/index.php/Hand_Knotted_Carpets