Understanding the Difference Between Handmade and Machine-Made Rugs

We understand that not all rugs are created equal. Before any cleaning or treatment begins, it's essential to know how your rug was made—because that impacts everything from its value to how it should be cared for.

Handmade (Man-Made) Rugs: Artistry in Every Thread

Handmade rugs—also known as man-made rugs—are individually crafted by skilled artisans. These rugs are often woven by hand using traditional techniques, and can take weeks, months, or even years to complete.

Key Traits of Handmade Rugs:

Natural fibers such as wool, silk, or cotton
Higher value due to craftsmanship and uniqueness
More delicate and fragile, especially antique or silk pieces
Often come from regions known for rug weaving, like Persia, Turkey, or India
The backside often shows knots and irregularities, a sign of authentic hand-knotting

Because of their delicate nature, handmade rugs require extra care and a customized cleaning approach to avoid damage.

Pickup & Delivery Only:

To provide the most convenient service possible, we offer pickup and delivery only for area rug cleaning. We do not accept drop-offs, as our team is always out in the field serving clients. Simply schedule a pickup, and we’ll handle the rest—from careful transport to professional cleaning and prompt delivery back to your door.

Machine-Made Rugs: Durable and Affordable

Machine-made rugs are produced in large quantities using automated looms. They're usually made from synthetic materials, such as polypropylene, nylon, or other plastic-based fibers, which makes them more durable and affordable.

Key Traits of Machine-Made Rugs:

Mass-produced, consistent in design and size
Usually made with synthetic materials
Resilient to wear and tear, suitable for high-traffic areas
More affordable, often found in retail stores
The backing is typically uniform and may include glue or machine stitching

These rugs can handle more aggressive cleaning methods, but still benefit from professional care to maintain appearance and lifespan.

✨ BeClean’s Professional Area Rug Cleaning Process✨

1

Intake & Inspection

We begin by identifying the rug’s fiber type (wool, silk, cotton, synthetic), construction style (hand-knotted, tufted, machine-made), dye composition, and fringe type. Our technicians inspect for pet urine contamination, dry rot, moth damage, prior repairs, and signs of wear. This step ensures a customized cleaning plan tailored to each rug’s needs.

2

Photograph & Documentation

Before cleaning begins, we document the rug’s condition with high-resolution front and back photos. We log visible stains, damage, and any pre-existing issues. This protects our clients and supports transparency throughout the process.

3

Dusting (Dry Soil Removal)

Using compressed air dusting grids, CRB machines, Badger tools, and traditional beating techniques, we remove embedded dry soil and grit. Rugs are flipped multiple times to ensure thorough particulate removal—critical for preserving fibers and preventing mud during washing.

4

Pre-Vacuum

After dusting, we vacuum both sides of the rug to lift fine particles. This step enhances the effectiveness of pre-treatment and washing, especially for high-traffic rugs and pet households

5

Pre-Spot / Pre-Treat

We target specific stains—urine, food spills, oils, and more—with fiber-safe chemistry. Our stain removal protocols vary based on rug type and contamination level, ensuring maximum success without damaging dyes or fibers

6

Dye-Stability Test

Before soaking, we test dye stability using hot water and cleaning agents on the rug’s fringe, borders, and colored areas. This prevents bleeding and ensures safe washing for antique, Persian, and heirloom rugs.

7

Saturation / Soak / Pre-Wash

Rugs are fully saturated in temperature-controlled water. Depending on the rug’s condition, we may use enzyme baths, odor-neutralizing soaks, or urine decontamination treatments to restore freshness and hygiene.

8

Apply Cleaning Solution (Soap)

We apply wool-safe, silk-safe, cotton-safe, or synthetic-safe detergents based on rug composition. Our eco-friendly solutions are designed to lift grime while preserving texture and color vibrancy.

9

Agitation / Scrubbing

Using manual brushes, rotary machines, or CRB tools, we gently agitate the rug to dislodge embedded dirt. Scrubbing intensity is adjusted based on rug age, weave, and fragility.

10

Power Wash / Flush

We perform a pressure wash or flood rinse (depending on rug type) to flush out contaminants. This step is especially effective for rugs exposed to heavy foot traffic or pet accidents

11

Re-Scrub / Detail Clean

Fringes, edges, and stubborn stains receive extra attention. We detail clean high-traffic zones to ensure no residue or discoloration remains.

12

Rinse

A thorough cold-water rinse continues until runoff is clear. This ensures all soap, soil, and contaminants are fully removed.

13

Water Extraction

Using squeegees, centrifuge spinners, or floor extractors, we remove up to 90% of moisture. This drastically reduces drying time and prevents mildew or dye migration.

14

Groom / Nap Alignment

While still damp, we groom the rug to align the nap (pile direction). This restores the rug’s original texture and visual appeal.

15

Drying

Rugs are hung or laid flat in a climate-controlled drying room with airflow, heat, and dehumidification. We flip rugs as needed to ensure even drying and prevent odor or yellowing.

16

Post-Dry Inspection

We inspect for wick-back, dye bleeding, lingering odors, and yellowing. Any issues are addressed before final presentation

17

Post-Treat Spot Removal

Specialty stain removers—oxidizers, reducers, fringe whiteners—are applied to treat any remaining discoloration. This step ensures a flawless finish

18

Post Vacuuming

Once dry, we vacuum again to lift the pile and remove any residual dust or loose fibers. This enhances softness and presentation

19

Final Grooming

We perform a final grooming to set the pile direction and prepare the rug for delivery. This step ensures showroom-quality presentation.

20

Final Inspection & Quality Control

Our team checks for odor, softness, pile alignment, stain removal, and fringe condition. “After” photos are taken to document results and ensure client satisfaction.

21

Wrap & Prepare for Delivery

Rugs are carefully wrapped, labeled, and stored in a dry zone. We prepare them for safe transport or pickup, ensuring they arrive fresh, clean, and protected.

What Makes Handwash Rugs So Special and So Delicate?

Handmade rugs are not mass-produced. Each one can take months or even years to weave. They’re often made with:

Natural wool, silk, or cotton fibers

Vegetable or mineral dyes (which can bleed if treated incorrectly)

Intricate knotting techniques with thousands of knots per square foot

This means:
🚫 No harsh chemicals
🚫 No rotary scrubbers
🚫 No steam cleaning
✅ Only expert, hands-on techniques

Free Quote

(910) 788-4206

Why This Matters Before Cleaning

Understanding whether your rug is handmade or machine-made helps us choose the safest and most effective cleaning method. A one-size-fits-all approach can damage fine rugs—especially if they're handmade and crafted from delicate fibers.

We start with a detailed rug inspection to identify the construction type, fiber content, and condition. This allows us to offer the specialized treatment each rug needs.