Did you know there are a few simple steps you could take to extend the life of your beloved area rugs?

Here is a list of tips, which will help you to take care of your area rugs and to keep any handmade rug in tiptop condition:

Regular Vacuum the rug

Regular vacuuming will prevent dirt build up deep down the rug pile. Hand-knotted rugs are incredibly good at hiding dirt, but whenever you step on it these grit particles, they rub against the fibers, leading to early wear and tear. For the best results, use a standing vacuum cleaner with an attachment bar.

Rotate the rug regularly to ensure even wear

Stepping on the same place on a rug repeatedly will eventually lead to wear and tear in these places. Turn the rug occasionally to ensure the rug wears evenly.

Turn the rug face down and vacuum the back

In my opinion, this is the best rug care tip of them all.

Repeatedly vacuum the rug back by turning the rug face down on a hard floor, and using a standing vacuum with an attachment bar. Preferably, if your vacuum allows it, turn the suction off. Gently vibrate the rug back to remove any dirt from deep down the pile. The gravity will do the rest and you should see a lot of dust on the hard floor.

Until the rug is dust free, sweep the floor, vacuum the rug face and repeat.

Keep the rug away from excessive heat

Placing a nice rug in front of the fireplace might seem like a good idea, but the heat will dry the fiber’s natural oils. Therefor keep the rugs away from excessive heat area.

Shake the rug outside

I do not recommend beating a delicate antique rug, but a good shake will get rid of any dust the vacuum cleaner did not pick up.

Keep the rug away from damp

Oriental rugs are made of natural fibers like wool, cotton, silk and often a combination of them. All natural fibers are disposed to rotting in damp or wet conditions.

Protect your rug from moths

Here are a few simple steps you could take to prevent a moth infestation.

Moths prefer dark, undisturbed places. Having your rug in the center of a well-lit room and avoiding placing large furniture on it might help prevent moths from damaging your rug.

Things to look for:

– Adult moths

– Pile loss

– Moth larvae – they look like tiny worms

– Moth eggs – lots of tiny ivory dots the size of a pin-head deep down the rug pile or on the rug back

Keep the rug away from direct sunlight

Placing the rug in direct sunlight will slowly cause color fading. The color of your rug will fade with time.

Have the rug professionally cleaned

The best thing you can do for your area rug is to have it professionally cleaned. Regular “Professional Cleanings” will prolong the life, beauty and investment of your area rugs. My Cleaner proudly provide Area Rug Cleaning for business owners and residents of Cape Coral and Ft. Myers, FL.

For any rug cleaning enquiries contact us now!