How to Clean an Area Rug

Area rugs add a decorator touch to a room, help define spaces, and add warmth underfoot. Whether they are made from wool, natural grasses, or synthetic fibers, eventually they will need to be cleaned. Cleaning an area rug on any type of floor which can absorb water or cleaning agents and not dry properly, is just as important as cleaning the rug properly.

How Often to Clean an Area Rug

An area rug should be vacuumed at least weekly, ideally, several times weekly to keep dust and dirt from penetrating deeper into the fibers. If grit and dirt are allowed to dig down into the fibers, the backing can become damaged and, if you have them, even hardwoods beneath can end up with scratches.
 

Liquid spills and pet accidents must be cleaned up immediately. The moisture can seep through the rug and the protective pad underneath to the floor. The moisture will be trapped and, depending on the flooring underneath, leave watermarks on the wood that can be very difficult to remove or stain the wall-to-wall carpeting below the area rug.

Every area rug should be thoroughly cleaned at least twice per year and more often if foot traffic is heavy.
 

How to Clean an Area Rug:

Vacuum Away Dirt

Whether preparing to do a thorough cleaning or just routine care, vacuum the rug with a vacuum. If the rug is small enough, vacuum the top and then turn the rug over to vacuum the underside.
 

Spot Clean Stains

For small stains, place a plastic tablecloth or placemat under the affected area on top of the carpet pad. This will protect the floor underneath from moisture.
 

Many types of stains, especially dirt and food stains, can be removed by spot cleaning with a solution of one teaspoon of dishwashing liquid mixed with two cups of warm water. Apply the solution to the stained area with a soft-bristled brush. Allow it to work for about 10 minutes and then blot away the dirty water and stain with a clean cloth.
 

Remove Odors on Area Rugs

To both brighten and remove odors from an area rug, sprinkle the entire surface liberally with baking soda. If the pile is long or plush, use a sponge mop to gently work the baking soda down into the fibers to the backing.

Let the baking soda remain on the carpet for several hours overnight is best and then vacuum it away. The baking soda will absorb odors.
 

Clean With a Carpet Shampoo and Mop

Read the label on the carpet shampoo to determine if it must be diluted or can be used directly from the bottle.

Apply the shampoo with a sponge mop or soft-bristled brush. Use enough to completely wet the carpet but not so much liquid that the carpet is overly-saturated.

Use the brush in heavily stained areas to loosen any soil.

Finish by dipping the mop in fresh water and rinsing the fibers to remove soapy residue. Change the rinse water frequently until no more dirt or suds appear.
 

Clean With a Carpet Steamer

After preparing the room, an area rug can be cleaned with a home or rented carpet steamer. Follow the directions and use an approved cleaning solution recommended by the steamer's manufacturer.
 

Dry the Cleaned Carpet

Open windows, turn on ceiling fans, or add a circulating fan to the area to increase airflow and speed drying. When the surface feels dry, turn the rug over and allow the backing to dry.

Depending on the size of the area rug, drying time can be up to 48 hours. You must be patient and be certain that the rug is completely dry before placing it back on the floor.

Source: https://www.thespruce.com/clean-area-rug-on-hardwood-4799149