Area rugs are a great way to add warmth and character to your decoration, but after prolonged use, they will need a good cleaning to look like new. For many modern rugs, cleaning can be a once-a-year DIY project which saves you the cost of specialist cleaning. If your rug is tagged with specific cleaning instructions, follow those.
Generally, area rugs just need to be deep cleaned annually. Here are a few ways to determine if it is time for Rug Cleaning in Monte Sereno:
1. Lift a corner of the rug and lightly kick the back. If the rug releases a large cloud of dust, it definitely needs some attention.
2. Run your hand against the rug face in a circular motion for 10 seconds, then look at your palm; if your hand is dirty, then so is the rug.
3. Check for signs of deeply embedded dirt by looking at the rug backing. Deep-down dirt will settle along the warp and weft of the rug and can be seen in the backing.
Cleaning a rug only requires a couple of basic tools. You may need:
Rug beater or broom
Rug shampoo or safe cleaning solution
Two 5 gallon buckets
Large sponges
Towels
Large tarp
Fan
Try to pick a time to clean your rugs if there will be three or four sunny, hot days together. It could be easier to clean your rugs outdoors, and sun and warm air will help them dry more quickly and thoroughly. Plus, the sun is a natural and effective deodorizer, which will keep most of the dust and dirt from the house. Whether an outdoor area isn’t available, use any floor area that moisture will not damage (like concrete or vinyl floor in the kitchen or kitchen.)
Shake or conquer Require smaller rugs and darkened rugs outdoors and give them a good shake to release loose dust and dirt. If the rug is large, ask a partner for help to hang the rug above a porch railing or over a couple solid chairs. Do not forget to shake out the rug pad too.
Mix the cleaner: Make a cleaning solution as instructed by your preferred rug shampoo, or blend two to three teaspoons of mild dish soap into among the 5-gallon buckets with warm water.
Examine the rug for colorfastness: Prior to cleaning a rug with any type of solution, it needs to be tested for colorfastness to prevent harm. Dab the cleaning solution on a tiny corner of the rug with a white towel. Check to see if any color transfers to the towel. Let the test spot dry thoroughly, then check again to make certain colours haven’t bled or faded.
Scrub, if needed: When the rug is colorfast, apply the soap solution to the rug with a soft-bristle brush or sponge. Dip the sponge/brush to the cleaning solution. Do not over-wet the fibers–just use as much as required. Function in a 3- by 3-foot area. Rinse out the sponge/brush frequently so the dirt will not be transferred.
Scrub the rug thoroughly: It’s important not to leave any soap substance on the rug. Dip a clean sponge at the rinse water and remove any soap in the area just cleaned.
Blot: Push out as much excess water as you can using a squeegee and moving in the path of the rug nap. Utilize the towels to absorb any excess moisture. Scrub, rinse and blot an area before moving into the next.
Allow the rug dry completely prior to bringing it back inside, rotating it periodically to promote even drying. Once inside, turn on fans to encourage greater air circulation and help the rug dry more completely.
Adjust rug fibers: When the rug has dried thoroughly, lightly go over the rug with a vacuum or a soft-bristle brush to Blend the fibers.
Steam cleaners: If your rug is extremely soiled, it could be well worth it to let a commercial steam cleaner. Vacuum the rug first, then follow the company’s instructions about how best to operate the machine.
Check related blogs about Rug Cleaning:
Make A Weekly Cleaning Schedule in Monte Sereno
What Type Of Rug Is Easiest To Keep Clean in Monte Sereno
