Area rugs tie a room together, adding warmth, softness, and a splash of color. Just like anything that gets walked on, they need some cleaning love. Here’s everything you need to know to clean an area rug:
First Know Your Rug
It’s important to identify what kind of rug you have. Different materials require different cleaning methods. Knowing your rug’s makeup will help you keep it looking its best for years to come. Here’s a quick guide to some common rug materials and their identification tips:
● Woven Rugs:
These rugs, like dhurries and kilims, are typically flatwoven and may contain wool, cotton, or a blend of both. Look for a flat weave with a geometric or patterned design.
● Braided Rugs:
Often made from leftover fabric scraps or natural fibers like jute, braided rugs add a touch of rustic charm.
● Hand-Knotted Heirlooms:
These luxurious rugs are known for their intricate designs and fine craftsmanship. They are typically made from wool or silk and may have a label indicating the origin and knot count.
● Plush Piles:
Deep, cushiony piles are characteristic of rugs made from materials like shag, Saxony, and frieze. They come in various fiber types, including wool, nylon, and polyester.
● Natural Fiber:
Coir, sisal, rush, and seagrass rugs are popular choices for entryways and mudrooms due to their durability and natural look. They are made from tough plant fibers and have a distinctive open weave.
How to do Basic Rug Care
Once you’ve identified your rug’s material, now you can move on to the cleaning process! Most area rugs benefit from a regular care routine to keep dirt and debris at bay. Here’s what you can do:
● Vacuuming is Key:
Just like with carpets, regular vacuuming is your best friend when it comes to area rugs. Vacuum both sides, especially if your rug is reversible. This removes dirt and grime that can wear down the fibers over time. Be gentle on fringes and avoid the beater bar on shag rugs to prevent tangling.
● Brush Away Pet Hair:
Sometimes, vacuuming leaves behind stubborn pet hair. Use a stiff brush to remove it, following the direction of the rug’s nap.
● Rotate and Shake (When Possible):
Foot traffic and sunlight can put uneven stress on rugs. To prevent them from wearing unevenly, rotate them every year or so. For smaller rugs, take them outside and shake them out (double-check local ordinances first!). This helps remove loose dirt and debris.
Special Care for Special Rugs
Some rug materials require a bit more attention. Here’s how to tackle some common types:
● Woven or Braided Beauties:
Check the care tag for washing instructions. Small, washable rugs can go in a zippered pillowcase or mesh laundry bag on a gentle cycle with cool water. For larger ones, use a commercial carpet cleaning foam on a vinyl or concrete floor, following the product directions.
● Hand-Knotted Heirlooms:
Antique and Oriental rugs often need professional cleaning once a year. Vacuum gently, using a screen or mesh attachment to protect delicate fibers. Regular rotation and avoiding direct sunlight will help prevent fading.
● Coir, Sisal, Rush, and Grass Rugs:
● Sheepskin and Hair-on-Hides:
For these luxurious rugs, sprinkle some unscented talcum powder on the fur, leave it for a few hours, then brush it out. Repeat as needed. To clean the backing, use a damp cloth with lukewarm soapy water, then rinse and dry completely.
Pro Tip: When buying an antique rug, ask the seller for care recommendations specific to the rug’s fiber content and construction.
How to Banish Stains from Clean Rugs
You can banish most stains and restore your rug to its former glory. Here’s a breakdown of effective cleaning methods for common rug stains:
● Common Beverage Stains:
Mix 1 teaspoon of liquid dishwashing detergent with 1 quart of warm water and ¼ teaspoon of white vinegar. Apply the solution to the stain, rinse the area thoroughly, and then blot it dry with a clean cloth.
● Coffee and Tea Spills:
Follow the same cleaning method as for alcohol and soft drinks. If a faint stain persists, consider using a commercially available carpet stain remover specifically designed for removing coffee and tea stains.
● Dealing with Fatty Stains:
Butter, margarine, or gravy spills require a different approach. Go for a dry-solvent spot carpet cleaner specifically formulated for tackling greasy messes.
● Removing Chewing Gum:
First carefully peel off as much gum as possible by hand. Then, place ice cubes in a plastic bag and press it onto the remaining gum to harden it. Once hardened, use a spoon or a dull knife to scrape off the gum. Vacuum the area and, if any residue remains, use a dry-solvent spot cleaner following the product instructions.
● Acrylic and Latex Paint:
For Acrylic and Latex paint it’s important to act fast! While the paint is still wet, use the detergent solution (mentioned earlier) to spot-clean the affected area. If a stubborn stain persists, carefully dab the area with rubbing alcohol.
For oil-based paint mishaps, use a sponge dampened with odorless mineral spirits to blot the stain. Be cautious not to oversaturate the rug, as the mineral spirits might seep through to the backing and cause damage.
● Cleaning Up Food Stains:
Start by sponging the stain with cool water. Next, dab the area with the detergent solution or a citrus-oxygen cleaner specifically designed for carpets. Rinse the cleaned area with a solution of 1 cup white vinegar mixed with 2 cups of water. Finally, blot the area with a clean cloth until dry.
● Pet Accidents and Vomit Stains:
These unpleasant surprises require a similar cleaning approach. Apply the detergent solution or a citrus-oxygen cleaner to the affected area, rinse thoroughly, and blot dry with a clean cloth.
● Removing Melted Wax:
Follow the same steps as for removing gum.
- Harden the wax with ice cubes in a plastic bag, then scrape it off with a spoon or a dull knife.
- For any remaining wax residue, dampen a clean white cloth or cotton ball with rubbing alcohol and blot the area gently.
Remember: It’s important to test the cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area of your rug to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration. By following these targeted cleaning methods and acting promptly, you can keep your rugs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I tell if my rug can be washed in a washing machine?
The best way to determine if your rug is machine-washable is to check the care label. Look for symbols or instructions that specifically mention machine washing. If the label says “dry clean only,” avoid machine washing as it could damage the fibers or cause colors to bleed.
In the absence of a care label, you can cautiously proceed if you’re confident the rug is made from a colorfast material like acrylic. However, it’s generally recommended to err on the side of caution. Wool and silk rugs, for example, are delicate and prone to shrinkage or damage in a washing machine, so professional dry cleaning is a safer option.
Q: How often should I vacuum my rug ?
The ideal vacuuming frequency for your rug depends on several factors, including:
- Foot traffic: High-traffic areas experience more dust, dirt, and debris buildup compared to low-traffic zones.
- Presence of pets: Pets contribute fur, dander, and tracked-in dirt, necessitating more frequent vacuuming.
- Material of the rug: Rugs with a higher pile tend to trap more dirt, requiring more frequent cleaning.
A good rule of thumb to keep in mind for each of the above scenarios is to vacuum your rug at least twice a week.
looking fresh and stain-free.