How to Keep Your Area Rug Looking Great
A great area rug can complete the look of your room. It can pull everything together and give it that finished, polished look. Whether you put money into an investment rug, or you went a more affordable route, you chose your rug for a reason and you want it to stay looking great. Here are 10 tips for keeping your area rug looking great:
1. Check the Label
Look for a label on the bottom of your rug. This label should have the material that the rug is made of, as well as care instructions for your rug from the manufacturer. If there is no label, check with the place that you bought your rug for information on the material and care of your rug.
2. Vacuum Regularly
Make sure you are vacuuming your rugs on a regular basis to keep them looking their best. Dirt in the rug can actually wear down on your carpet fibers and give it a worn look if not taken care of. This will help your rug keep its original look and help reduce allergens in your home.
3. Rotate Your Rug
It’s important to rotate your rugs on a regular basis. Rotating your rugs every 6-12 months can reduce wear in high traffic areas by evenly distributing that wear throughout the rug. Rotating your rug will also help to even out any fading that could occur from sunlight.
4. Dry Spills Quickly
Accidents and spills are inevitable, but quick action can prevent stains. Blot spills immediately with a clean, dry cloth. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain or push it deeper into the rug. Use mild detergent or carpet cleaner for tougher stains, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Use Rug Pads
Rug pads not only prevent slipping but also provide an extra layer of cushioning, reducing wear and tear. They also allow for easier vacuuming, as they prevent the rug from bunching or moving.
6. Avoid Direct Sunlight
Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause the colors in your rug to fade over time. If possible, place your rug in a location where it won’t be exposed to continuous sunlight, or use blinds and curtains to minimize sun exposure during peak hours.
7. Give Immediate Attention to Snags
If you notice a snag or loose thread in your rug, avoid pulling it. Instead, carefully trim the snag with scissors to prevent further unraveling or damage to the rug’s structure.
8. Control Foot Traffic and Shoes
High foot traffic, especially with shoes on, can accelerate the wear and tear of your rug. Encourage household members and guests to remove shoes when walking on the rug, or designate certain high-quality rugs for low-traffic areas to preserve their condition.
9. Be Mindful of Furniture Placement
Be cautious about where and how you place furniture on your area rug. Heavy furniture can compress the fibers of your rug, leading to indentations and uneven wear. Consider using furniture coasters to distribute the weight more evenly. Additionally, rearranging your furniture periodically can help prevent continuous pressure on the same areas of the rug, promoting more uniform wear over time.
10. Professional Cleaning
Having your rugs cleaned professionally can help prolong the life of your rug. The professionals have the expertise to know what to do with your particular type and material of rug. Professional cleaning will also be able to clean deeper and more thoroughly than vacuuming or cleaning at home would.
Call us today at (616) 530-9129 to ask about our drop-off rug cleaning service, and let us help you keep your rugs looking great for years to come.
Learn more about our rug and carpet cleaning services:
For insights into rug maintenance, explore Top Care Cleaning’s guidance on cleaning different types of area rugs. For a comprehensive view of their cleaning services, including upholstery and window cleaning, visit their services overview. Additionally, delve into their advanced carpet cleaning techniques, which emphasize steam extraction and pre-treatment. These resources are valuable for keeping your home clean and well-maintained.
