Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Keeping Your Area Rug Clean

By Luke Pharkos

Having an area rug in your home is beautiful but keeping it clean and stain free can be a very difficult task. There are several different ways that you can keep your rug clean. Here are some tips to keeping your area rug clean and stain free.

The very first rule that you should implement is not to have food on or near your area rug. It is often said that, 'prevention is better than cure'. This is the case with area rugs, as the best way to keep your rug stain-free is to not give anyone the chance to spill something on it. In some cases this may be effective, but in others it simply is not feasible. Many people have area rugs in places where they are constantly exposed to possible spills.

An area rug requires regular maintenance. Regular vacuuming is a must and should be done at least once every month. This helps to remove any dirt or dust trapped in your area rug, keeping your home cleaner and free of allergens. Many people have allergic reactions to the dust that builds up in area rugs and it is important that you get rid of this dust before it has the chance to become a major problem.

When a spill does happen on your area rug the first thing you need to do is to blot the spill with a dry cloth. This helps you to soak up the excess liquid that may still be one carpet. Dilute the spill with water so it will release from the fibers and blot it up some more. Allow the area to dry thoroughly so that molds and fungus does not begin to grow. You may also need to use a solvent to help you lift up the stain.

You can use a mild rug detergent in order to remove stains that may occur during everyday use. This will also help to keep your rug looking new and clean. There is a problem with using some rug cleaners. Over time they can cause the fibers to deteriorate and the rug will eventually fall apart. Before that happens the carpet may become weak and crumbly or it may become frayed.

A final tip is that you should have your rug professionally cleaned every once in a while. No matter how well you clean your rug and how clean you keep it; your rug is bound to become dirty over time. Allowing a professional to clean your rug every so often will ensure that your rug stays properly clean for as long as you have it. Keeping your area rug clean is essential not only for your home to look good, but also for the health of you and your loved ones. - 15252

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