Over time, even the most beautiful rugs can begin to show signs of wear. Fraying edges, faded colours, stains, or threadbare patches can make you wonder: should you invest in rug restoration, or is it time to replace your rug altogether?
At Washco, we specialise in restoring rugs to their former glory, helping Australian homeowners preserve the beauty and value of their cherished floor coverings. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the pros and cons of both rug restoration and replacement so you can make the right choice for your home, your budget, and your style.
Rug restoration refers to the process of professionally repairing and rejuvenating an existing rug. Depending on the damage, this may involve stain removal, reweaving, re-dyeing, fringe repair, or deep cleaning.
Here’s why restoration is often worth considering:
Many rugs, especially handmade or heirloom pieces, hold emotional or historical significance. Perhaps it was passed down from family, purchased during travel, or chosen for a special event. Restoring the rug allows you to hold onto those memories without compromise.
In many cases, professional rug restoration is significantly cheaper than buying a new, high-quality rug. Custom rugs or hand-knotted Persian and Oriental rugs can be incredibly expensive to replace. Restoration allows you to extend the life of your rug at a fraction of the cost.
By choosing to restore rather than replace, you’re keeping waste out of landfills and reducing the demand for new production. Rug restoration is a sustainable option for homeowners looking to reduce their environmental footprint.
Older rugs often feature intricate, hand-crafted designs that are difficult to replicate in mass-produced alternatives. Restoration retains the artisan quality that makes your rug unique.
While restoration has many benefits, there are times when replacement is the better route:
If your rug has large sections that are completely worn out or if the foundation (warp and weft) is compromised, restoration may not be feasible. In these cases, starting fresh with a new rug could save you money and hassle.
Rugs affected by long-term moisture exposure or moth infestations may be too far gone. Restoration may remove visible issues, but it doesn’t always guarantee full sanitisation. If hygiene is a concern, replacement might be the safer option.
If your interior design has changed and your current rug no longer suits your space, you may want to consider replacing it with a modern style or a new size. Restoration won’t change the colour or pattern dramatically enough to suit a completely new look.
Still unsure? Ask yourself the following:
At Washco, our rug restoration services include:
Each rug is assessed individually, and we’ll provide a clear quote and treatment plan before starting any work.
Choosing between rug restoration and replacement doesn’t have to be difficult. At Washco, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Our team of skilled technicians uses safe, non-toxic products and proven restoration techniques to bring your rugs back to life.
Whether it’s a priceless Persian, a sentimental family piece, or a quality area rug showing signs of wear, we’ll help you assess its potential and recommend the best solution.
Costs vary based on the size of the rug and the type of damage. A small repair may cost under $100, while full restoration of a large handmade rug could cost several hundred dollars. Contact us for a free quote.
Most restorations take between 1 and 3 weeks, depending on the extent of work required.
Not all rugs can be restored, especially those with foundation damage or mould. However, we offer a free assessment to determine viability.
Yes, we provide local pickup and delivery within Sydney and surrounding suburbs.
Don’t rush into replacing your rug just yet. Contact Washco to explore your rug restoration options. Our team will assess your rug, offer expert advice, and help you decide what makes the most sense for your needs and budget.
📞 Call us today or request a free quote online at washco.com.au
