Although rugs can bring a space together, they also get beaten up by pets and foot traffic. It’s not enough to vacuum the every once in a while. That’s why a deep clean is necessary.
At Cleaner Carpets Ashford we love to get your favourite floorpiece as fresh and clean as possible, whether it’s a normal polyester rug, or a specialist weave. Our standard rug cleaning process is similar to carpet cleaning, with modifications for different types of rugs. the normal procedure is as follows.
Our rug deep cleaning process
First we refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning the rug. These are normally located on a label underneath the rug. The process is very similar to carpet cleaning.
Remove furniture and other objects from the rug, taking it outside if possible
For proper cleaning, it helps if the rug can be removed from the home. Rug cleaning uses a lot of water. This ensures proper soil removal. They must also be dried properly and quickly to ensure that colours don’t fade or run. Cleaning is best done on a sunny day to avoid rain. Instead of putting your rug directly on the ground, we’ll lay a dust sheet or tarp first.
Clean up dirt and other debris
If possible, use a vacuum that only uses suction and not a rotating brush. This type of vacuum is very effective in removing dirt particles before they sink into the rug. It also makes it gentle on the rug’s fibres. Vacuum the rug from both ends, making make sure to pick up all debris. A brush attachment. is fine to remove any stray hairs left behind by pets.
Mix the cleaner
Carpet shampoo or carpet cleaner aren’t always best used on rugs. These chemicals can damage the fibres and cause irreversible damage. Use a specific rug cleaner instead. Mix the solution with water according to the instructions.
Alternately, you can use mild dish detergent in a bucket with warm or cold water for synthetic fibres. Hot water can cause rug shrinkage or fading.
Perform a colour test
Before scrubbing begins, ensure that the cleaner does not cause dyes or other colours to run. To make sure the product is safe for the rug, we test it on a corner or other small area. It’s safe for you to carry on cleaning if the colour doesn’t bleed.
Clean the rug
Apply the cleaning solution to the rug with a sponge or soft bristle brush . Allow the cleaner to sit on the rug for five minutes before rinsing. You’ll speed up the cleaning process if you allow it to sit for at least five minutes.
Rinse the rug
A garden hose can be a convenient way to rinse the soap off the rug. You must ensure that all cleaning solutions have been removed from the rug. Also, make sure the water runoff is clear.
Get rid of excess water
To speed up the drying process, remove as much water as possible from the rug. If you have one, you can either use a dry-dry vacuum or a squeegee to move the nap.
Let the rug air dry
Place the rug flat on a flat surface and let it air dry completely. Flip it over and let the bottom dry. If indoors, the drying process can be speeded up by using fans or a dehumidifier. Before returning the rug to its room, make sure it is completely dry.
Vacuum or brush the rug
The cleaning process can cause fibres and threads to become compressed and squished. You can revive them by vacuuming the rug after it is dry, or using a soft-bristled brush.
Removing stains from rugs
Rugs don’t always need a full clean – sometimes there will just be a stain that needs removing. It’s important to quickly deal with any liquid, red wine and coffee included, on carpets or other surfaces. Use a clean, white cloth to immediately blot up the solution. Mix 3 parts baking soda and 1 part water and apply it to the stain. Dab, don’t rub the solution on the rug. Vacuum it after it is dry. Alternatively, mix equal parts of white vinegar, washing-up liquid, and warm water to use to remove the stain.
How we clean different types of rugs
Not all rug materials are created equal. Some are more sensitive than others, or respond differently to various cleaning methods. Here’s what we bear in mind when deciding what technique to use
Wool rugs
Only clean wool rugs with cold water. This will protect the fibres from damage and distortion. Synthetic rugs are more resilient than wool rugs and can be cleaned with hot water or stronger cleaning solutions.
Although the process of cleaning a shaggy carpet is similar to that of wool, you can choose to use a dry shampoo rather than cold water and detergent.
Sisal, coir, and jute rugs
These rugs should not be got wet, as they will start to turn brown. Instead, vacuum the rug regularly and then gently dust it.
For a more thorough clean, place the rug outside, shake it and use a rug beater. These rugs have an exposed weave. Dust and dirt should be completely removed.
Don’t use dish-soap on jute or sisal rugs with stains. Instead, place the rug flat on a flat surface, and then apply dry shampoo, Arm & Hammer Carpet Powder Cleaner, or plain baking soda, and let it absorb for a few more hours. It can then be vacuumed.
To let the rug air out, hang it up. If outdoors, it’s best to bring it outdoors on a sunny, warm day. UV rays serve as natural disinfectant and deodorizer. Return it to indoors and vacuum. Vacuuming in the direction the rug fibres face will restore it and keep its appearance like new.
Sheepskin rugs
A cowhide or sheepskin rug requires special cleaning methods in order to prevent shrinkage and maintain its fibres. They should be dry cleaned by a professional.
Viscose rugs
Rugs made from silk, viscose or other materials should only be cleaned professionally.
Viscose is becoming more and more popular. The rug is not meant to be wet and could become discoloured. Instead, be gentle and use a soft bristled brush. Blot any spillages using a white towel to minimize the staining
Nylon rugs
Nylon rugs are best steam-cleaned, or you can use water and a light detergent to clean by hand. Don’t let the rug get too wet. Blot gently to remove excess moisture.
Polyester rugs
Polyester rugs are usually machine washable. Rugs labelled as washable can be placed in a washing machine at 100oF/40oC. If the rug is not washable, use non-bio washing detergent with water. Then follow the same steps you would for a wool rug.
Maintaining a clean rug
Rugs can be kept looking good for years by regular vacuuming and prompt spot-cleaning. But every rug deserves a bit more attention now and then
FAQ
How often do I need to deep clean rugs?
Although you need to vacuum carpet once a week, it is not necessary to do a deep clean on an area rug that’s already dirty. If the rug doesn’t seem to be visibly dirty (or smells bad), you can do this test: Pick up a corner and lay it down on the floor. If dust is visible, cleaning is necessary.
Why would you clean a rug when it looks so clean?
Even if you think your rug is clean, there are bacteria and bugs hiding under it. So it is vital to regularly clean it. The Rug Seller’s Daniel Prendergast says that it is important to clean all types and styles of rug regularly to keep them fresh and free from dust. You can be sure that there are more than just bugs in your rug if it isn’t cleaned regularly. Carpet dust mites can trigger allergic reactions, such as asthma and eczema.