How To Clean A Rug Yourself? Cleaning Area Rugs, Oriental Rugs, Accent Rugs, And More In 8 Easy Steps

If your beloved oriental rug has lost its luster over time, don’t worry – a little TLC can work wonders! Rugs are prone to wear and tear from daily foot traffic, dirt accumulation, and spills, making them require periodic cleaning to maintain their appearance. Rather than adhering to a specific schedule, observe the condition of your rug and decide when it’s due for some maintenance.

Pay attention to any stubborn stains, flat spots, muted colors, or unusual odors – these signs indicate that it’s time to give your rug a good cleaning.

Step 1: Prepare the Equipment

To effectively clean your area rug, you’ll need to gather the following essentials:

A trusty vacuum cleaner is a must-have for getting rid of any loose debris.
For deeper cleaning, you can use either rug shampoo or mild dish soap, depending on the type of material your rug is made of. A bucket will come in handy for mixing and holding the cleaning solution.
A soft-bristle brush or sponge is necessary for gently scrubbing away dirt and stains.

And, of course, water is a crucial component to help loosen and remove dirt and grime.

If you’re dealing with particularly stubborn stains or tough-to-reach areas, having some rubber gloves on hand can be a lifesaver. A garden hose might also come in handy for spot-cleaning larger areas.
Lastly, if you have a wet-dry vacuum, it can be useful for sucking up excess water and drying the rug quickly.

However, if you’re dealing with an extremely delicate or valuable antique rug, such as a silk Persian rug, it’s recommended that you seek the expertise of a professional rug cleaning company to ensure its preservation.

Step 2: Vacuum

Before embarking on the rug cleaning process, it’s essential to gather all necessary tools. Once you have your arsenal ready, start by vacuuming the rug thoroughly to remove any dirt, debris, and loosen stubborn stains. To get into tight spaces and deeply embedded fibers, be sure to vacuum both sides of the rug. For pet owners, consider investing in a pet fur attachment for your vacuum to effectively tackle those pesky hairs and lingering dander.

Step 3: Mix the Cleaning Solution

Before cleaning your rug, it’s essential to check the label for any specific instructions or recommendations from the manufacturer. For most rugs, a mild dish detergent mixed with lukewarm water is a safe and effective cleaning solution. However, the temperature of the water is crucial – it should be lukewarm, not hot, to prevent shrinkage and fading of colors. If you’re using a commercial cleaner, be sure to follow the instructions on the bottle carefully.

For more delicate rugs like wool or antique pieces, consider using a gentle rug shampoo or dish detergent solution instead. Jute rugs can be cleaned with a mixture of baking soda and water, while flat-woven rugs are often suitable for use with commercial cleaners.

Step 4: Test Your Cleaner

Prior to commencing cleaning, it’s crucial to conduct a discreet test on an inconspicuous area to ensure the solution won’t compromise the rug’s vibrant colors. To do this, apply a small amount of the cleaner to a tiny spot in the corner of the rug and allow it to sit for a few minutes. Observe the colorfastness – if the rug retains its original hue without any bleeding or running, you can proceed with confidence.

Step 5: Wash the Rug

Once you’ve confirmed the cleaning solution is safe for your rug, apply it to the surface using a brush or sponge. Allow the solution to sit and penetrate the fibers for 5 minutes, giving it ample time to lift away dirt and stains. For more stubborn or deeply embedded spots, you may need to scrub gently several times before rinsing. If dealing with pet stains and odors, consider leaving an enzyme-based cleaner on for up to 30 minutes to effectively eliminate any lingering smells.

Step 6: Rinse the Rug

After removing the stains, thoroughly rinse the soap out of the rug using a clean sponge or rag and lukewarm water. For those who have the luxury of taking their rug outdoors, a garden hose can be an effective way to perform a deep cleaning and removal of any remaining cleaner. It’s crucial to ensure that all residue is removed to prevent it from crystallizing on the surface or causing discoloration over time.

Step 7: Let it Dry

When it’s time to let your rug air dry, use dry towels or a wet vacuum to extract excess water. Be mindful of the direction of the rug’s nap as you move it, and aim to follow its natural texture. If you were cleaning the rug outdoors, find a sturdy banister or drying rack to lift the carpet off the ground for optimal drying. Indoors, you can leave the rug flat until it’s completely dry, but lifting it is always the better option if possible.

To facilitate the process, consider opening your windows or using fans. A crucial step in this process is flipping the rug over to ensure the underside also dries thoroughly.

Step 8: Vacuum Once More

As you finish cleaning your area rug, take a moment to revive the fibers that were compacted during the process by giving it an extra vacuuming session. This final step will leave your rug looking refreshed and spotless once again. If your carpet still emits an unpleasant odor despite being clean, consider sprinkling baking soda on its surface and letting it sit for around 15 minutes before vacuuming up the residue. This should effectively eliminate any lingering odors.

At Doris Leslie Blau, we’re dedicated to helping you find the perfect Persian carpet or Oriental rug for your space. Our extensive showroom in New York City and online resources provide a wealth of information to guide your selection. For personalized guidance on choosing the right product for your needs, feel free to reach out to us online or call 212-586-5511.