Finding the ideal rug can be a real treat. When you've chosen a rug that ticks all of your boxes, you'll need to know how to care for it properly. There's no need to pay high rates to have your rugs professionally cleaned or replaced if you spill something or your pet has an accident. You can take steps to not only clean your rugs but also to prevent them from staining in the first place. The care label on your rug should be your first stop, but if it isn't informative enough, these tips can help.
Regular Maintenance
Maintaining your carpets and rugs regularly will help keep them looking beautiful and your house feeling warm and inviting. This can be done in one of two ways. The first is with a vacuum. Rugs should be vacuumed once or twice a week at the very least. Consider vacuuming more frequently, up to twice a day, in high-traffic areas. To neutralize odors and keep your carpeting smelling fresh, sprinkle a little baking soda on the surface before vacuuming.
You can also clean a rug using a stiff-bristled broom and a dustpan if you don't have a vacuum. This is a particularly simple cleaning approach if you have a low-pile carpet. If you're cleaning thicker, high-piled, or shag carpets, you'll need patience and a keen eye because dirt is more easily buried in the fibers. You can also wrap a rubber band around the bristles of a flimsy broom to make them more firmly bonded and more effective.
Have a Good Rug Cleaner on Hand
Having a rug cleaner on hand pays off big time because most stains are easiest to clean when you act quickly. While some people will want a variety of cleaners, the majority of people will only require a reliable all-purpose cleaner. Make sure you use the carpet cleaner according to the product's instructions. Alternatively, a solution of water and white vinegar can also work for most stains. If your spot is fresh, always start by blotting it with a highly absorbent cloth or a roll of paper towels. The rinsing comes next. Rather than scrub, continue to dab at the stain and the cleanser to remove.
Cleaning Different Types of Stains
When a stain first happens, you want to handle it as quickly as possible. Before cleaning, you need to clear the area of any physical debris. To avoid pushing the stain deeper into the pile, don't use a paper towel or rag at this time. To gently push the dirt or debris away, use an instrument like a fork or a spoon. Then clean the area according to the stain type. While some stains can be treated the same way, certain stains require a special touch. Keep reading to discover how to get rid of the most common stains.
How to Clean Pet Stains
Pet stains are one of the most prevalent and unpleasant stains people face. Untreated, urine stains will smell horrible. As a result, these stains are not only unsightly, but they may also present a health concern. The most important thing to remember is to never use a steam cleaner when it comes to pet stains. The high heat will intensify the odor while also helping to set the stain. Instead, treat them like any other stain, just with a pet stain-specific remover.
How to Clean Wine Stains
A red wine stain can be a hassle to remove. If you don't have time to immediately care for it, blot out as much of the liquid as you can and then cover it with and let it sit for a couple hours or until you can get to it. The salt will absorb leftover wine, and when it's dry, you can simply vacuum it up. If you do have the time, blot up the excess, then follow with a paste consisting of a three-to-one ratio of baking soda to water. Let that dry, then vacuum and follow with a stain remover.
If you just happen to find a dried-up wine stain that's been sitting, for who knows how long, that's when clean-up gets tricky. Dried stains need to be saturated in hot water first, then you need to apply a stain remover followed by an oxygen-based cleaner for at least 2 hours. Rinse, let dry, and the stain should be gone.
How to Clean Coffee or Tea Stains
Coffee and tea are other common types of stains. And thankfully, a little easier to clean. To remove these stains, you first should blot the area with a cloth or paper towel. Then you'll want to thoroughly apply your carpet cleaner or your vinegar mixture with some added detergent, then rinse with water. Repeat steps as needed, and you're good to go.
How to Clean Ink Stains
Had a pen explode onto the floor? Or maybe the kids left some markers out? Whatever the reason, don't fret; try these steps instead. Take your desired cleaning solution or rubbing alcohol and dampen a cloth with it. Dab (don't rub) the dampened cloth into the spoiled area and let it sit for 5 mins. When ready, rinse with water and let dry. Please remember not to rub or scrub the area, only dab it.
There's a lot to think about when cleaning a rug, and there's more than one way to go about it. But, by acting quickly and having the proper tools on hand, you can save a lot of money and time on most spills. As always, if you need any more help, give us a call or visit us in-store to talk with one of our experts. Karvonen's is always happy to help!