Area rugs complete the look of your home by adding color and improving the overall ambiance. But constant use, high-foot traffic, and wear and tear can leave your area rugs looking dull and drab.
Regular vacuuming is the best way to prevent this. However, you need to do it right, as improper vacuuming can do more harm than good. So, in this blog, we have delved into some do’s and don’t of area rug vacuuming to help you protect your valuable investment.
Common Do’s and Dont’s for Vacuuming an Area Rug
Do’s
⇒ Maintain a Regular Schedule
If you want to see results with vacuuming, you need to do it consistently. It will keep the dirt and dust at bay and protect your rug from these contaminants. So try to vacuum the rug at least 2-3 times a week. Also, consider increasing the frequency if you have sensitive individuals in the house.
⇒ Use Upholstery Attachment For Old Rugs
Old rugs are highly delicate and can get damaged easily from regular vacuums. To prevent this, use an upholstery attachment and go over the entire rug once or twice. It will remove dirt and grime from the old rug without damaging it and maintain its appearance.
⇒ Vacuum the Back Side First
Many homeowners neglect cleaning the back side of the rug, as they think it’s not visible. But that’s a huge mistake, as leaving the backside dirty can lead to many issues later on. To prevent this, vacuum the backside first to remove the deep-seated dirt and protect your rug.
⇒ Invest in Rug Pads
Invest in rug pads and put them below the rugs before vacuuming. It’ll support the rug and help you vacuum it better. They are also good for a rug’s backing and help maintain the shape.
Don’ts
⇒ Use Vacuum’s Beater Bar
Using a vacuum’s beater bar is a common rug-cleaning mistake many homeowners make. These beaters agitate the delicate rug fibers and cause wear and tear. You should avoid using them for all area rugs except the ones with a thick pile to prevent excessive damage.
⇒ Vacuum Against Rug’s Nap
Vacuuming against a rug’s nap is a big no. Doing so can cause excessive stress on the rug fibers and lead to wear and tear. It can cause irreversible damage to the rug, so it’s best to vacuum with the original direction of the rug’s nap.
⇒ Vacuum the Rug’s Fringe
The rug’s fringe is very delicate, and even the smallest force can end up damaging it. Vacuuming it can ruin its pristine appearance and lead to costly expenses. That’s why you should hand-brush the fringes of your rug to keep it looking spotless without any side effects.
⇒ Vacuuming Over Loose Threads
Vacuuming over loose threads of the rug may look tempting. But it’s a mistake that can cost you a lot in the long run. Instead of vacuuming these loose ends, trim them with a scissor to prevent excessive damage.
Bottom Line
These do’s and don’ts for vacuuming area rugs will help you clean your rugs more effectively and remove the accumulated dirt and grime from them. So remember to clean both sides of the rug and use the proper tools for the job to preserve your rug’s longevity.
