Rugs hold lots of dirt long before they look dirty or get noticed. This, coupled with the dense fibres used in making them, makes rug cleaning a challenging task demanding specialised care and attention. If you are looking for rug cleaning near me, here is a quick expert guide on cleaning rugs like a pro.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean Rugs
Here’s everything you’ll need for a thorough rug cleaning;
- Bucket
- Rug shampoo or cleaner
- Spray bottle
- Soft bristle brush
- Water
- Rubber gloves
- Garden horse
- Wet-dry vacuum
Step 1: Clear Furniture and Any Objects Off the Rug
Remove all the furniture or objects on the rug to allow full access for cleaning. Place it outside on a drop cloth or a large piece of plastic. Avoid placing the carpet directly on the ground, especially on wet or rainy days.
Step 2: Remove Dirt and Debris
Vacuum both sides of the rug, ensuring it is completely dirt or debris-free. This is crucial in ensuring no particles are embedded during the cleaning process.
Step 3: Mix the Cleaner
Mix rug shampoo with water to create a cleaning solution. Avoid pouring carpet shampoo on the rugs, as the harsh chemicals may be too strong for the rug fibre.
Step 4: Perform a Colour Test
Do a colour test to a small, inconspicuous rug corner before full application. Verify colourfastness, ensuring the colour doesn’t bleed before moving to the next step.
Step 5: Wash the Rug
Apply the cleaning solution on the rug using a soft brush or sponge. Work the solution into the carpet to lather. Allow it to sit there for about five minutes before scrubbing gently, removing stains or soiling. Focus on high-traffic areas.
Step 6: Rinse the Rug
Rinse the soap off the rug using a bucket of clean water or splash water directly using the garden horse. Repeat this until all the cleaning detergent is completely removed and the runoff water is clear.
Step 7: Remove Any Excess Water
Rinse any excess water from the rug to facilitate a quicker drying. Run a squeegee toward the nap, or use a wet-dry vacuum or pat the carpet with clean towels to remove as much moisture from the rug as possible.
Step 8: Leave it to Dry
Spread the rug on a clean surface and leave it to dry. Flip the bottom side to dry once the top is completely dry. Consider using a fan to expedite the process, ensuring the rug is fully air-dried before storing it.
Step: 9 Vacuum the Rug
At this stage, threads and fibres are likely squished or compacted from the cleaning and drying. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove loose fibres or dirt on the rug’s surface.
Step 10: Groom the Rug
Complete the cleaning process with a gentle groom using a comb or a soft brush to restore the rug’s natural appearance.
How Often Should You Clean Your Rug?
The cleaning frequency of your rugs depends on their location within the room. For instance, rugs in high-traffic zones like entryways or living rooms may require regular vacuuming and cleaning a few times per year. This is also especially true if you have pets and rugs get stained often. However, for low-traffic areas, such as your bedroom rugs, you can vacuum twice weekly and clean deep clean once or twice yearly.
Final Thoughts
Rug cleaning is an art that requires prior planning. From careful dirt removal to proper drying and grooming, all these are essential steps in ensuring the longevity and beauty of your décor. Master the step and elevate the ambiance of your living space with well-cleaned rugs.