Rugs and Carpet require special cleaning care.
Many people prefer carpet or area rugs in living rooms and children's playrooms, but carpeting is more of
a challenge to keep clean than other floor surfaces. Beyond vacuuming
regularly, you may also have some other carpet cleaning process. Cleaning of
rugs depend on the type and size of rugs and carpet. Following the instructions for carpet cleaning tips is a good way to
increase the lifespan of carpeting. Like anything else that is regularly
used in the home, some maintenance is required to help them look their best.
The most important thing you can do for larger
area rugs is to vacuum them regularly. This removes grit and grime that can
wear out your rug prematurely. Take care to not vacuum the fringe of rug. A vacuum will sometimes leave pet hair
behind. Use a stiff brush to remove the hair, brushing in the direction of the
nap of the rug. If the rug is small enough, you can take it outside and shake
it or beat it vigorously to remove dirt and grit.
Some tips for
taking care of specialty rugs:
§ Woven or braided
rugs: Small braided rugs Wash in cool
water on a gentle cycle, rinsing thoroughly. Tumble dry on a low setting. Place
large braided rugs on a vinyl or concrete floor or place an old blanket beneath
them. Sponge commercial carpet-cleaning foam over the surface and rub it in
according to the product directions. Finish by rinsing or vacuuming. Dry thoroughly
before replacing the rug on the floor.
§ Handmade,
hand-knotted, antique, and Oriental rugs: Vacuum
a new Oriental rug as you would carpet and wool area rugs. Use special care
with delicate vintage or antique rugs. Protect them from the vacuum by placing
a piece of nylon screen over the rug and weighting it down with books or
bricks. Vacuum over the screen. Or, tie a piece of nylon mesh over the vacuum
attachment and change the mesh frequently as dirt accumulates. Have these rugs
professionally cleaned once a year. Rotate rugs to ensure even wear; direct
exposure to sun will cause fading.
- Coir,
sisal, rush, and grass rugs: Rugs
made from these natural fibers feature an open weave that allows dirt to
sift through to the floor beneath. Vacuum frequently, removing the rug
occasionally to vacuum the floor, as well. Many of these rugs are
reversible; if so, flip every time you vacuum for even wear. To clean
stains or discolorations on a room-size natural-fiber rug, leave it in
place. Protect the floor beneath it with a plastic drop cloth and towel.
Scrub the stains with a soft brush dipped in soapy water. Rinse with clear
water. Place a towel over the wet area. Blot the cleaned spot as dry as
possible. Use a portable fan or hair dryer to speed drying. Move small
rugs to a protected table or counter to clean. Water weakens the fibers,
so work quickly and dries thoroughly to extend the life of these rugs.
- Fur,
sheepskin, and hair-on hides: Shake
unscented talcum powder on fur, sheepskin, and hair-on hide rugs and leave
for several hours. Brush the talcum powder through the hair, and then
shake it out. Repeat this process several times, depending on the length
of the fur.
To clean the back of such a rug, use a clean cotton cloth dipped in
lukewarm soapy water. Wipe off any dirt or spills. Rinse with a cloth
dipped in clean water and allow drying completely before putting back in
place.
Carpet cleaning, for beautification, and the removal of stains, dirt, grit, sand, and allergens can be achieved by several
methods, both traditional and modern. Clean carpets are more visually pleasing,
potentially longer-lasting, and probably healthier than poorly maintained
carpets.
