Area rugs are a beautiful addition to any home, but they can quickly collect dirt, dust and debris if not vacuumed properly. Regular vacuuming helps remove allergens and keeps your rugs looking fresh for many years to come. However, it's important to vacuum area rugs correctly to avoid damaging the fibres or missing embedded dirt and grime.
To ensure your rugs stay clean and fresh, follow these steps and tips on vacuuming an area rug properly.
1. Choose the Right Vacuum
The first step in adequately vacuuming an area rug is selecting the right vacuum cleaner. A vacuum with adjustable height settings and a beater bar or rotating brush is ideal for most rugs, as it can remove dirt deep within the fibres. However, it’s best to use a vacuum without a beater bar for delicate or high-pile rugs to prevent damage to the fibres. A handheld vacuum or an attachment designed for delicate surfaces can be used for fringes or edges.
2. Prepare the Rug
Before vacuuming, take a few moments to prepare your rug. If possible, shake the rug outdoors to remove loose dirt and dust. For more oversized rugs, lift the corners and give them a gentle shake. This step helps reduce the dirt your vacuum has to pick up and makes the vacuuming process more efficient.
3. Check for Loose Threads or Damage
Inspect your rug for any loose threads, tears, or damage. Vacuuming over these areas can cause further damage or unravelling. If you notice any issues, avoid vacuuming those areas or use a vacuum without a beater bar. Consider professional rug cleaning services to repair and clean your rug for significant damage.
4. Vacuum Both Sides
To thoroughly clean an area rug, it’s essential to vacuum both sides. Start by vacuuming the top side slowly to ensure you pick up as much dirt and debris as possible. Use slow, overlapping strokes and adjust the vacuum’s height setting as needed. After vacuuming the top, flip the rug over and vacuum the underside. This step helps to remove dirt that may have settled through the fibres and prevents it from accumulating.
5. Pay Attention to High-Traffic Areas
High-traffic areas on your rug tend to accumulate more dirt and wear more quickly. Focus extra attention on these areas, vacuuming them thoroughly. You may need to go over these spots multiple times or use a vacuum with a higher suction setting. Be gentle with the vacuum to avoid damaging the fibres, especially if your rug is delicate.
6. Don’t Forget the Fringes
Fringes can be tricky to clean and are often overlooked. Avoid vacuuming fringes directly, as the beater bar can damage them or cause them to get caught in the vacuum. Instead, use a handheld vacuum or vacuum attachment without a rotating brush. Gently run the attachment over the fringes, or use a vacuum hose with a nozzle attachment to clean them.
7. Schedule Professional Cleaning
While regular vacuuming is essential for maintaining your rug, professional cleaning is also recommended every 12 to 18 months, depending on the rug’s use and location. Professional carpet cleaning services can remove deep-seated dirt, stains, and allergens that regular vacuuming may not address. They also have the expertise to handle delicate or valuable rugs, ensuring they are cleaned safely and effectively.
Refresh Your Rugs with Life Maid Easy!
Keep your area rugs looking their best with carpet cleaning services in Vancouver and Toronto from Life Maid Easy. Our expert team ensures deep cleaning and care for all types of rugs. Say goodbye to dirt and allergens, and hello to fresh, vibrant rugs! Contact us today to schedule your appointment and experience the best rug cleaning.