Eventually, vacuuming alone won't cut it for keeping your area rug clean. As stains accumulate as well as dirt and dust mites become deeply rooted into the carpet, you will need to deep clean your area rug to avoid permanent damage. Typically, this is best handled by a professional carpet cleaning company with the experience and equipment necessary to get the job done right. However, you can handle this on your own in some cases.
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From our team at Home Pride Cleaning & Restoration, here is what you need to do to clean an area rug.
Step 1: Vacuum Each Side Of The Rug
Start by thoroughly vacuuming both sides of the rug. Go over the rug several times and make sure that the vacuum is set to the proper height. This means that the vacuum is not so high that it cannot effectively pull the dirt out of the rug or so low that it can damage the rug fibers. Vacuuming will only get the surface-level dirt and grime out of the rug, but it is a good start.
Vacuuming Best Practices:
- Check vacuum height settings: Adjust based on rug pile depth
- Vacuum in multiple directions: Go against the grain, then with it
- Pay attention to edges: Use crevice tools for detailed cleaning
- Empty bag/canister: Ensure maximum suction power
- Clean both sides: Flip the rug and vacuum the back
Step 2: Apply Shampoo And Wash The Rug
Once the vacuuming is complete, the rug is ready to be washed and shampooed. This should proceed in two main steps:
Test the Shampoo First
First, you need to find a shampoo that works for your rug. You can do this by spot-testing different types of shampoos. You can do this by testing different shampoos on a small, innocuous corner of the rug. Then, check to see if the shampoo caused any discoloration or fiber damage before continuing. If not, then you are safe to go ahead with using that specific type of shampoo on your area rug.
Apply the Shampoo
Once you know the shampoo that you will use, start washing the rug by hosing it down (you can do this with a simple garden hose). Once the rug is fully soaked, add the shampoo. The next part is the most labor-intensive. You will need to scrub the shampoo deep into the carpet fibers using a sturdy brush with a strong handle.
Washing Guidelines:
- Work in sections: Clean manageable areas at a time
- Use proper dilution: Follow manufacturer's instructions
- Scrub gently but thoroughly: Work shampoo into fibers without damaging them
- Work in one direction: Maintain consistent brush strokes
- Allow dwell time: Let shampoo work as directed
Step 3: Rinse The Rug
Finally, leave the shampoo on the rug for as long as the instructions instruct. Then hose the rug down once again to get all the shampoo out.
Proper Rinsing Technique:
- Rinse thoroughly: Remove all soap residue to prevent dirt attraction
- Use clean water: Multiple rinses may be necessary
- Check for suds: Continue rinsing until water runs clear
- Squeeze out excess water: Remove as much water as possible
Step 4: Dry The Rug
Proper drying is crucial to prevent mold and mildew growth. Here's how to dry your rug effectively:
Drying Methods:
- Air drying: Hang on a clothesline or lay flat on
