Rugs are a wonderful addition to any home. The right rug can complete a room and add that extra comfort level you might be looking for. They’re soft on your feet and come in many great designs. 

However, it’s important to keep up with proper rug maintenance/cleaning if you want your rug to remain beautiful for many years to come. If you don’t keep up with rug care, then dirt, dust, and other grime can build on the carpet and absorb into the fibers. With all the right rug cleaning tips and tricks, your rug will stay clean each and every day! 

Not sure where to begin? Continue reading below! Here’s everything you need to know about caring for your rug on a regular basis. 

1. Place All Cleaning Supplies in a Bucket

Before you start cleaning your rug, it’s beneficial to gather all of your supplies. Grab everything you need and place those items in a bucket. There are several different rug cleaning supplies to make sure you have. 

For starters, you’ll want a rug cleaner or mild dish soap. Then, you’ll want a sponge or soft-bristled brush to scrub with. You’ll also need a wet/dry vacuum, rubber gloves, and water. 

Anything else you believe you might need to clean your rug, grab it and place it in your bucket. Having everything you need in one place by your side is the best way to conduct a quick and simple rug cleaning. 

2. Start by Removing Dirt and Other Debris

The next step is to remove dirt and other debris from your rug. The best way to do this is by vacuuming both sides of the rug. If you want, then you can start by shaking or beating the rug outside. 

You may be able to get a good amount of dust and dirt off of the rug this way. Otherwise, simply vacuum the rug on both sides. You don’t want to begin cleaning the rug until you’re sure that all of the dirt and dust is off of it. 

If you have pets in your home, then don’t forget to use the brush attachment to help remove any pet hairs. 

3. Always Start With a Color Test

After removing dirt and dust from the rug, you can begin the cleaning phase. Now is the time to mix your rug cleaning solution. Make sure to follow the directions on the rug shampoo to be sure you mix it correctly. 

You can also use your mild dish soap mixed with warm water to create your own solution. You’ll want to avoid using hot water, though, because the hot water can cause the rug to shrink or lose its color. However, before you start to clean the rug, you do need to conduct a color test on the rug. 

You want to ensure the cleaning solution doesn’t cause the colors on the rug to run. You can test the solution on the rug by placing a small amount on one corner of the rug. As long as the color doesn’t bleed, you can then feel confident in using it on the rest of the rug. 

4. Wash Then Rinse the Rug

Now it’s time to take your soft-bristled brush or sponge and begin working the cleaning solution into the work by creating a lather. Allow the rug cleaner to sit on the rug for several minutes. Then, you can begin to rinse the rug clean. 

Be sure to give it at least five minutes before you begin rinsing to ensure an optimal clean. You can use a bucket of clean water to rinse the rug with. If you’re cleaning the rug outside, then you can even rinse it out using your garden hose. 

You need to make sure all of the cleaning solution is rinsed off of the rug, as leaving it can cause a residue to build on the fibers that attracts dirt. 

5. Make Sure All Excess Water Is Removed

You also need to be sure that all excess water is removed from the rug. The less water held in the rug, the quicker it’ll dry. You can remove the excess water by using a squeegee in the direction of the nap. 

Another option is to take your wet/dry vacuum and remove the water that way. 

6. Allow the Rug to Dry Before Vacuuming

To dry the rug, lay the rug on a flat surface. Leave it like this until the top of the rug has completely dried. You’ll then want to flip the rug over and allow the bottom of the rug to dry completely as well. 

If you want to speed up the process, then consider plugging fans in and directing them at the rug. You don’t want to give the rug its final brush out or vacuum until it’s completely dry. 

7. Contact Professional Carpet Cleaners

The last rug-cleaning suggestion we have is to contact professional carpet cleaners. Your rug is a beautiful statement piece and should be handled with great care. One of the best ways to ensure your rug is cleaned correctly without causing it damage is to have professional carpet cleaners clean it for you. 

Professional carpet cleaners, like those at www.cleanvillecarpetcare.com, know how to properly clean a rug without damaging it or altering its beauty/design. Take your time to find a reputable rug cleaning service near you.

This Is Rug Cleaning Made Easy 

If you own a rug that’s in need of a good cleaning, then be sure to follow all of the tips and tricks listed here in this guide. Remember that many rugs are delicate and require great care and attention to detail. If you feel as though you may be in need of some extra help, then don’t hesitate to contact a professional rug cleaning service. 

For more home improvement topics, continue to check back here on a regular basis.