Area rugs can add wonderful accents to any living space, offering more variety and personal touches than plain wall-to-wall carpets. However, they also require more care, depending on the type of rug and its materials. To keep your rugs in the best shape, they should be brought to a Elmhurst area rug cleaning specialist every year or two. For day-to-day maintenance, always follow the recommendations of the manufacturer or seller, and check out these tips for handling different types of rugs.
Antique Handmade Rugs
While many modern oriental rugs are made of tough wool or else synthetic fibers that can be vacuumed and cleaned like regular carpeting, vintage and antique area rugs must be treated more delicately. Avoid vacuuming them directly; instead, place nylon mesh over either the rug or the vacuum’s cleaning attachment to keep from sucking up the individual fibers. More rigorous cleaning may damage an antique carpet, so bring it annually to an Elmhurst area rug cleaning service experienced with vintage rugs to maintain its condition.
Sheepskins and Furs
To remove odors and moisture that could lead to mildewing, sprinkle unscented talcum powder onto the wool or fur. Let it sit for a few hours, then brush it through the hairs and shake out the rug afterwards. Soapy water and a cotton rag can be used to clean the hide back of a rug, being careful to rinse and thoroughly dry afterwards.
Woven and Braided Rugs
Some smaller braided rugs can be machine-washed in a laundry bag or pillowcase and tumble-dried, as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Larger rugs that won’t fit in a washing machine can be cleaned by spreading out on a concrete or vinyl floor and using commercial carpet shampoos. For more soiled rugs, bring to an Elmhurst area rug cleaning specialist.
Grass, Rush and Open Weaves
Rugs made of natural grass and grass-like fibers often have loose, open weaves that can let dirt sift through to the floor below, so when vacuuming be sure to pick up the rug and vacuum underneath it as well. To spot-clean stains, put a towel or a plastic tarp under the rug, scrub it gently with a soapy sponge or soft brush and blot it off afterwards with a rag or paper towel.
Different types of rugs require different types of Elmhurst area rug cleaning. Whether it’s an antique oriental carpet or a sheepskin rug, careful treatment from an Elmhurst area rug cleaning service will keep it in top condition.
