How to Clean Rugs

Rugs can be an important part of your home. They add beauty and interest to the different areas of your house, and can also work to protect the flooring beneath it. Rugs can help bring unity to furniture groupings and give character to otherwise boring rooms.

Just like any other kind of floor material, rugs require regular cleaning to keep them in the best shape possible. Whether the rug is small or takes up most of a room, it will need to be cleaned correctly every so often. For rugs placed in a high-traffic zone, you may need to do a cleaning more regularly.

In order to keep your rugs clean and in good shape, consider the following ideas:

• Vacuum your rugs often to stop dirt and dust from accumulating. This step is especially important in households with those sensitive to allergens.
• Clean up messes when they are fresh to reduce the chances of staining. If there is a spill, absorb it quickly by blotting with a dry towel or rag. Remember to blot the spot only: don't try to wipe the area or you may just spread the stain and force it deep into the fibers.
• Remove stains using a commercial carpet or rug cleaner and a rag or brush. Before you do this, however, be sure to check any labels on the rug so you can avoid ruining the fibers.
• Some smaller rugs can be cleaned in the washing machine. If this is the case, you can remove access dirt by vacuuming the rug, then throw it in the washing machine. Hang rugs to dry, unless the label states that it is safe to tumble dry.
• Rotate area rugs on a regular basis. This will help the rug to wear more evenly over time.
• For especially delicate or expensive rugs, it is advisable to hire a professional to clean the rug for you. This ensures that the rug does not get damaged during the cleaning process, and will offer the best possible cleaning results.
• Does your rug take up most of a room? Use a carpet shampooer or steamer to deep clean the rug without needing to send it to a professional cleaner.

If you keep your rugs clean, they will last for many years and can look like new for a long time. Vacuum often, clean up spills as soon as possible, and give the rug a deep cleaning on a regular basis to ensure long life.