3 Tips To Help Care For Your Rug
Rugs are a fun way to add flare to your home's interiors. Apart from looking good, they collect dust floating around your room. Thus the rug acts as an air filter to rid your home of dust and allergens. However, when the rugs are dirty, they can no longer do their job. Additionally, some are expensive and will need adequate care to be durable. Here are three great tips to get you started.
1. Regular Vacuuming
Vacuuming your area rug once a week is sufficient to keep it in top shape. However, if your rug experiences more foot traffic or you have pets, aim for more frequent vacuuming. As soon as you buy the rug, choose a vacuuming schedule and be consistent with the timelines. Regular vacuuming will prevent grime and dirt from embedding in your rug fibers. If grime sticks to your rug over time, it will be harder to clean.
Ensure you use a vacuum with an adjustable pile height setting and set it to the correct pile for your rug. A low pile setting will damage a high pile rug. And, a high pile setting will not thoroughly clean a low pile rug. Vacuum both sides of the rug, if it is reversible, to remove the dirt that will prematurely wear it out.
2. Clean Spills Immediately
As soon as you notice spills or stains, clean them. If you are dealing with a spill, quickly and gently blot it up with a clean cloth. Do not rub the spill, as it will spread further on your rug fibers and cause a stain. Scrape the spill with a spoon if it is semi-solid. Then treat and vacuum it dry.
Also, check the rug's tag to know if you can launder, dry clean, or spot clean the spill or stain. A dry-clean-only rug means the rug is colorfast. Hence, patch-test before you clean it.
If you decide to DIY clean a stain, most of the cleaning supplies will probably be in your kitchen. Some products you can use to treat stains include:
- White vinegar—removes tomato and berry stains
- Club soda—eliminates acidic stains such as wine, coffee, and juice
- One quart of warm water, a quarter of a spoon of white vinegar, and one teaspoon of liquid dishwashing soap—this works as an all-purpose rug cleaner
Apply the suitable cleaning solution to the stain, then blot the area to rinse with a damp cloth (in lukewarm water). Repeat the process a few times for better results.
If it is a dry stain, consider a professional rug cleaning company.
3. Schedule Regular Professional Rug Washing
Professional rug washing is the best way to ensure your rug lasts long. Vacuuming and DIY cleaning are vital for maintaining it. However, rug cleaners can reverse a lot of day-to-day damage and buildup.
Let the professionals know the details like the fringes on your rug or any concerns like spills and stains. This information will make them aware of the cleaning techniques and supplies to use.
Contact a local rug cleaning service to learn more.