Area rugs are a excellent way to add warmth and character to your decoration, but after prolonged use, they will require a good cleaning to look like new. For many modern rugs, cleaning can be a once-a-year DIY project that saves you the expense of professional cleaning. If your rug is tagged with specific cleaning instructions, follow these.
In general, area rugs only have to be deep cleaned yearly. Here are a few ways to Find out If It’s time for Rug Cleaning in Walnut Creek:
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 few basic tools. You will 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 glowing, hot days together. It may be easier to clean your rugs outside, and sun and warm air will help them dry faster and thoroughly. Plus, the sun is a natural and effective deodorizer, which will keep most of the dust and dirt out of the home. Whether an outside area is not accessible, use any floor area which moisture will not damage (like concrete or vinyl flooring in the kitchen or garage.)
Shake or beat: Require smaller rugs and medium-sized rugs outdoors and provide them a good shake to release loose dust and dirt. If the rug is large, request a partner for help to hang the rug over a porch rail or over a couple of solid chairs. Don’t forget to shake out the rug pad too.
Examine the rug for colorfastness: Before cleaning a rug with any type of solution, it should be tested for colorfastness to prevent harm. Dab the cleaning solution on a small corner of the rug with a white towel. Check to see if any color transfers to the towel. Let the test place dry completely, then check again to make certain colours haven’t bled or faded.
Dip the sponge/brush into the cleaning solution. Do not over-wet the fibers–just use as much as required. Function in a 3- from 3-foot area. Rinse the sponge/brush regularly so the dirt won’t be transferred.
Rinse the rug thoroughly: It’s important not to leave any soap substance on the rug. Soap will attract more dirt. Dip a clean sponge in the rinse water and then remove any soap from the area just cleaned.
Blot: Drive as much excess water as possible with a squeegee and moving in the path of the rug nap. Scrub, rinse and blot an area before moving into the next.
Allow the rug dry thoroughly 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 completely.
Adjust rug fibers: When the rug has dried completely, lightly examine 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 worth it to rent a commercial steam cleaner. Vacuum the rug first, then follow the company’s instructions about how to operate the machine.
Check related blogs about Rug Cleaning:
Should I Take My Rug To My Dry Cleaner in Walnut Creek
What On Earth Are Area Rugs Anyway in Walnut Creek
