Proper Rug Care
Area rugs may bring a room together, but they also take a beating from foot traffic, pets and spills. A simple cleaning can bring your rug back to life!
Rule of Thumb… BLOT IT
If you don’t know what your rug is made of, blot the stain with a clean, absorbent cloth, and then see a professional cleaner. The longer a stain sits, the harder it will be to remove.
WOOL
The beauty of wool is that it’s durable, resistant to stains, and a natural insulator. Blot stains right away. To clean, use a mild soap mixed with equal parts white vinegar and water. Periodic professional cleaning is recommended. Remember – new wool rugs (especially hand-tufted) will shed at first, but vacuuming (sans beater bar) will help diminish this.
BLENDS
Think mixed fibers – wool, viscose, and silk blends. General guideline is to blot stains, vacuum regularly (sans beater bar), and have them professionally cleaned periodically.
VISCOSE
Rugs with a high viscose content require extra care – but worth it for that lustrous sheen! Avoid moisture, heavy furniture on top of delicate fibers, and place in low-traffic areas (like bedrooms).
SARI SILK, SILK, & TENCEL
These fibers are delicate and should not be placed in areas of high traffic or moisture. Blot stains right away and vacuum (sans beater bar). Professional cleaning is recommended for stain removal or periodic cleaning.
SHAGS
For smaller sizes, shake the rug to loosen dirt and dust that can build up within higher pile rugs. Use a hand-held or upholstery attachment to vacuum.
COTTON
Blot stains right away. Check labels for small rugs to see if they can be machine washed in cold water on a gentle cycle. For larger rugs, use a dry-cleaning powder to spot clean. Vacuum on a regular basis (sans beater bar).
NATURAL
These are key to layered interiors and great for texture – think jute and sisal. Avoid moisture and be sure your rug is completely dry before replacing it after a spot cleaning. If loop or tuft “sprout” appear, simply trim with scissors. Blot stains right away. To clean, use mild, soapy water and blot dry. Use a fan or dryer to speed up the drying process. Vacuum on a regular basis (sans beater bar) and occasionally vacuum underneath the rug, as dirt and dust can sift through the weave and onto the floor.
POWER LOOMED – ACRYLIC / POLYESTER
Blot stains right away. To clean, use a mild soap mixed with equal parts white vinegar and water. Vacuum on a regular basis (sans beater bar). Periodic professional cleaning is recommended.
INDOOR OUTDOOR – POLYESTER / POLYPROPYLENE
These can be placed inside or out and the beauty is these can be cleaned using soap or detergent, and then rinsed with clean water or hosed off outside and hung to dry. Ensure it’s completely dry before placing back in its proper place.
