4 Area Rug Cleaning Tips

Area rugs are often chosen over carpeting because they are cost-effective, they can be moved easily and they are often thought to be low-maintenance (depending on the material). However, area rugs can take on just as much wear-and-tear as other carpeting, and they require frequent care and attention in order to stay looking new and appealing. When it comes to cleaning area rugs, you will likely use spot-cleaning methods in between cleaning the entire rug. Below are some area rug cleaning tips to help you clean your area rugs efficiently and effectively.

Vacuum the Rug

Whether you’re spot-cleaning or completely cleaning the entire rug, you should never proceed without first vacuuming the rug. Adding moisture to a dirty rug can attract more dirt and will reinforce the dirt and debris that is already within the fibers. Vacuuming your area rug on both sides will loosen and remove dirt, dust and other debris, making it easier to remove stains and effectively clean the rug.

Choose the Right Cleaning Solution

This is one of the most important rug cleaning tips, as the wrong solution can cause discoloration of your rug or shrink the fibers. Some area rugs have a tag on the bottom with instructions for cleaning. If not, you can use a store-bought area rug cleaning solution or simply combine mild detergent with warm water. Do not use water that is too hot, as this can also cause the fibers to shrink. Whichever solution you use, test it on a corner of the rug before applying it to larger sections.

Removing Stains

With your cleaning solution, use a sponge or soft brush to work the solution into the rug. Using a brush that is too abrasive or scrubbing too hard can damage the rug and is not any more effective at removing the stain. Allow the solution to sit for a few minutes before rinsing it away, allowing it to do most of the work for you. If there is still a little bit of a stain, rinse the area and apply white vinegar to remove the stain. Vinegar acts as a universal cleaning agent and is effective and safe to use on most area rugs.

Rinse and Dry Thoroughly

After applying the cleaning solution, it is ideal to rinse both sides of the entire rug with a hose to ensure all soap and solution residue is removed. Soap and solution that is left to dry in the rug can ruin the texture of the rug and cause its own stain. To dry, hang the rug somewhere with decent air flow or lay the rug on a durable, non-carpeted floor to dry. When one side is dry, flip it over to dry the other side. Once the rug is dry, go over it with a vacuum or a dry soft-bristled brush to loosen and “fluff” the fibers.

Area Rugs Need Professional Cleaning, Too

These rug cleaning tips are effective, but area rugs still require professional cleaning from time to time. Stanley Steemer of South Florida is known for its expert carpet cleaning, and that goes for area rugs, too! We offer in-home professional cleaning with methods that are specific to area rugs. Our technicians are specially trained to determine the proper tools and cleaning solution based on the type of area rug to ensure the most effective results. To learn more about area rug cleaning by Stanley Steemer of South Florida, visit our website or give us a call today at (888) 982-3553.