6 Tips For Area Rug Washing | How To Keep Your Rugs Looking And Feeling Their Best
Rugs are a beautiful and functional addition to your home, providing warmth, comfort, and aesthetic appeal. However, they can accumulate dirt, dust, and other debris that detracts from their appearance and causes them to deteriorate more quickly. Regular cleaning is essential to maintaining the look and feel of your area rugs, but there is a right way and a wrong way to do area rug washing. Here's what you need to know.
Vacuum First
Before area rug washing, it's important to remove any dust or dirt. Use a vacuum cleaner with a bare floor setting or a handheld vacuum to remove debris from the rug's surface. Be careful not to use the beater bar on the vacuum, as it can damage some of the more fragile rugs.
Check the Tag
Like your clothes, area rugs often have care tags with instructions on how to clean them. Before you start washing your area rug, make sure to check the tag for any specific cleaning instructions. Some rugs may require special care or cleaning products, and failing to follow the manufacturer's guidelines could damage the rug or void the warranty.
Treat Stains
If there are any stains or spots on the rug, it's best to pre-treat them before you start area rug washing. Use a clean, white cloth to blot the stain, starting at the outside edge and working your way in to prevent outward spreading. Use a mixture of mild dish soap and warm water or a stain-removing solution specifically designed for area rugs.
Use a Gentle Cleaning Solution
For most area rugs, a mild cleaning solution made from dish soap, white vinegar, and warm water is sufficient. Test a small, inconspicuous area of the rug first to ensure the solution doesn't cause discoloration. Use a sponge or soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the rug in the direction of the fibers.
Rinse Thoroughly
After scrubbing the rug, rinse it thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. Blot the area rug dry. Be careful not to twist the fibers, as this can damage the rug. Once the rug is as dry as possible, you can hang it over a railing or lay it flat to air dry.
Consider Professional Cleaning
If your area rug is particularly large, delicate, valuable, or heavily soiled, you may want to consider professional cleaning. Professional rug cleaners have the knowledge, experience, and equipment to safely and effectively handle any area rug washing. They can also apply protective treatments to help prevent future stains and damage.
With a little care and attention, your area rugs can continue to enhance the beauty and comfort of your home for many years to come.
Contact a local area rug cleaning service to learn more.