Though very similar, area rugs are different from carpets in the home. They offer unique patterns, texture, and color to your designs to any room, but area rugs require special care. Today, we at Carpet Care 2000 would like to share the basics of area rug cleaning and the optimal and effective methods for removing spots and stains. No matter their size or material, below you will find the standard steps and tips to keeping your area rug looking glorious.
Vacuum Area Rugs Often
Contrary to popular belief, the dirt and debris wear the fibers of the rugs down quicker than vacuuming does. To help extend the life of your rugs, vacuuming on regular basis can reduce the wear. Be sure to turn down the setting before vacuuming shag rug and avoid vacuuming any edge fringe.
Remove Pet Hair from Rugs with a Brush
Some vacuums are not highly effective at removing pet hair from the area rug; and reducing the volume is better on the vacuum regardless. Once a week use a stiff brush to gently remove pet hair as a more efficient alternative.
Periodically throughout the year, rotate the area rugs. Instead of keeping the wear from foot traffic concentrated in one area or path, every few months, rotate the area rug to help make sure that the rug wears and fades evenly by distributing the foot traffic and sun exposure.
Shake Out the Debris from Your Area Rugs
Once every week or two, or more often if you can spare the time; the more the better, take the rugs outside and shake them vigorously. Also, use a paddle or tennis racket to loosen and remove dirt and particles that wear your rugs out faster, making the vacuuming process even more effective.
Deep Cleaning Area Rug
For starters, look for the label on your rug to see if there are any special care instructions or warnings. In some instances, there are area rugs that require dry-cleaning or spot cleaning only.
Machine Washable Rugs
Place the small machine-washable rugs in a mesh bag and wash them on a delicate cycle. Do not use warm water unless otherwise instructed from the label’s instructions and do not put them in the dryer as they can shrink and set in any tough stains. Wash your rugs on cold then hang them to dry in a well-ventilated area, outside is optimal if weather permits.
Stain Removal for Area Rug
Because you will only force the substance in the fibers deeper in the fibers, never scrub or rub. Gently blot away any moisture first. Use your choice of homemade solution or a store-bought stain remover to treat the residual stains. A multi-stain remover is mixing 1 teaspoon dishwashing detergent, 4 cups of warm water, and ¼ teaspoon white vinegar in a spray bottle. Be sure to conduct a patch test in a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it is used safely without compromising the rug or color.
Area Rug Cleaning, Stain Remoal & More in Tracy, Livermore, San Ramon, Dublin, Mountain House, Walnut Creek, Danville & the East Bay of California
For professional rug cleaning, call Carpet Care 2000 and let our specialists ensure your rugs are cleaned and sanitized for a vibrant, fresh result.