FAQs

GoodWeave and Label STEP certify fair labor and safer production in Nepal and beyond. Look for their labels or documentation at purchase.

Check the back: hand-knotted shows individual knots and no fabric backing; tufted pieces have a glued canvas/latex backing and often shed more.

Use with caution. Viscose can yellow or stiffen with moisture and performs poorly in high-traffic or spill-prone areas compared with wool or real silk.

Blot immediately with clean, dry cloths, then dab with cold water and a wool-safe solution. Avoid scrubbing; if dye transfers, call a professional.

Every 1–3 years depending on traffic and soil. High-use family rooms are closer to 12–18 months; low-traffic bedrooms can go longer.

Vacuum weekly with a suction-only head, rotate every 3–6 months, and use a pad. Clip—not pull—any stray yarns, and keep fringes out of vacuums.

A felt-and-natural-rubber pad balances grip and cushioning. Aim for roughly ⅛–¼ inch thickness to prevent slipping without smothering heat flow.

Yes, with care. Keep floor temperature below about 80°F (27°C), use a breathable pad, and avoid covering more than \~50% of a heated zone.

Some shedding is normal early on as loose fibers release. Vacuum with suction-only (no beater bar) and it typically tapers after the first few months.

Yes—wool is resilient and naturally soil-resistant. Choose lower-to-medium pile, darker or patterned colors, and minimal silk for best wear in busy rooms.

Expect roughly \$45–\$200 per sq ft depending on knot count, wool/silk blend, size, and brand. An 8×10 could range from about \$3,600 to \$16,000+.

Many hand-knotted Tibetan rugs measure around 8–10 mm (about ⅜ inch) pile height. Some thicker, sculpted piles emphasize carved patterns.