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Your Najaf Rugs Guide – Questions & Answers

Everything you want to know about our rugs and how we work, from how they’re made and where they come from, to ordering, delivery, care, and our long tradition of sourcing and restoring handmade pieces.

ORDERS & SHIPPPING

How much does shipping cost within Australia?

We offer free postage Australia-wide on all rugs, regardless of size or location. Whether you’re in the city or a regional area, your order will be delivered at no extra cost. More details are available here: Shipping & Delivery.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes, we send our rugs to customers all around the world. International delivery costs and timeframes vary depending on the destination and courier services available.

You can read more about the process, including estimated transit times and customs information, on our Shipping & Delivery page.

Will I receive tracking for my order?

Yes! As soon as your rug is on its way, we’ll send you tracking details so you can follow its journey. You can learn more about tracking, updates, and delivery notifications here: Shipping & Delivery.

How long will my order take to arrive?

Delivery times depend on your location. In most cases, Australian deliveries arrive within a few days, while international shipments can take anywhere from 1–4 weeks. Full estimated timeframes for different destinations are available here: Shipping & Delivery.

Can I collect my order instead of having it delivered?

Yes. If you’d like to collect your rug instead of having it delivered, simply select the Pick Up option at checkout.

Collections are from our Prahran store at 461 High St, Prahran VIC 3181. You’ll receive an email to confirm when your order is ready, usually within 2–24 hours.

What should I do if there’s a delivery issue?

Whilst we’ve never had a parcel go missing or arrive damaged, we understand that delays or issues can happen. If something isn’t right with your delivery, please contact us as soon as possible so we can work quickly to resolve it.

We partner with reputable couriers who are experienced in handling handmade rugs, but once your order leaves our store, it’s in their care and occasionally their process may differ from how we’d handle it ourselves.

Rest assured, we’ll do everything we can to make it right.

Can you hold my order for delivery at a later date?

Yes. We can hold your rug and arrange delivery when you’re ready. Just let us know your preferred delivery date when placing your order, or contact us soon after. We’ll store it securely in our warehouse until it’s time to send it.

Do you deliver to PO boxes or parcel lockers?

No, unfortunately we cannot deliver to PO boxes or parcel lockers. Our rugs are sent via courier to street addresses only. If you need help arranging an alternative delivery address, please contact us. More details are available here: Shipping & Delivery.

RETURNS & EXCHANGES

What is your returns policy?

We want you to love your rug. If for any reason it’s not quite right, you can return or exchange full-priced rugs within 4 days of purchase (for in-store orders) or within 4 days of delivery (for online, interstate, or international orders).

Rugs need to be in the same condition they were sold. You can find the full details here: Returns & Exchanges.

Can I exchange my rug for another one?

Absolutely. If you’ve found something else you prefer, you’re welcome to exchange your rug within 4 days of purchase or delivery. Just let us know which rug you’d like, and we can put it aside for you once your original one is on its way back.

More info here: Returns & Exchanges.

What if my rug is faulty or damaged on arrival?

This is very rare, but if something isn’t right, please contact us straight away and include photos so we can help. We’ll work quickly to arrange a replacement, repair, or refund depending on the situation.

You can see how we handle this here: Returns & Exchanges.

Who covers the cost of return shipping?

If you’re returning a rug for any reason other than a fault, return shipping is your responsibility.

For interstate or international returns, we recommend using a tracked and insured courier to keep your rug safe in transit.

All the details are here: Returns & Exchanges.

Can I return a clearance rug?

All clearance rugs are final sale and can’t be returned or exchanged unless they arrive faulty.

You can check the full list of exclusions here: Returns & Exchanges.

PAYMENTS

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept all major credit and debit cards, bank transfer, Afterpay, and in-store payments by cash or EFTPOS.

Unfortunately, we don’t accept PayPal, as their platform doesn’t allow the sale or payment of Iranian goods, which includes many of our rugs. Because of this, we offer a range of alternative secure payment options to make checkout easy and safe.

Do you offer Afterpay or other buy now, pay later options?

Yes! Afterpay is available both online and in-store, allowing you to pay for your rug in instalments over time.

Can I reserve a rug and pay later?

Yes. To reserve a rug, we require a 50% deposit. The remaining balance can be paid at any time within 12 months of the deposit date. Payment can be made in-store, online, or via bank transfer before delivery or collection.

Can I pay by bank transfer?

Yes. If you’d like to pay by bank transfer or direct deposit, please get in touch and we’ll email you an invoice with our bank account details.

As this payment method is handled outside of our website checkout, your order will be processed manually by our team. Once your payment has cleared, we’ll confirm everything with you and prepare your rug for shipping or collection.

Is it safe to shop on your website?

Yes. Our website uses secure payment gateways and SSL encryption to protect your details, so you can shop with confidence.

Do you charge extra fees for card or Afterpay payments?

No, we don’t add any surcharges for using a card or Afterpay.

Do you offer lay-by?

Yes! Lay-by is available in-store. Please contact us to discuss the deposit amount and payment timeframe.

Do you offer gift cards?

Yes! We offer digital gift cards that can be purchased online and emailed directly to the recipient.

Perfect for weddings, housewarmings, or anyone who loves handmade craftsmanship. You can purchase gift cards here.

IN-STORE & APPOINTMENTS

Can I see a rug before buying?

Absolutely. You’re welcome to visit our Prahran store or Rowville warehouse to see rugs in person. If you’ve seen something on our website that you’d like to view, let us know in advance so we can have it ready for you.

Do I need to make an appointment to visit your store?

No, you’re welcome to visit during our opening hours. However, not every rug is available to view at our Prahran store, as our stock is divided between here and our warehouse. If there’s something specific you’d like to see, please contact us ahead so we can arrange to have it ready for you.

Can I take a rug home to try before deciding?

Yes, for local customers we offer a home trial service. You can take rugs home, see how they work with your lighting, furniture, and space, and then decide.

Do you offer virtual viewings for interstate customers?

Yes. We regularly arrange video calls to show rugs in real time. We’ll walk you through the details, textures, and colours so you can choose with confidence.

PRODUCT & SIZING

Are your rugs handmade?

Yes. Every rug we sell is handmade, knotted or woven by skilled artisans, often using techniques passed down for generations. Each one carries the character of the weaver’s hand, with small variations in design, weave, and colour that make it truly one of a kind.

Do the colours in photos look exactly like the rug in person?

We take great care to photograph every rug in natural light, with no unnecessary editing, so the colours you see are as close to the real thing as possible. It’s something we’re genuinely proud of, customers often tell us how true our photos are to the actual rug. In all our years of selling rugs online, we’ve had fewer than 10 returns due to colour concerns.

Colours can still look slightly different depending on your screen settings and the lighting in your home, but if you’d like extra peace of mind, we can send additional photos or videos, or arrange a virtual or in-person viewing before you buy.

How do I know if a rug will suit my space?

Measure your space carefully, compare it to the rug’s dimensions, and think about how much floor you want showing around it. If you need guidance, we’re happy to offer styling advice, show you similar rugs, or even arrange for you to try one in your space (local customers only).

Do you offer custom-sized rugs?

In some cases, yes. We can source or order custom pieces in certain styles, colours, and sizes. If you have something specific in mind, get in touch, we’ll let you know what’s possible.

ORDERS & AVAILABILITY

Can you hold a rug for me?

Yes! With a 50% deposit, we can hold a rug for you for up to 12 months. This is perfect if you’ve found the one but aren’t ready to take it home just yet.

What happens if a rug I want is sold out?

Most of our rugs are one-off pieces, so once they’re sold, they’re gone. But if you’ve missed out, let us know, we may be able to source something similar.

Are there more rugs at your store than online?

No, our entire inventory is listed online. If you’ve seen a rug on our website, you can view it in person by visiting our Prahran store or arranging an appointment at our warehouse. Just let us know in advance so we can have it ready for you.

RUG CARE

How often should I vacuum my rug?

Once or twice a week is enough to keep dust and grit from settling in, but skip the high-powered vacuums, rotating brushes, and harsh suction, they’re too rough for handmade rugs. Gentle care goes a long way. More tips here: Rug Care.

Can I steam clean my rug?

No, steam cleaning and modern carpet machines can cause serious, sometimes irreversible damage to handmade rugs.

If your rug needs a proper deep clean, let us arrange it for you. We work with specialists who treat rugs the way they deserve.

Full details: Rug Care.

What should I do if I spill something?

Act fast. If it’s a liquid, gently scoop it out in the direction of the pile, it should glide right out. Then blot (never rub) with a clean, absorbent cloth to lift out any remaining moisture.

If the mark is stubborn, get in touch and we’ll guide you on the safest way to treat it.

Our full spill-cleaning advice is here: Rug Care.

Do I really need an underlay?

We always recommend an underlay. It helps protect your rug, prevents slipping, adds cushioning, and reduces wear over time. For flatweaves like kilims, an underlay is essential as they can move and bunch without one.

You can read more here: Rug Care or shop our range here: Non-Slip Rug Underlay.

Can I put my rug in storage?

We don’t recommend long-term storage unless it’s absolutely necessary, as it’s one of the most common times moths attack rugs. If you must store your rug, roll it (pile facing inwards) and keep it somewhere with good airflow and natural light. Avoid wrapping it in plastic, and occasionally unroll it to vacuum gently and let it breathe.

More tips: Rug Care.

How do I protect my rug from moths?

Moths thrive in dark, still spaces with no air circulation, and their damage can be difficult and expensive to repair. Keep your rug clean, vacuum it regularly (including underneath), and ensure it’s in a space with some light and airflow. If you suspect moth activity, have it professionally washed and treated as soon as possible. More details: Rug Care.

Can my rug fade in sunlight?

Yes, natural fibres can fade if they’re in direct sunlight for long periods. To keep colours looking their best, rotate your rug every few months so any fading happens evenly, and use curtains or blinds during the brightest part of the day. More care tips: Rug Care.

RUG KNOWLEDGE & BUYING GUIDE

What is the difference between vintage, semi-antique, and antique?

These terms refer to the age of the rug:

  • Vintage: generally 20–70 years old.
  • Semi-Antique: 70–90 years old.
  • Antique: 100 years or more.

All our vintage and antique pieces are checked, washed, and repaired (if needed) before being offered for sale.

When will you get new rugs in?

We receive new shipments 2–3 times a year, each one carefully collected over many months from weaving regions with centuries-old traditions. These aren’t mass-produced products, they’re handmade pieces sourced directly from tribes, villages, and trusted suppliers we’ve built relationships with over decades. Every shipment is a little like opening a treasure chest; no two are ever the same, and all rugs are one-of-a-kind.

The best way to preview what’s on the way is the Arriving Soon page, which we update as containers are en route. For first access when a shipment lands, subscribe to our mailing list at the bottom of the page. We’ll let you know the moment new pieces go live.

If you’re looking for something special, tell us, and we can keep an eye out during our next sourcing trip.

What does it mean when a rug is handmade?

A handmade rug is crafted entirely by human hands, no machines, no shortcuts. The wool or silk is spun, dyed, and woven by skilled artisans, often taking months or even years to complete. This human touch gives each rug its unique character and ensures it will last for generations with proper care.

What’s the difference between hand-knotted, hand-woven, and hand-tufted?

Hand-knotted: The most labour-intensive and durable rug-making method. Each knot is tied by hand onto the warp threads, creating a dense pile that can last a lifetime or more.

Hand-woven: Crafted on a loom without knots, producing a flat surface. This includes styles such as kilims and soumaks, which are prized for their versatility, light weight, and ease of use in different settings.

Hand-tufted: Yarn is punched through a canvas backing using a tufting tool, then secured with glue and an additional backing. We do not sell hand-tufted rugs, as we don’t consider them truly handmade, the process is largely machine-driven, with only human guidance. While they can be a budget-friendly choice, they lack the longevity, craftsmanship, and authenticity of hand-knotted or hand-woven pieces.

Are handmade rugs better than machine-made rugs?

Without question, yes. A machine-made rug can roll off production in as little as two minutes, often made from synthetic materials like polypropylene or polyester, essentially plastic, and still be sold for thousands. These rugs might look fine at first, but they lack soul, wear out quickly, and can release chemicals into your home.

A handmade rug is the opposite. Woven from natural fibres like wool, silk, or cotton, it breathes, naturally regulates temperature, and creates a healthier environment for your home. They’re safer and softer for children to play on, more comfortable underfoot, and built to last for decades, often generations. Over time, they develop a character and beauty that no machine could ever imitate, becoming part of your home’s story.

How can I tell if a rug is handmade?

Flip it over. In a handmade rug, you’ll see the pattern clearly on the back, the knots or weave will be slightly irregular, and the fringe is part of the rug’s foundation, not sewn on afterwards. These small signs tell the story of a rug made by human hands, not by a machine.

ABOUT NAJAF RUGS

Where are your rugs sourced from?

Our rugs come from regions where weaving is more than a craft, it’s a way of life. We source from Afghanistan, Iran, Turkey, and other weaving centres with centuries-old traditions. Many of our pieces are made in small villages or family workshops, using skills passed down through generations. This is why every rug we offer carries not only beauty, but also the story of the hands and heritage behind it.

How long have you been in business?

Najaf Rugs has been part of Australia’s rug landscape for 25+ years. Founded by Najaf Mazari, an Afghan master rug maker who came to Australia as a refugee, our business was built on a deep love for the craft and a commitment to sharing it with others. Over the years, we’ve built a loyal customer base who appreciate not just our rugs, but the care, knowledge, and honesty we bring to every interaction.

You can read more on our incredible history here: About Najaf Rugs.

Who chooses the rugs?

Every single rug is personally selected by Najaf Mazari and his daughter, Maria Mazari. We look for quality of weave, beauty of design, and character, the kind of details you only notice when you’ve been around rugs your whole life. Najaf’s knowledge as a master rug weaver and repairer gives us a real advantage on our sourcing trips, allowing us to assess craftsmanship in a way few others can. We don’t buy in bulk or take “whatever’s available”; each piece earns its place in our collection.

Do you work directly with weavers?

Yes. We have long-standing relationships with weavers, families, and suppliers in multiple regions. This allows us to ensure fair practices, sustainable production, and access to truly exceptional rugs. In many cases, we’ve known the same families for decades, and we take pride in supporting their work and preserving these traditions for the future.

Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? We’re always happy to help!

Whether it’s about your order or just a general enquiry, get in touch.