The short answer
- Rugs are best stored clean, completely dry and in a space where air can circulate.
- Poor storage invites moths, mold, fading and crushed fibers.
- We offer secure, climate-controlled storage designed to protect fibers, dyes and structure, short or long term.
- Combine storage with a wash, repair or pickup so your rug is ready when you are.
Moving, renovating or simply rotating your rugs? Rug storage done wrong can undo years of good care: a damp garage, a hot attic or a plastic bag can turn a beautiful rug into a moth or mold problem. This guide explains how to store a rug safely yourself, and how our secure, climate-controlled storage works in Denver and Austin.
What can go wrong in storage
- Moths. Wool rugs that are soiled and left in the dark are an easy target. See moth prevention.
- Mold and mildew. A rug that goes into storage damp, or sits in a humid space, can grow mold. See mold and mildew in rugs.
- Fading and heat damage. Light, heat and fluctuating temperatures can stress fibers and dyes.
- Crushing and creasing. Folding, stacking heavy items or leaning a rug for months can leave permanent marks.
How to store a rug yourself
- Clean it first. Soil and body oils attract moths. Have the rug professionally washed. See rug cleaning.
- Make sure it’s completely dry, front and back.
- Roll, don’t fold. Roll the rug with the pile facing in, so the pile doesn’t crack.
- Wrap it breathably. Use cotton or similar breathable material, not sealed plastic, which can trap moisture.
- Store it off the floor in a clean, dry, ventilated space, away from direct sun and heat.
- Check it from time to time. Look for any signs of moths or damp.
Our climate-controlled rug storage
If you’d rather not worry about it, we offer secure, climate-controlled rug storage designed to protect fibers, dyes and structure, whether you need it for a few weeks or a few years. Storage pairs naturally with our other services:
- Cleaned before storage so your rug goes in ready.
- Repairs while you wait. See repiling and reweaving or fringe replacement.
- Pickup and delivery to and from storage. See pickup and delivery.
When storage makes sense
- You’re moving or between homes.
- You’re renovating or painting and don’t want rugs in the way.
- You rotate rugs by season.
- You have an inherited or valuable rug that you want to keep safe. Consider an appraisal for your records.
Rug storage FAQs
Should a rug be cleaned before storage?
Yes. Clean rugs are far less attractive to moths, and storing a damp or dirty rug invites problems.
Can I store a rug in plastic?
We don’t recommend sealed plastic, which can trap moisture. Use breathable cotton wrapping instead.
Is cedar enough to protect a rug?
Cedar only protects items that are already free of moths, so clean the rug first and don’t rely on cedar alone.
How long can you store a rug?
Short or long term. Let us know your needs and we’ll quote accordingly.
Will you pick up my rug for storage?
Yes. We offer pickup and delivery.