There is a major misconception that you clean large area rugs just like carpet. However, this isn’t true at all. Rugs and carpets are made with different materials and use different manufacturing methods. Depending on the type of rug, it will vary on its exact cleaning method. If improperly cleaned, you can permanently damage your rug. Carpet Care 2000 will share the basics of cleaning rugs and how they differ from carpets.
Carpet Manufacturing Process
Many large area rugs are either of a Persian or Oriental make and design. Both types of rug do not get cleaned like carpet for a few reasons. When carpet is made, they use a large machine that uses a synthetic material where 15 feet of carpet per minute is created. During carpet manufacturing a strong adhesive and plastic are used as the backing of carpet which strengthens and reinforces the carpet. Due to the carpet’s design, it can be deep cleaned with a steam or dry-chem cleaners without damaging it.
How Hand Knotted Rugs Are Made
Rugs are often hand made by using a unique knotting system with natural materials. Real Persian or oriental rugs never use synthetic materials. A real Persian or Oriental rug usually takes anywhere from one month to two years to create. Oriental rugs are usually made of wool or blends of other animal fibers. Oriental rugs also never use any adhesives or other strengtheners or reinforcements. When cleaning rugs, unlike carpets, you will need to clean both the top and bottom of each side of the rug.
What Are Oriental & Persian Rugs Made of?
Other types of rugs, such as Persian rugs, will use other natural materials or cloth like silk, cotton, and jute. These material types require special care and cleaning methods which is why it is important to know what blend of materials were used to create the rug. You should never use abrasive cleaning machines or chemicals, or you can permanently damage the rug.
How to Clean an Area Rug
When it comes to caring for rugs, it is recommended you regularly vacuum the rug and clean stains as they occur. Make sure you are ready and understand your rug’s cleaning instructions and of course, know what material your rug is made from. For deep cleanings it is strongly encouraged for you to use a professional rug cleaner for accurate and proper cleaning. If you’ve never cleaned your area rug before, look for the rug’s tag that’s usually on the underside of the rug and follow the cleaning instructions. It is important to follow the cleaning instruction for many reasons. Some dyes used in rugs are very sensitive and will fade or discolor easily. Some fabric blends of wool and cotton shrink when exposed to hot water, which is why you need to know when to use or not use warm or hot water to clean area rugs. Most rugs require cold water for this reason. Other damage due to improper cleaning methods is when the fibers unravel and slowly keep unweaving over time.
Area Rug Cleaning Services & More in Tracy, Livermore, San Ramon, Dublin, Mountain House, Walnut Creek, Danville & the East Bay of California
If you need to clean your large area rugs, regardless to what type of rug you have, remember that they do not get cleaned like carpets. Make sure you know what rug you have and how to properly clean it when it needs it. If you want to put the responsibility on a professional’s shoulders, contact Carpet Care 2000. We provide many services, including area rug cleaning. Contact Carpet Care 2000 and schedule out services today!
