We all have been at that point in our lives when we decide it is time to spoil ourselves. Some of us invest in cars and properties, while others choose to buy some jewellery and fancy clothes. The latter often spruce their homes with china, crystal and some luxurious rugs from delicate and expensive fabrics.
Of course, having expensive items often means that they are also high maintenance. However, this should only sometimes be related to almost impossible tasks. With the proper knowledge, care and determination, anything is possible.
In this article, you will find all the needed information to keep your expensive rugs clean and fresh to prolong their quality.
Woven and braided rugs
These types of rugs are probably the most popular ones. This is because they are low maintenance and stain cleaning is relatively easy. However, you need to know that checking for stitching breaks every time before and after cleaning is necessary because they are braided.
As a matter of fact, woven and braided rugs can be easily washed in the laundry machine. But, of course, always remember to check the label on the rug to see if it is possible to wash there and what particular program is recommended. Usually, small-braided rugs are the ones that can often be laundry washed, while many large-braided ones should be hand washed.
It is essential to place the rug in a laundry bag so that you can protect it from damage. If you do not have any laundry bags, a pillowcase or a cotton shopping bag can do the trick too. If there is no information on the tag about what cycle to choose, the best option is to wash it with cool water. Ensure you put almost no detergent, and wash it on your laundry machine’s most gentle program.
When washing your large-braided rug, remember to put it on a vinyl or concrete floor. To receive the best results, put an old blanket or rag beneath it. Next, use a sponge to apply the carpet cleaner solution of your choice, and rub the surface according to the instructions on the label. Finish the cleaning by rinsing the product with clean water and leaving it to dry completely before putting it back in its place.
In case of any stains, use some baking soda, white vinegar and an old toothbrush. Just spread some baking soda over the stained area and embed it with the help of the toothbrush. Remember to gently brush the rug only one way to avoid damage. Once you are ready with this step, pour some white distilled vinegar onto the stain. You will see that it will begin to foam. When the chemical reaction is done, gently remove the foam with the toothbrush and continue
rubbing the stain until it fades away. If the stain is old, you might have to repeat the process. However, it would be better to consult with professional carpet cleaners for such a matter. Once the stain is out, leave the rug like that for 10 minutes and then wipe everything out with a damp towel.
Handmade, antique, hand-knotted and Oriental rugs
Unlike oriental rugs that can be simply vacuumed, delicate ones, like vintage and antique rugs, require more effort for maintenance. Such carpets need to have some sort of protection during the regular cleaning with your vacuum cleaner. You protect them by placing a nylon screen over them. In addition, make sure to put some weight on it. Is it book, brick or else, it is entirely your choice. After these two steps are done, you can vacuum the rug. Another way to try is to put a mesh nylon cover on the head of your vacuum cleaner. However, change it once you are done, as it will accumulate dirt.
With these types of rugs, it is essential to remember to rotate them regularly so that they can wear evenly. Of course, keeping them away from direct sunlight is crucial for their quality. Additionally, it is good to clean them professionally at least once a year.
If by chance you spill anything on such a rug, you need to know that immediate actions are necessary. With the help of a clean napkin, blot the stain out. As these rugs are incredibly delicate and might get easily damaged by everyday cleaners, use some mild ones. For instance, warm water with little soap or white vinegar can do the trick. Put the solution in a spray bottle and spray over the stain. Of course, before doing so, ensure it will not damage your rug
by testing it on a small area. If the colours do not start to fade, continue using the homemade cleaning product. You can remove the solution by pressing a clean towel over the stain. Do this until it is all gone. Make sure to dry your rug immediately after cleaning to prevent any further damage.
Rush, coir, sisal and grass rugs
Just like oriental rugs, rush, coir, sisal, and grass rugs can be regularly cleaned by simply vacuuming. However, it is interesting that these rugs are made so that dirt can go through them and onto the floor. This is because they have an open weave that allows such magic to happen. So, whenever it is time to do your regular vacuuming around the house, remember to put aside the rug so that you can clean all the dirt beneath it. Moreover, these rugs are usually made with two faces, so you can frequently flip the side to ensure even wear.
Unlike oriental rugs, however, removing stains from such carpets is much easier. You can remove almost all stains using a brush and soapy water. Just dip the brush in the soapy water and scrub until you have completely removed the stain. Once it is gone, rinse it well with clean water and remove as much moisture as possible. You can do that by using a towel or a hairdryer. This is essential because the water can weaken the rug’s fibres and get easily
damaged afterwards.
Sheepskin, fur and hair-on rugs
Needless to say, these types of rugs are not as popular as they were years ago. However, maintaining such carpets is a bit more complicated task that needs to be mentioned. First, of course, vacuuming such a rug is forbidden. As part of the regular cleaning, you can spread unscented talcum powder all over the carpet. Leave the powder for a few hours and shake it off. You can repeat this a few times until you receive the wanted result.
When you need to clean the back of such rugs, know that you can do this with just a little lukewarm soapy water and a soft cloth. You can wipe the dirt and dust with a cloth after soaking in the soapy water, and finish by wiping with a clean cloth and clean water. Leave the rug to completely air dry as heat and sunlight might damage it.
Unfortunately, stain treatment is close to impossible when it comes to these organic rugs. It is essential to know that in such cases, the thing that will help you is a mild bleach solution and enzyme-free detergent. A small amount of that solution must be mixed with 500ml warm water.
Put the mix in spray water and spray over the stain. Leave the solution to do its magic for a few minutes and rinse thoroughly afterwards. Then, with the help of a clean towel, remove as much moisture as possible and leave it air dry. However, if the stain is hard to remove or you need to believe in your cleaning skills, contact professional carpet cleaners. They are used to all rugs and have the necessary equipment and detergents.
An essential step of fur rugs maintenance is brushing. After any type of cleaning, regular or stain removal, brush them once when they are damp and once when completely dry. Shake them a little bit before placing them back in their place, and they will be fluffy again.
Conclusion
Sprucing your home with different types of rugs is all fun and games before it is time to clean them and maintain their quality. Knowing what you are buying for your home and how to take care of it will help you enjoy it for longer. Of course, if you are in a situation where you do not know what to do due to damage or a tricky stain, do not hesitate to ask for help from professionals. Better be safe than sorry.
