How to store a rug

Clean it first

Moths and carpet beetles feed on wool, and they go for rugs with food, sweat and dirt in them. Vacuum the rug on both sides before storing it. For long storage, have it washed by a rug cleaner.

Make sure the rug is completely dry. A rug stored damp can grow mold within days.

Roll it, never fold it

Folds put stress on the foundation and leave creases, and on an older rug they can crack the warp and weft. Roll the rug along its length instead, around a cardboard tube if you have one.

Roll in the direction of the pile, so the fibers lie flat. Run a hand along the rug to find it: the smooth direction is the way the pile lies.

Wrap it in something that breathes

Use a cotton sheet, muslin, acid-free paper or a breathable storage wrap such as Tyvek. Tie it loosely with cotton tape.

Do not seal a rug in plastic for long storage. Plastic traps moisture, which can lead to mold and odor. Plastic wrap is fine for a few days during a move.

Pick the right place

Choose a dry, dark room with a steady temperature, such as a closet or climate-controlled storage unit. Avoid damp basements, hot attics and garages.

Store the rug flat on a shelf or across supports, off the floor. Do not stand it on end, where it can sag and crease, and do not stack heavy things on top.

Check on it

Unroll the rug every few months if you can. Air it out, look for moth larvae or bare patches in the pile, and roll it back up.

Cedar and lavender may discourage moths a little, but they do not kill eggs or larvae. Regular checks protect a rug better.

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