A kilim is not "just a rug". It is an ancient flat-woven carpet with a story in every thread — literally. In this guide: how they are 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 between vertical warp threads, just like a large piece of cloth. The result:
- No pile — flat surface, easier to keep clean, no feet that 'sink' into it
- Lightweight — a 240×170 kilim weighs about 4-5 kg, a hand-knotted vintage rug easily 12-15 kg
- Usable on both sides — turning it over gives 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 more than 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 wear and tear.
Where do you place a kilim?
Three favorite places:
- Under the dining table. Because of the flat structure, chairs slide effortlessly — much more practical than a high-pile rug. Allow for rug size table + 60 cm around. Our dining table guide gives concrete dimensions.
- In the hallway or entrance. Lightweight + easy to keep clean = ideal for high-traffic areas. A narrow model of 80-100 cm wide often works best.
- As a wall hanging. Especially older kilims are often hung as wall decoration. The patterns really come to their rights at eye level.
Kilim vs vintage knotted: which one 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
- Sitting 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 (the brush can pull threads loose)
- Turn the rug 180° every half year for even wear
- Stain? Immediately blot with a dry cloth, do not rub
- Once a year beat outside or have professionally cleaned
- Not in 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 will mainly find Turkish pieces.
Can a kilim go under underfloor heating?
Yes, actually very well. Flat woven = heat passes through well. With a high-pile rug, heat can 'linger'.
Are kilims suitable for allergy sufferers?
Wool repels dust instead of trapping it. Unfortunately not for a wool allergy, but for dust, animal, or pollen allergies it is actually a better choice than synthetic.
Concrete: view the collection
Our stock of Turkish kilims is constantly changing — each piece is handwoven and unique. View all kilims and filter by size or color.
Do you want to place a kilim in a light room full of glass? Then first read what to pay attention to with a rug in the conservatory.
