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How to Maintain Your Rugs to Make Them Last Longer: Full Guide

Decorating your home with a variety of rugs can brighten any room. With so many types of rugs to choose from, you can easily customize your living space. When it comes time to clean those rugs, however, size and material can make a huge difference.

In this guide, we'll discuss how to maintain your rugs no matter what material they're made from. Our guide also covers how to properly store rugs so that they stay as fresh and vibrant as the day you stored them. Should you need professional rug or carpet cleaning, the experts at Sunbird Carpet Cleaning of Bronx are here to lend a helping hand.

How Long Can a Rug Last

Most carpets and rugs last anywhere from five to 10 years, depending on several factors:

  • Material
  • Construction
  • Traffic level
  • Size
  • Exposure to sunlight
  • Routine care
How to Maintain Your Rugs: Guide
How to Maintain Your Rugs: Guide
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Average rug wear varies from one material to the next. However, rugs without special care are sure to wear out faster than those that are properly taken care of. The way you take care of your rug also contributes to its longevity.

For example, area rugs that are vacuumed but never washed can become odorous, especially in households with pets and children where spills and stains are common. These rugs may need replacing rather than cleaning because of the extensive damage done to the fibers. When taken care of properly, however, those same rugs can last for several years without issue.

The construction method of a particular rug can play a large part in its lifespan as well. Hand-woven rugs tend to be more delicate and may not hold up to continued use the way synthetic rugs can. Rugs of a sizable investment may require the proper care associated with professional cleaning.

The Risks of Dirty Rugs

Dirt on your rugs requires a consistent and frequent vacuuming schedule. However, here are some ways you can avoid getting dirt on your rugs:

  • Remove your shoes: It's as simple as that. Take off your shoes before you enter the house to leave dirt behind.
  • Clean your pet's paws before they come inside: Muddy paws can wreak havoc on your carpets. Wipe away dirt and debris with a microfiber cloth before letting your pet inside.
  • Immediately treat stains: Care for spills and stains as soon as you know of them. Responsive action can lessen the effects of the stain until you can schedule the professionals for deep cleaning.
  • Create a dirt barrier: It's often best to have a room or area (such as the garage) where dirty shoes and clothing are left behind. These areas are often tiled for easy cleanup.

In addition to tackling dirt daily, you can turn to the professionals to annually clean your rugs. Contact Sunbird Carpet Cleaning of Bronx, NY, to schedule your appointment for cleaner rugs you can continue to enjoy for years to come.

The Importance of Vacuuming Rugs - Removing Dust and Other Particles

Dust can come from a variety of sources, including dead skin cells, dust mites, pet dander, mold spores problem, pollen, dirt, and more. The longer dust stays on your rugs, the further into the pile it embeds itself. This can make the rug harder to clean and deodorize. Regularly vacuum your rugs to prevent dust from collecting in the rug fibers.

Storing and Moving Rugs

Knowing how to maintain your rugs includes properly storing them. Before you roll up the rug for storage, clean it thoroughly and allow it to dry completely. Rugs should never be creased and the most delicate part of the rug should face inward as you roll.

Avoid wrapping your stored rugs in plastic because the material can trap moisture and cause mildew and mold. Rugs should also be stored in an upright position, off the ground. You can also spray the rug with insect repellent. Store your rug in a cool, dry place until you're ready to unroll it.

If you need to move a rug, the process is very similar. The main difference is that you'll want to secure the rug tightly so that it doesn't unravel in transport or fall and cause injury.

Rug Life Preservation - Humidity Level in Your Home

Rugs are meant to stay clean and dry, but any moisture that gets into the fibers can cause many health issues. Trapped moisture in rug fibers can breed mold and mildew and promote odors. If you live in a particularly humid climate, consider underlays for all your rugs. These elevate the rug off the floor to provide airflow and prevent moisture from building up.

The Risks of Rugs Excessive Sunlight Exposure

An hour or two in the sun can indeed help your rug dry efficiently. The sunlight also works well to kill certain types of bacteria. However, too much sunlight can cause the rug to fade or even burn, should it get hot enough.

If sunlight naturally falls onto your rug through a window, consider turning the rug every time you clean it to promote even wear and reduce the risk of sunlight for your rug's longevity. Failure to rotate the rug every so often can result in patchy fading and ultimately replacement.

Rug Stain Threats

Stains are dangerous for rugs for a variety of reasons. Liquid or solid, these stains introduce moisture or debris into the fibers. This promotes insects and mold, which can easily transfer to a mouth if you have small children. Pet stains can also introduce unhealthy germs.

Preventing stains is easy with these tips:

  • Avoid eating or drinking near any rugs
  • Clean up spills and messes immediately
  • Regularly vacuum and clean rugs throughout the house
  • Avoid placing rugs beneath the kitchen table
  • Seek professional rug cleaning every 12 to 18 months

We have found that some rug owners are tempted to try to clean up stains themselves on occasion, but we encourage you not to do so. Any cleaning supplies used on a rug can interact negatively with the fibers or with future products used by our cleaners, and this can have unpredictable results that can ruin your rugs. Instead, call us anytime! The expert technicians at Sunbird Carpet Cleaning of Bronx, NY, are skilled at professionally cleaning your rugs so you don't have to.

Why Choose Us for Professional Rug Cleaning

Sunbird Carpet Cleaning of Bronx, knows that proper care of your rugs goes a long way in promoting your health. Let us professionally care for your rugs so you can continue to enjoy them for years to come. Don't spend hours on unproven do-it-yourself approaches - call the experts at Sunbird Carpet Cleaning of Bronx today for a free cost estimate over the phone at 718-701-2162.

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