How to Protect your Rug from the Sun

As we welcome the summer and the wonderful rays of the sun, we should also be prepared for the effects that it can do to our precious rugs. Sun fading on a rug is not impossible to correct, but is very difficult. In this case, there is only prevention, and a costly cure. When you purchase a new rug or when you’re placing a rug in your home, you should also be aware of how the light from your windows can affect the rug. Be particular about skylights as well. You can also try to observe how the light falls and streams through you window at different times during the day.

When a rug fades unevenly, the color is impossible to even out. Keep your rug out of direct sunlight, if possible. The rays of the sun damage by causing the rug to fade where the light hits it. Consider window tints that can block out most of the sun’s harmful rays.


Antique rugs that were made with natural substances are especially susceptible to sun fading. Chemically washed rugs will still show some fading over time as well. Rug areas that are under direct sunlight will fade and look uneven compared to the other parts of the rug.


So what can you do to prevent your rug from fading? Frequently rotate your rug especially when it’s under direct sunlight. Or rotate it at least once a month. The rug will tend to fade but the color will at least be uniform. If the rug is not under direct sunlight, you can rotate it four times in a year or every season. If your valuable rug is inside a rarely used room, you can close the curtains and preserve the original colors. For more tips and ideas on how to protect your rugs in your home - see these videos on rug care provided by the folks at RugSale.com - 50,000 Designs, Just One Site....