How to Clean Rugs the Right Way?

How to Clean Rugs the Right Way? Rugs enhance your living space and make it feel good whenever you step on it. Over time rugs can collect grime and dirt because of everyday foot traffic. Therefore, to extend its life, you should keep it clean.

And, knowing how to clean them in the right way makes it look nicer.

Also, it provides warmth under your feet. So, if your rugs come with a set of cleaning instructions, it is wise to follow them. Or else, continue reading the post – “How to Clean Rugs the Right Way?” to learn how to make your rugs clean.

How to know whether your rugs are dirty or not:

Rugs need a deep cleaning once a year. Here are some ways to find out if it is the right time for cleaning rugs.

• Lift a small portion of the rug and punch its back with your hand. If you notice clouds of dust coming out, it indicates that the rug is dirty

• Rub your palm on the opposite side of the rug in circular motions for about a few seconds. If you find your palm dirty, it means the rug is dirty too

• Look out for any signs of dirt deeply embedded in your rugs. Take a thorough look at the backside. Deep dirt always settle along the weft and warp of the rugs

All these things confirm that the rugs are dirty and need cleaning.

Tools needed to clean the rugs:

You need some basic tools when it is about cleaning rugs in the right way. You need:

• A broom or rug beater
• A good cleaning solution or rug shampoo
• Two buckets that can hold 5 gallons of water each
• Large sponges
• A big tarp
• Towels

Things to consider before cleaning the rugs:

Before starting with the process of cleaning the rugs, carefully read the instructions on its label. The best time to clean the rugs is a bright sunny day. So, proceed with the cleaning work when you are sure that there will be a few hot days together.

It would be easy to clean the rugs outdoors with bright sunlight and warm air. The rugs dry thoroughly and quickly. Moreover, the sun is an effective and natural deodorizer. It keeps most of the dirt and dust from the rugs outside the house.

If you don’t have an outside area, use the floor area where moisture won’t damage. This includes concrete or vinyl floor.

Cleaning the rug:

Follow these simple steps to clean your rug.

• Beat or shake – Take the rug outside and shake them hard to release the loose dust and dirt. If the rug is a large one, ask someone to help you hang over a railing or some solid chairs. Use the rug beater or broom to loosen the dirt.

• Get the cleaner ready – Mix 2 to 3 teaspoons of dish soap with warm water into one of the buckets. And, fill the other one with clean water. Also, you can use the rug solution and make a proper solution as instructed.

• Colorfast testing – Before cleaning the rug with any kind of solution, you have to test it for colorfastness. That way, it prevents damage to the rug. Apply the cleaning solution on a small portion of the rug using a towel. Lookout if the color shifts to the towel.
  
  Wait for some time and let it dry. Make sure that the colors haven’t faded.

• Scrubbing – When you are sure that the rug is colorfast, take the sponge and apply the cleaning solution over the rug. Begin from one end of the rug. Use the cleaning solution as much as you need. Moreover, don’t over-wet them.
  
  Apply gentle pressure on the rug and scrub it with the sponge. Rinse the sponge after every use so that the dirt doesn’t get transferred again.

• Rinse thoroughly – You mustn’t leave any cleaning solution on the rug. Dip the sponge in the clean water and remove excess soap.

• Blot – Use the towels to absorb excess water from the rug.

• Drying – Lay the rug on the tarp or hang it on the railing. When it is completely dry, bring it back inside your house.

How to Clean Rugs the Right Way? – Conclusion

So, keep your rugs spotless and bright with these tips. Rugs add a character and provide warmth to your house. Moreover, regular cleaning of rugs makes it look new and prolongs its life.