Carpets and rugs are probably scattered all over your house, but you probably don’t give them a second thought, even during your regular household cleaning session. However, just like everything else in your home, it’s important that these items are cleaned regularly to ensure that your home remains clean, hygienic, and overall healthy for you and your loved ones. Here’s how you can clean your carpets at home!
How to Prepare Rugs for Cleaning
To prepare rugs for cleaning, start by removing all the items on top before using your vacuum cleaner to remove all surface dirt and debris. Alternatively, you can also use a soft brush. Then, make sure that you check the fabric care tag before proceeding as this will inform you of the manufacturer’s cleaning recommendations.
Finally, address any spots or stains with an enzymatic cleaner, making sure to follow the instructions printed at the back. Regardless of the cleaning method or the type of rug you’re cleaning, these are a few general steps that will help you prep your rug.
How to Clean Area Rugs Without Washing Machine
How to Clean Area Rug with a Hose
To clean your area rug with a hose, start by bringing your carpet outdoors and laying it down on a flat surface, preferably near a hose or water source. Then, choose a carpet shampoo and take the time to read the instructions.
Once that’s done, use either a garden hose or a bucket to rinse down the entire carpet before applying the carpet shampoo and working it in thoroughly with a brush. This is a great method for much larger carpets that may be difficult to clean indoors.
How to Clean Area Rug with White Vinegar and Dish Soap
To prepare your cleaning solution, combine a tablespoon of dish soap, a tablespoon of white vinegar, and two cups of water in a bowl or bucket. After mixing all of this together, dip a soft bristle brush or a sponge into the solution before working it into the carpet, making sure that your cleaning tool is only dampened and not soaking wet. It may help to divide your carpet up into a grid and work in small sections at a time.
How to Clean Area Rug with Carpet Shampoo or Mild Detergent
Choose a carpet shampoo or mild detergent that is specifically formulated for carpets and area rugs and take the time to read through the printed label at the back. Once that’s done, add the recommended amount to a bucket of warm water before using either a soft brush or a sponge to work this into your carpet.
How to Clean Stair Carpet By Hand
Choose a mild detergent or carpet shampoo and add the recommended amount to a bucket of water before applying it onto the carpet by dampening a soft brush or sponge. For stair carpets, it may help to work from the top to the bottom, as well as work in small sections to ensure that you haven’t forgotten any areas.
What to Do After Washing Carpets?
Once you’ve finished cleaning your carpet, remove any residue left behind by your cleaning solution by blotting over the carpet with a dampened cloth, making sure to regularly rinse and wring out your cloth if needed.
Then, leave your carpet to fully dry, preferably outdoors as the direct sunlight will not only speed up the drying process but also eliminate any lingering bacteria or odors. Another way to dry your carpet is by pointing an electric fan towards it or opening up a few windows or doors. This will ensure that there’s proper air circulation around your carpet. Regardless of which one you choose, it’s important to let your rug fully dry before resuming its use.
What’s the Best Way to Wash Washable Rugs?
The best way to wash washable rugs is with a washing machine as this will help you save both time and energy. Choose a gentle detergent specifically made for carpets and read the instructions. Then, put the washing machine in a gentle or delicate cycle, filling it with cold instead of hot water, before adding in the recommended amount of detergent. Then, set the machine on a wash and rinse cycle to finish.
When doing this, make sure that the carpet can move freely in the machine as this will ensure that your washing machine won’t become overloaded.
How Often Should You Wash an Area Rug?
As a general rule, you should wash and deep clean your area rug every 12 to 18 months. But there are other ways you can keep your carpet looking fresh and clean. Aside from regularly vacuuming it every week or so, immediately addressing any stains as they come, as well as rotating your carpet every now and then, will also help maintain the condition of your area rug.
However, if you’re too busy or tired to do this yourself, Luce can send over a professional rug cleaner to take care of your carpet. With years of training and experience, Luce’s highly skilled staff of cleaners will be able to accommodate any household cleaning need or concern you may have to help you achieve a clean living space effortlessly.
