How to Clean Rugs and Carpets
PHOTO: Yueke
Did you know a square foot of carpet can hold up to a pound of dirt before looking dirty? Even regular vacuuming misses a lot. Here’s how to keep your rugs and carpets clean and long-lasting.
How Often to Clean Rugs and Carpets
- High-Traffic Areas: Vacuum daily.
- Low-Traffic Areas: Vacuum twice a week.
- Deep Cleaning: Clean most carpets once a year; high-traffic areas and homes with pets may need it more frequently. - Stains: Clean immediately to prevent setting.
Before You Start
- Spot Cleaning: Act fast on stains like red wine or pet accidents.
- Dust Removal: Shake or beat out the rug to remove loose dirt.
What You Need
- Small Rugs: Mild detergent, vinegar-water solution, seltzer, soft brushes, sponges, thick towels, washing machine (optional).
- Wall-to-Wall Carpeting: Steam cleaner, carpet cleaning solution, white cloth.
PHOTO: Yueke
1. Detergent: Use a soft brush or sponge with mild detergent. Test for colorfastness first.
2. Rinse: Use water with a bit of white vinegar.
3. Dry: Roll in a thick towel, stand on it to absorb moisture, then hang to dry.
Cleaning Small Synthetic Rugs
1. Washing Method: If machine-woven, use the gentle cycle in the washing machine. Otherwise, clean like natural rugs.
2. Dry: Hang to dry quickly to avoid mold and mildew.
PHOTO: Yueke
1. Regular Care: Vacuum regularly and treat spills promptly.
2. Test for Colorfastness: Dab detergent on a small spot with a white cloth.
3. Outdoor Cleaning: Lay the rug on a tarp, vacuum, and beat out dirt.
4. Detergent Choice: Use the appropriate detergent for the rug material.
5. Rinse and Scrub: Use a hose or sponge with cool water.
6. Dry Thoroughly: Use towels and hang to dry.
Cleaning Wall-to-Wall Carpet
1. Steam Clean: Rent or buy a steam cleaner, or hire professionals.
2. Furniture Removal: Move all furniture off the carpet.
3. Detergent: Use a detergent suitable for your carpet.
4. Machine Instructions: Follow your carpet cleaner’s directions.
5. Dry Completely: Allow up to 24 hours to dry fully.
PHOTO: Yueke
Immediate Stain Treatment: Blot with a white cloth and use carpet cleaner.
Annual Professional Cleaning: Deep clean once a year.
No Shoes Indoors: Avoid wearing shoes on carpets.
These tips will help you maintain clean and long-lasting rugs and carpets with minimal effort.
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