About Us

In 1936, George Riley Mercer founded George R. Mercer Rug Company at 3116 West Moore Street in West Richmond. Shortly thereafter, George talked his brother Marshall into leaving the insurance business and accepting a half-share interest in this newly formed rug operation, and becoming an active “hands-on” partner. The name was altered slightly to Mercer Rug Cleansing and Storing Company.

During its first full year of business Mercer Rug Cleansing netted $4000.00. The plant site was situated in the midst of fields and could be reached only by a dirt road. A lot has changed since those early days, and while the two brothers have passed away, the company they crafted and shaped continues to operate under the ownership of the founding family. Mercer Rug Cleansing's location is still enviable because a light industrial area has grown up around it, named Scott’s Addition, and is easily accessible to its expanding customer base from all directions.

For more than 70 years, Mercer Rug Cleansing’s success can be attributed to its knack for “building a better mousetrap”: for getting the job done with care and pride, for creating innovative ideas in rug cleaning, for providing better overall service, and for implementing conscientious business practices so as to earn the loyalty of employees and the patronage of a growing customer list.

Mercer building To this day, Mercer Rug Cleansing is a company that operates “quietly” but “confidently” with proven and time-tested equipment, new techniques, and dedicated professionals on-site. Mercer Rug Cleansing is clearly the Richmond’s area choice for cleaning and restoring fine Oriental rugs. This is a company engaged in the community and committed to perpetuating the legacy of its founder.

We are a proud member of the Better Business Bureau, the Scott's Addition Business Association and the Restoration Industry Association.