Area rugs make an eye-catching addition to any room. Yet spills and unsightly stains can also draw unwanted attention. In this post, we’ll share tips to clean area rugs so that you can enjoy them year-round.
One note of caution at the start: Please be sure to reference your area rug warranty for specific care requirements! The following tips and facts should serve as general information only.
Regular cleaning: Regular vacuuming will help rugs retain their beauty and will extend their useful life. In light to medium traffic areas, vacuum twice weekly. In heavy traffic areas, vacuum daily.
Shag-type rugs: Care must be taken to protect the cable yarn when you’re vacuuming your rug. Long yarns tend to wrap around beater-bars, and vacuum brushes will damage the fiber. To avoid this problem, disconnect the beater-bar (consult your vacuum owner’s manual). You might also buy a carpet rake to use in conjunction with your vacuum. With the beater-bar disconnected, set your vacuum to the lowest height setting (for best suction), rake the carpet to loosen soil and then follow with the vacuum.
Occasional cleaning: Professional carpet cleaning is recommended periodically using the hot water extraction method. Do not dry clean your rugs or use bleach.
Handling spills: Clean food and beverage spills immediately. Be sure to blot only—do not rub or scrub!—using a clean cloth, then spot clean with a solution of clear dishwashing detergent and water (1/4 tsp. dishwashing detergent to 1 quart of warm water). Rinse with water and blot dry.
If you’re ready to give your area rugs the love they deserve, the cleaning tips we’ve shared here can be a practical first step. Remember to consult your area rug warranty before getting started, then watch as your rug once again transforms your living spaces!