My sister-in-law gave us a lovely rug as a house warming gift 10 years ago. I prefered using the old wash and rinse method of cleaning it. It wasn’t anything very expensive but it was, is, lovely.

I lifted it to wash and store away for the summer but was saddened to see a thick layer of yellow dust like stuff exactly where the rug was laying. It seems the bottom layer of the rug has aged and is crumbling away into dust.

Is there anything I can do to save it?

I live in an apartment in California and have lived int he same place for 10 years. My carpets are in need of replacement, is my landlord ever required to cover the cost?
I also very much like my apartment otherwise and want to remain, so I dont want to threaten to leave if he doesnt replace the carpet.