Area rugs lend your home beauty and character. They protect delicate flooring and serve as a practical alternative for homeowners who don’t want to worry about frequent carpet cleaning. But it’s just as important to schedule rug cleaning from time to time to protect its integrity and longevity. Here’s what you need to know to keep your area rug looking its best.

When to Clean Your Area Rugs

What Role Does Rug Location Play?

Where you place your area rug plays a significant role in determining just how often it will require cleaning. Your entry runner, for example, will require attention far more frequently than the area rug in your living room or guest bedroom in the basement. If used regularly, minuscule rug fibers hold on to dirt, soil, dust, debris, and common allergens that may impact your quality of life and the condition of the material. The less you use the rug, the less likely it is to have contaminants that contribute to indoor air pollution and long-term rug damage.

What Other Factors Require Rug Cleaning?

Your lifestyle affects the rug’s condition as well. You may require more frequent rug cleaning throughout the house if you’re a smoker, or if you have a pet, children or a large family. All of these factors increase the potential for stains and dirt. If any of these factors apply to you, schedule a professional cleaning at least once a year. If you live alone or don’t spend much time at home, however, then you may be able to get away with cleaning the rugs every couple of years.  

What Are the Different Cleaning Methods?

There are several ways to clean your area rugs. You should vacuum them at least once a week to eliminate loose debris and prevent dirt and dust from settling into the fabric. Another helpful maintenance tip is rug rotation. You should move the rug around at least once every six months — changing which side is exposed to more dirt or sun damage — to ensure even wear throughout its lifespan. They should also be professionally cleaned regularly to maintain their brightness and longevity.

If your area rugs seem like they could use a freshening up, trust the team at Lakes Area Professional Carpet Care to restore them to their original beauty. Proudly serving homeowners throughout Branson, Kimberling City, Ozark, Hollister, Forsyth, and Nixa, MO, these rug cleaning experts use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to ensure that your investment looks just as good as new. They can also assist with carpet cleaning, stain protection, and upholstery cleaning as needed to ensure that every area of your home looks its best. Visit them online for details, or call 417-334-6049 in Branson, 417-739-5537 in Kimberling, 417-485-5651 in Ozark.