A kilim is not a "regular rug." It's an ancient flat-woven carpet with a story in every thread—literally. In this guide: how they're made, where the patterns come from, and why they are so popular in Dutch interiors right now.
What makes a kilim different from a regular rug?
A traditional rug is knotted: hundreds of thousands of knots per square meter, with a soft pile on top. A kilim is woven: wool or cotton threads pass through vertical warp threads, much like a large woven cloth. The result:
- No pile — flat surface, easier to keep clean, no feet 'sinking' into it
- Lightweight — a 240×170 kilim is about 4-5 kg, a hand-knotted vintage rug can easily be 12-15 kg
- Usable on both sides — flipping it offers a slight color variation
- Geometric patterns — the weaving technique lends itself to angular shapes, not floral curves
The history: not 'oriental', but specific
Kilims have been made for over 7000 years in a broad region: Turkey, Iran, the Caucasus, Central Asia. The Turkish kilim has its own characteristics: often brighter colors, strongly geometric patterns, and symbolism that is generations old. A diamond pattern = protection. An S-shape = water or prosperity. A hand = warding off evil.
Most kilims in our collection come from central and eastern Turkey, where the weaving technique is still passed down by hand from mother to daughter in villages. View our authentic Turkish kilims.
How long does a kilim last?
With normal use, easily 40-60 years. The vintage kilims we sell are often already 30-50 years old and still in top condition. Wool is naturally durable, stain-resistant, and resistant to foot traffic.
Where do you place a kilim?
Three favorite spots:
- Under the dining table. The flat structure allows chairs to slide effortlessly — much more practical than a high-pile rug. Calculate rug size as table + 60 cm all around. Our dining table guide provides concrete measurements.
- In the hallway or entrance. Lightweight + easy to keep clean = ideal for high-traffic areas. A narrow model, 80-100 cm wide, often works best.
- As a tapestry. Especially older kilims are often hung as wall decoration. The patterns truly come into their own at eye level.
Kilim vs vintage knotted: which do you choose?
Simple decision tree:
- Looking for a colorful pattern and relatively light rug? → Kilim
- Looking for a soft, warm look with pile? → Hand-knotted vintage rug
- Seating area where you often sit on the floor? → Knotted (softer)
- Dining room or hallway? → Kilim (practical)
Maintenance in 5 points
- Vacuum regularly without a beater bar (the brush can pull threads loose)
- Rotate the rug 180° every six months for even wear
- Stain? Dab immediately with a dry cloth, do not rub
- Once a year, beat it outside or have it professionally cleaned
- Avoid direct sunlight — wool fades faster than synthetic fibers
More detail in our rug cleaning guide.
Frequently asked questions
Are all kilims the same?
No — each region has its own patterns. Turkish, Anatolian, Persian, Afghan kilims each have their own style. In our collection, you'll mainly find Turkish pieces.
Can a kilim be used with underfloor heating?
Yes, very well in fact. Flat woven = heat passes through easily. With a high-pile rug, heat can 'get trapped'.
Are kilims suitable for allergy sufferers?
Wool repels dust instead of trapping it. Unfortunately not for wool allergies, but for dust, animal, or pollen allergies, it's a better choice than synthetic.
Specifically: view the collection
We currently have over 40 unique Turkish kilims in stock, each hand-woven and unique. View all kilims and filter by size or color.
