Basic Rug Cleaning & Care

People tend to treat their rugs the same way they treat their carpet. They vacuum them every once in a while and then forget about them. Did you know that rug usually require special care? Here’s how to take the best care of your rugs so they last longer and look better.

• Washing small rugs: Check the label of your rug. Many small rugs are machine washable; if that is the case, shake the rug outside first and then put it in the washing machine at the recommended temperature. Use warm water (90 to 105 degrees) and a mild detergent. Tumble your rug dry at the lowest heat setting, and make sure it’s completely dry before you put it out again.
• Beating larger rugs: Larger rugs that can’t be washed in a home machine should be shaken and beat outside. It is easiest to place the rug over a clothesline and start beating with a rug beater or even a broom. Once you’ve beaten the rug to the point where dust no longer flies out, you’ll still need to take the rug inside and vacuum it. If the label says dry clean only, then roll it up and take it to a professional rug cleaner. Save time and frustration by calling first to see if the cleaner does rug cleaning, many do not. You can also trust your rugs of all types with Zachary’s Chem-Dry technicians who have been trained as an Area Rug Expert for off-site cleaning.
• Vacuuming area rugs: Area rugs with fringe require special technique in order to not damage the delicate fringe. When vacuuming, apply gentle suction and start from the center of the carpet, vacuuming toward the fringe while being very careful not to catch the strands in the beater bar. Lift the carpet edge to vacuum beneath the fringe.
• Caring for Oriental, Turkish or Persian rugs: Clean imported rugs according to the carpet manufacturer’s specifications or bring in a professional cleaning service. For heirloom-type rugs, you need professionals. Call Zachary’s Chem-Dry in Jacksonville today for rug cleaning experts you can trust!