It's important to have Oriental rugs professionally cleaned, as improper cleaning methods can damage the fibers and dyes. Vacuuming regularly helps remove surface dirt, but a deep professional cleaning is needed to remove embedded dirt and contaminants that grind away at the rug's foundation over time. Waiting too long between cleanings allows dirt to accumulate deep within the rug, making it harder to fully remove and potentially causing permanent damage. Even if a rug doesn't look dirty, the trapped soil and bacteria can still be slowly degrading the fibers.