Area rugs have grown greatly in popularity in recent years due to the influx of hard surface flooring. If you have made such a purchase, you might be wondering how to best maintain your prized investment. Here are some helpful tips in this regard:
Vacuum
Area rugs should be vacuumed on a weekly basis, just like your wall to wall carpet, depending upon the level of foot traffic in your home. Fringes should be hand vacuumed due to their more delicate nature.
Rotate
Just as you should flip your mattress for even wear, area rugs should also be rotated on a regular basis. Rotating your rug 1-2 times per year will evenly distribute wear giving your rug a more uniform look over time. This will also help to even out fading from sunlight coming in through your windows.
Spot Clean
When spots or spills occur, immediately blot up the excess. Lightly dilute the area with water and then continue blotting (making sure not to rub as this can ruin fibers) until there is no more transfer of color onto a white cloth. If a spotting solution is needed, be sure to only use one recommended by our IICRC certified professionals.
As some dyes in area rugs are known to bleed, it is recommended you always test a spotting method in an inconspicuous area prior to treating a larger area in the center of your rug. For more details on spot cleaning your area rug, please visit our spotting tips page.
Purchase High Quality Underlayment
Placing a good quality underlayment under your rug will help your rug will wear more evenly as it helps to protect and stabilize your rug’s fibers. As an added benefit, you will find your rug is more comfortable to walk on!
Professional Cleaning
Area rugs should be professionally washed every 1-3 years depending upon the amount of foot traffic in your household. Regular washing will prevent the unhealthy buildup of soil thereby restoring your rug’s fibers to their natural beauty. In the interim, professional rug dusting can go a long ways to loosen and remove soils from deep within your fibers.
For more helpful tips on area rug maintenance or to schedule a professional rug washing, contact the experts at Preferred Carpet Care of Redding. We have the knowledge and skill needed to maintain your beautiful hand woven work of art!