From noise reduction to creating a cozy space to helping ease allergies and more area rugs have many benefits to offer.

If you want them to last long, though, you need to know how to keep them clean. Depending on footfall traffic, you’ll want to vacuum your area rugs once or twice a week.

You should also take care to clean spills right away. Now, if after vacuuming, your rugs still look dirty, or there’s an odor you can’t get rid of, it’s time for a more thorough cleaning.

Read on for steps on how to clean a rug, plus when to consider professional cleaning services.

1. Gather Your Supplies

You don’t need expensive supplies like special powders or tools to clean your rugs. If you don’t have rug shampoo, mild liquid soap will do.

Other things you need to prepare are a bucket, scrub brush or sponge, and a vacuum.

2. Vacuum Both Sides of Your Rugs

Before you mix your cleaner, both sides of your rugs should be free of debris. If you own pets, it’s worth investing in a vacuum with a high-efficiency particulate arresting (HEPA) filter.

Be sure to vacuum both sides of your rugs even if they’re not reversible. Any leftover grime will cause the fabric to wear out sooner.

3. Prepare Your Rug Cleaning Solution

Check your rug shampoo’s directions for mixing. If you’re using mild liquid soap, dilute it in warm, not boiling water to prevent the fibers from shrinking.

Next, do a color test. You should only start washing if the colors don’t run or bleed.

4. Wash and Rinse

Apply the cleaning solution with your sponge or brush. You’ll want to be gentle when scrubbing. Try to let the solution soak into your rugs before rinsing them.

When the runoff water’s clear, you can use a wet-dry vacuum to remove the excess water.

5. Make Sure Your Rugs Are Fully Dry

You’ve done a superb job, and now you’re excited to use your clean rugs again. But are you certain they’re completely dry?

Damp rugs will attract dirt and can be a breeding ground for germs, just like dirty kitchen sponges and rags. Use fans if you can’t wait for your rugs to air dry.

When to Clean a Rug with a Professional’s Help

For antique rugs, it’s better to hire professional cleaners. You don’t want to damage the delicate fibers.

Other than having them professionally cleaned once a year, rotate them every six months for even wear. Also, consider not using them in rooms where they’ll be exposed to direct sunlight to prevent fading.

For hard to remove stains, calling in cleaning experts is a good idea. Don’t wait until the stains have settled deep into the rugs. Get them cleaned, ASAP.

Keep Your Rugs Looking Good as New

Deep cleaning your rugs from time to time will ensure you can use them for a long time. It’s also worth hiring a reliable cleaning company if you don’t know how to clean a rug you’ve splurged on or if you have a stained rug that seems impossible to restore to its previously pristine condition.

For more information about our cleaning services, call us at (469) 617-7676.