Zilu, a traditional mat characterized by a firm texture, smooth surface, and lint-free quality, has origins predating Islam. The warp and weft used in Zilu weaving are typically made of cotton and dyed with natural materials. The unique weaving techniques and patterns distinguish Zilu from rugs and other tapestries. This craft was registered on Iran's National Heritage List in 2011 (1390 in the Persian calendar) under registration number 246. Currently, a section of the Shah Abbasi Caravanserai in Maybod is dedicated to a museum showcasing Zilu. The Zilus displayed in the museum, some of which are approximately 500 years old, are often in poor condition and highly susceptible to damage from environmental factors such as moisture, dust, air pollutants, light, and temperature fluctuations. This study is based on the premise that dust, influenced by the local climate, is a primary factor contributing to the deterioration of Zilus in Maybod. The research aims to identify harmful environmental factors affecting the museum's Zilus and propose methods to mitigate their damaging effects. The primary objective is to enhance the preservation of these historical and cultural artifacts. The current storage conditions in the museum are inadequate, and the continuation of these conditions could result in irreparable damage to these valuable objects. The study seeks to identify environmental factors causing damage to the museum's Zilus through comprehensive environmental monitoring. Data were collected from library research, field observations, and laboratory analysis, employing both empirical and analytical methods. Field studies focused on monitoring the museum's environmental conditions and comparing them to international standards. The findings indicate that the museum's environmental conditions are substandard, with dust and temperature fluctuations identified as significant contributors to deterioration. Notably, human factors were found to cause the most substantial damage.
