avajo rug cleaning rates are higher than for oriental rugs, due to unstable dyes, blanket-like weaves, fragile single-ply construction, and tendency to buckle. However, success rates are high for the removal of color bleed, pet stains, overall yellowing, and other stains. Wet washing is the recommended method of cleaning Navajo and southwestern textiles, but because of the many complicating factors, it must be done by a responsible, experienced professional.
Our current rates

De-bleeding complete on top half of blanket

Cleaning and care of Navajo rugs have long been held to different standards than other ethnographic and antique rugs and textiles. Large-scale restoration, usually frowned upon in other fields, can be undertaken with satisfactory-to-excellent results. And washing techniques, especially the controlled use of higher-alkaline cleansers and reducing/bleaching agents, are generally accepted if used responsibly. Over-washing is nonetheless a major problem in the industry, and there is a need to apply more conservative textile conservation standards to these processes. At Textival, we try to reconcile the promise of appealing results with the long-term conservation of these beautiful and culturally significant pieces of art.

As with oriental rugs, the main threats to Navajo rug conservation are: moisture, sunlight/ultraviolet exposure, insect damage, and improper cleaning.

1. Moisture. Dampness from flooding, leaks, potted plants, and condensation can cause mildew, rot, bleaching, and degradation of fibers. Any wetting should be dried immediately–a carpet cleaning or flood restoration service can be helpful in extracting water, but make sure an experienced Navajo rug professional does the cleaning.

2. Sunlight/ultraviolet light and heat. Especially in the high desert southwest, sunlight will cause irreversible fading of colors and accelerate degradation of fibers. If you are placing a rug near direct sunlight, windows should be filtered with 100% UV protection. Also, radiant heat installed in many newer homes can accelerate fiber degradation.

3. Insects. Wool moths can infest any wool or animal fiber if it is dirty, in dark or undisturbed areas, or not checked regularly. The most vulnerable pieces are those hanging on walls, stored without protection in dark areas, or placed with furniture covering them so that they cannot be properly vacuumed or inspected. Other damaging insects include beetles and silverfish. Never use moth balls, moth crystals, or moth-proofing or pesticide sprays, which can all damage fibers and dyes. Cleanliness and good housekeeping are the best preventative.

4. Improper cleaning. It is actually better not to clean a rug than to have it improperly cleaned. High temperature solutions, high suction vacuums, high alkaline cleansers, and incomplete rinsing/soap residue build-up are all common and serious problems caused by commercial rug cleaning. Inexperienced or indifferent rug washers can cause color run, buckling, mildew buildup, crusty fringes, tears, over-washing/scrubbing/bleaching of stains, and other often irreversible problems. Get referrals from trusted dealers or conservators for a trustworthy rug cleaner in your area, or contact us at Textival.

* Because of their more fragile construction, Navajo rugs are also vulnerable to over-use and excessive wear when used on the floor. Make sure they are placed in low-traffic areas.

See below for a series of before-and-after images, with sample pricing of some recent Navajo rug cleaning projects we have undertaken. All estimates are made upon checking the piece into our workshop, and are subject to adjustment upon completing the work.

Our current rate for washing Navajo and southwestern textiles range from $4.00-6.00 per square foot for straight washing, and $6.00-8.00 per square foot for color run removal. Urine stain treatment, blocking, and minor color run removal will be estimated and charged depending on the piece.   to top