Rugs bring warmth, style, and comfort to your home but also endure heavy use. Between tracking in dirt, food spills, and your pet’s favorite lounging spots, rugs experience a lot of wear and tear. Knowing how to clean rugs properly is essential for keeping them looking and smelling fresh. However, common cleaning mistakes can often do more harm than good.
Whether you’re a homeowner looking to maintain your space or a pet owner managing everyday messes, we’ll guide you through the essential dos and don’ts of rug cleaning.
The Don’ts of Rug Cleaning You Should Avoid
Rugs are delicate and require careful cleaning to avoid discoloration, distortion, or irreparable damage.
Don’t Toss Your Rug in the Washing Machine
While treating your rug like your favorite sweater and tossing it into the washing machine may be tempting, it can lead to disastrous results.
Here’s why you should avoid this mistake:
Deformation and Shrinkage
Most rugs—primarily synthetic or wool options—aren’t designed to withstand a washing cycle’s intense turbulence and water saturation. At best, you may end up with a warped rug; at worst, it could shrink several sizes.
Fiber Damage
Machine washing can damage your rug’s delicate fibers, making it susceptible to shedding or tears. The agitation is often too harsh for most rug materials.
Color Bleeding and Fading
The dyes in your rug may not be colorfast, and putting them in a washing machine can cause unsightly bleeding or fading. Your once-vibrant rug could come out looking dull or blotchy.
Don’t Wash Rugs in the Driveway
Cleaning rugs in the driveway may seem like a quick solution, but this method has many drawbacks.
Here’s why you should avoid this mistake:
Drying Challenges
Washing rugs in the driveway, particularly thicker ones, take a long time to dry. If you try to air dry them without professional tools such as squeegees or industrial-grade fans, the rugs may become soggy and retain moisture.
Mold and Odor Concerns
Excess moisture promotes mildew and mold growth, leading to a musty odor.
Distortion
Improper drying methods, such as hanging rugs over railings or cars, can cause deformation, uneven surfaces, or shrinkage. When brought back into the house, a warped rug looks unattractive and can create safety hazards.
The Essential Do’s for Rug Cleaning That Will Save You Time and Trouble
Efficient ways to manage your rug-cleaning routine. These tips will lower stress and help maintain your rugs in excellent condition for years.
Do Invest in Professional Cleaning
There’s no substitute for professional rug cleaning. A specialist will have the tools, knowledge, and expertise to clean your rug thoroughly without risking damage.
Here’s why:
Preserves the Rug’s Quality
Professionals know how to handle different rugs, from wool and silk to synthetic and handwoven varieties. With expertise in fiber care, they’ll ensure your rug retains its softness and vibrancy.
Powerful Equipment and Products
Industry-grade cleaning tools and solutions go beyond surface cleaning, extracting dirt and allergens hidden deep within the fibers. This is especially valuable if your pets shed or track in dirt. Learn more about our 7-step rug cleaning process!
Time-Saving and Hassle-Free
Professional cleaning takes the load off your plate and eliminates the guesswork. It’s an especially appealing option for large-area rugs that are too heavy to move or clean alone.
Do Rotate Rugs Seasonally, but Start Fresh
Just as you change your wardrobe with the seasons, it’s a good practice to rotate your rugs. This will prolong their life by evenly distributing wear and tear.
Before storing a rug or using one, ensure that it is clean. Dust, dirt, and lingering stains can attract moths and cause odors over time.
Love Your Rugs, Love Your Home
Your rugs are more than just functional accessories—they’re art pieces, foot comforters, and even conversation starters for your home. Keeping them looking their best doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require care and attention to avoid costly mistakes.
When in doubt, professional rug cleaning is worth every penny if it saves you from replacing a damaged or discolored rug. Likewise, maintaining a seasonal cleaning and rotation schedule can preserve their beauty.
Contact our team of trusted professionals if you need expert rug care or assistance with stubborn stains. We offer various services, from rug cleaning to rug restoration, ensuring your rugs stay stunning and fresh for years. For added ease, take advantage of our convenient pickup and delivery services.