Area Rug Cleaning and Care

posted December 7, 2011 Posted in: Rug Cleaning

Area Rug Care

Area rugs trap dust, dirt, odors, and oils due to foot traffic, pet accidents, smoking, and various spills. Proper area rug cleaning and care are important to extend the life of your rug and ensure it looking its best. However, despite being pretty resilient and hiding dirt well, rugs are eventually damaged as a result of debris accumulation and improper care and cleaning. Dust and dirt penetrate to the base of the rug and collect there, overtime damaging the fibers. The following tips outline basic rug care.

Vacuum between Professional Area Rug Cleanings

Proper cleaning includes regularly vacuuming your rug on both sides. Although vacuuming does not remove all debris from deep within the rug’s pile, it certainly removes some of the dirt and dust and reduces allergens that are trapped within the fibers. Vacuuming keeps rugs fairly clean between professional cleanings.

Rotate Rug for Even Wear

Positioning your area rug in a bright and sunlit room will cause fading. However, using blinds or drapes to block direct sunlight will prevent some sun damage. Another option to reduce uneven wear and fading is to rotate your area rug annually.

Keep Heavy Furniture Away from Area Rugs

Placing heavy furniture on area rugs may crush the fibers and create dents. However, using furniture coasters will prevent depressions in the rug.

Invest in Rug Pad

Rug pads extend the life of your rug. They prevent slipping, absorb sound and provide cushioning and softness. A custom pad is a good investment for area rug owners.

Stay Away from Do-It-Yourself Area Rug Cleaning

Blotting a spill with paper towels is the first step to containing the damage. Using chemicals and cleaning solutions designed for synthetic carpets should be avoided, as harsh detergents are abrasive and may damage your area rug. Moreover, applying water to stains is not recommended. Dyes may run and bleed, discoloring the rug and damaging the floor underneath.

Professionally Clean Area Rugs

No rug treatment replaces occasional professional cleaning. Even with regular home care, professional area rug cleaning is a must to extend the life of your rug and bring out its natural beauty and bright colors. The average time recommended between professional cleanings is every 12-18 months. However, if your rug is in a heavy traffic area, if you have pets, or if you suffer form airborne allergies, you may need to clean more often. Only professional area rug cleaning removes pet urine odors and other pet allergens, cigarette smoke, mold spores and dust mites and only professional rug cleaning insures that the cleaning method does not make dyes bleed and cause damage to your rug.

*If you are looking to have your area rugs cleaned professionally, call Dalworth Rug Cleaning at 1 800 459 2563. We are family owned and operated since 1976 and we strive to meet and exceed your rug cleaning expectations with our attention to detail and our meticulous cleaning process.