Area Rug Care & Maintenance

Area rugs are a beautiful focal point in a room, bringing color, warmth, and a comforting feel underfoot. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to ensure the longevity of your rug. When it comes to deep cleaning, you can either entrust it to a professional by rolling it up and sending it out or take a DIY approach, saving you a significant amount of money.

Before cleaning any area rug, check the manufacturer's maintenance recommendations. All manufacturers will have different ways to maintain area rugs.

We recommend the following effective ways to clean your rug and remove stains without breaking the bank.

Start by vacuuming the rug on both sides to eliminate surface dirt and debris. Use the brush attachment for effective removal of pet hair. Place the rug outdoors flat on a waterproof surface, such as a driveway or patio.

For those using store-bought rug shampoo, carefully follow the provided instructions for mixing and cleaning. Alternatively, you can create your own cleaner by combining a few squirts of liquid dish soap with a bucket of warm water. Avoid using hot water to prevent potential shrinking and fading of the rug. Before cleaning, conduct a colorfastness test in a small, inconspicuous area to ensure the solution won't cause color bleeding. If the colors remain stable, you're ready to proceed.

Apply the cleaning solution to the rug using a sponge or a soft-bristled cleaning brush, working it into a lather. Be cautious not to oversaturate the rug. Allow the cleaner to sit on the rug for 5 minutes. Utilize a garden hose to rinse off the rug thoroughly. Use a wet/dry vacuum to extract as much water as possible from the rug. Leave the rug outdoors until it's fully dry before reintroducing the clean area rug to its designated spot in the house. If necessary, flip it over to ensure each side dries thoroughly.

Wondering how to clean a Persian rug? We recommend you take it to a professional. Persian rugs are expensive, and you don't want to ruin one with a DIY cleaning job. Spot-clean them only.

For stain removal, mix 1 teaspoon liquid dish soap, 1 quart of warm water, and 1 teaspoon of vinegar. Apply the cleaner to the stain using a soft cloth, gently blotting instead of rubbing to prevent matting of fibers. Allow the solution to sit on the spot for at least five minutes. Rinse out the soap using a clean cloth dipped in water, and then blot with a dry towel to facilitate drying.

For persistent stains or to address mold and mildew, spot clean with a mixture consisting of one part hydrogen peroxide to five parts water.