03/30/2022

Caring for your Rugs Between Cleanings

When we purchased our house, there were six different flooring types on the first floor, and it made me crazy.  We tolerated it because the carpet portion was new, and we had a long-term plan for the first floor that would be difficult to execute if we changed the floors first.  About three years ago, we put hardwood throughout the entire first floor, making me a very happy woman.  I just love the look of hardwoods, especially when they are tied together with a lovely area rug that somehow brings together all the elements of the room.  

The perfect rug can sometimes come at quite a cost, so proper care is important to keep it looking great for years to come.

1. Vacuum Regularly (and Properly) – Vacuum rugs after dusting furniture, blinds, and woodwork so the vacuum cleaner can pick up any dust that has fallen.  Vacuum at least once a week and more often if you have indoor pets or if rugs are placed in high-traffic areas.  When vacuuming, take care not to rush; slower movements give the vacuum cleaner time to pick up the dirt and debris.  If your rug is exceptionally dirty, vacuum in one direction and then make a quarter turn and vacuum the opposite direction.  Never vacuum the fringe.  To clean the fringe, lift the edges of the rug up to clean underneath, and then let it fall back gently.  
2. Change Your Air Filters Regularly – Air filters are designed to remove dust and such from your air, causing less to fall onto your floors and furniture.  If your air filters are saturated with dirt, that means it is collecting on surfaces throughout your house.  Check the instructions on your HVAC system to see how often you should change or clean your filters, but it is likely every 60-90 days.
3. Lose Your Shoes – The best way to keep your rugs cleaner for longer is by not letting dirt come inside in the first place.  Use indoor and outdoor mats, and when you step inside, take your shoes off and leave them at the door.  You would be surprised at what’s on the bottom of your shoes.  
4. Immediately Address Spills – Just as with clothing, the longer a spill sits on your rug, the more difficult it is to remove.  If a spill does occur, blot the area with a dry, white cloth; never use anything with color or print because the dye could transfer to your rug.  Try cleaning the area with cold soapy water, using a mild detergent, then rinse clean and blot dry.  Continue the method if there is a transfer of the spill to the cloth.  Use caution if you decide to use a store-bought stain remover; sometimes they contain hydrogen peroxide, which when left on your rug without thorough rinsing, can continue working over-time and eventually pull the color from your rug.
5. Rotate Your Rugs for Even Wear – Rotating your rugs will help with balance out any fading that’s occurred with sunlight coming through your windows as well as reduce wear and tear from foot traffic.

By doing these things between regular cleanings, which we recommend doing every 12-18 months depending on whether you have pets, your rugs will maintain their beauty far longer.  If you have questions about caring for your Area or Oriental Rugs, feel free to call us at 336-992-0700 or send us a message.