Explore our guide on how to clean a rug and discover useful tips to keep it looking its best at all times.
Regular Rug Cleaning
Keep your rug looking as good as new for longer with proper care and cleaning. Keep your rug spotless with these simple tips.
First Two Months: Brushing
During the first few months after purchasing a rug, it is recommended to gently brush it using a soft broom (never hard objects) to remove any loose fibres remaining from the manufacturing process.
Some threads may also protrude from the pile surface. In this case, it is important not to pull them, but instead trim them carefully with scissors so they remain level with the rest of the pile.
From the Third Month Onwards: Brushing and Vacuuming
After the first few months, in addition to daily sweeping, always following the direction of the pile, the rug should be vacuumed weekly. Vacuuming should be done at low power, in both directions of the pile, using smaller attachments for hard-to-reach areas.
Once a Year: Deep Cleaning
Once a year, a deep clean is recommended. This can be carried out by a professional cleaning service or at home by following these steps:
- Brush and vacuum the rug as usual.
- Clean it using a neutral detergent, preferably dry foam products. If using a liquid cleaning product, apply it with a white cotton cloth. This prevents the rug from becoming soaked and only transfers moisture. Coloured cloths may bleed and transfer colour onto the rug.
- Allow it to dry for several hours, preferably in a ventilated area. It is important not to walk on the rug until it is completely dry.
- Once dry, brush and vacuum the rug again.
Products to Avoid When Cleaning Your Rug
- Petrol: It is highly flammable and may cause fire hazards.
- Liquid ammonia: As it may alter the colours.
- Soap and other alkaline detergents: As they may damage the rug fibres.
Steps to Remove Rug Stains
1. Remove Any Residue
Remove any spilled residue before the fibres absorb it. Press with white paper or cloth to absorb excess liquid. For solids, scrape gently with a spoon or knife.
2. Choose the Right Treatment
Select the appropriate treatment depending on the type of stain. If several treatments are required, ensure the rug is dry before applying the next cleaning agent. In most cases, stains can be treated using a mixture of neutral detergent and bicarbonate of soda.
3. Test First
Carry out a test on a less visible part of the rug to check for possible colour changes before applying the treatment.
4. Apply the Product
Apply the chosen cleaning product using gentle movements, always working from the edge towards the centre of the stain to prevent spreading.
5. Do Not Rub the Pile
Do not rub the rug pile while removing the stain or during rinsing.
6. Ensure the Rug Is Dry
Ensure the rug is dry before moving on to the next step when more than one cleaning agent is required.
7. Rinse with Water
Rinse with clean lukewarm water using a sponge or clean cloth.
8. Press with Paper
Press with absorbent white paper or cloth to remove moisture once the stain has been removed.
9. Do Not Walk on the Rug
Do not walk on the rug until it is fully dry.
10. If a Stain Persists
If a stain cannot be removed using the recommended treatment, contact a professional cleaning service as soon as possible. All information provided in this guide is general advice. Always act promptly and carefully under your own responsibility.
How to Store a Rug Correctly
To store your rug correctly, once it is clean and dry, it is recommended to cover it with a cotton sheet or cloth, roll it up as tightly as possible, and wrap it in a plastic bag. Store it in a place away from direct light and moisture.
