Whether you have carpet or wood flooring, putting down an area rug might be just what a room needs to feel complete. They can add a lot of color and character to a space or simply provide cushy flooring for tired feet. However, if you want your rugs to stay as plush and clean as the day you bought them, you’ll need to take care of them. Pay attention to these area rug cleaning and care tips for proper maintenance.

How to Make Area Rugs Last

1. Get a Rug Pad

Rug pads are much more useful than you might believe. Not only will they prevent slipping, but they also reduce shedding and wear by providing a cushion between the floor and your rug. While constant sliding can pull rug fibers apart over time, a pad will keep them together. They’re helpful tools for lengthening the lifespan of your rugs.

2. Clean Properly

You might not enjoy housework, but regular area rug cleaning is critical to long-lasting rugs. Improper techniques can damage rugs, so be sure to figure out what type of material your rug is made from. For instance, synthetic rugs can sometimes be machine-washed, but silk rugs are delicate and need professional cleaning. Be sure to vacuum once a week.

3. Blot Spills Quickly

Splatters and spills can cause irreversible damage to area rugs if not treated immediately. Quickly blot the area with a clean cloth to prevent it from spreading, then use the appropriate area rug cleaning solution to gently blot it out. Different stains will require varied cleaning agents, so read the labels of commercial products, or research homemade solutions to find the right fix.

4. Rotate Regularly

High traffic, sunlight, and furniture can fade and flatten certain sections of the rug, causing uneven surface wear. To promote uniform wear and give well-used areas a rest, rotate rugs once or twice a year. If your rug is reversible, flip it over at the same rate.

5. Have It Cleaned By an Expert

The best way to ensure that your area rugs will last is to have them cleaned off-site by a professional. Area rug cleaning should never be done in the home, as it requires a thorough process to completely lift the dirt trapped within. When area rugs are cleaned like carpets, moisture mixes with that grime and hardens, resulting in brittle and damaged rugs.

With cutting-edge technology, advanced techniques, and years of experience, The Rug Beater Cleaning Enterprises is the top carpet cleaning service of Lancaster County, PA. These experts have all of your floor cleaning and maintenance solutions, from hardwood restoration to upholstery cleaning. As a family-owned and -operated business, they’re committed to keeping customers knowledgeable about proper floor care. Call (717) 656-9826 to speak with a member of the team. Visit their website to learn more about area rug cleaning.