How to Clean a Rug in 5 Simple Steps

A clean rug doesn’t just enhance your home's aesthetics; it also results in a healthier living environment. With proper cleaning, you can eliminate dirt, allergens, and stains while preserving the beauty of your rug for years to come. Whether it’s an oriental rug, a shaggy rug, or an area rug, Homeline has you covered, the following five steps will help you achieve professional-level results at home.

Step 1: Prepare Your Rug for Cleaning

Good preparation will make the cleaning process a lot easier by removing loose debris. This step is especially crucial for rugs near an entrance that have accumulated dirt over time.

Start With Vacuuming

• Vacuum Both Sides: Begin with the top of the rug. Use a vacuum cleaner to suck up dust, hair, and dirt. Flip the rug over and vacuum the underside, as dirt often seeps through to the back.
• Edge Cleaning: Pay extra attention to the rug’s edges where dirt tends to accumulate.

Shake and Beat (If Possible)

For smaller rugs, take them outside, hang them on a sturdy clothesline or railing, and beat them with a sweeping brush or rug beater. This helps loosen embedded particles that vacuuming might miss.

Special Care for Delicate Rugs

• For oriental rugs, avoid aggressive vacuuming to prevent fibre damage.
• For shaggy rugs, shake thoroughly instead of vacuuming to protect the long fibres.

Step 2: Test for Colour Fastness

Rugs come in a variety of materials and dyes, some of which may bleed or fade when exposed to cleaning agents. Testing for colour fastness ensures your rug can handle the cleaning solution without damage.

How to Test

1. Mix a small amount of warm water with a gentle detergent or white vinegar.
2. Apply the mixture to a hidden corner or edge of the rug using a soft cloth or sponge.
3. Blot the area gently and check the cloth for any dye transfer.

If the colours remain intact, you’re ready to keep cleaning. If not, opt for gentler cleaning methods or consult a professional.

Step 3: Spot Clean Stains Immediately

Spills and stains can quickly become permanent if not dealt with swiftly. Spot cleaning is a crucial step in rug maintenance.

General Guidelines

• Act Quickly: The sooner you address a stain, the easier it is to remove.
• Blot, Don’t Rub: Use a clean, damp cloth to blot the stain gently. Rubbing can push the stain deeper into the fibres.

Natural Remedies for Stains

• Baking Soda: Sprinkle baking soda directly on the stain and let it sit for 15 minutes to absorb moisture and odour. Vacuum it up afterwards.
• White Vinegar Solution: Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar. Apply to the stain, blot with a clean cloth, and repeat as needed.

Tackling Tough Stains

• For wine or coffee spills, use a combination of dish soap and vinegar.
• For oil-based stains, apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol, blot, and rinse.

Want a cohesive look for your living spaces? Complement your rug with a stylish coffee table.

Step 4: Deep Clean Your Rug

Over time, even regularly vacuumed rugs need a deep clean to remove dirt embedded deep in the fibres. Depending on the rug’s size and material, you can choose between hand washing or steam cleaning.

Hand Washing

1. Fill a bucket with warm water and mild detergent.
2. Use a soft-bristle brush or sponge to scrub the rug in the direction of the fibres.
3. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove soap residue.

Steam Cleaning

Steam cleaning is highly effective for area rugs and rugs on carpets. Use a home steamer or rent a professional-grade one:

1. Fill the steamer with water and a recommended cleaning solution.
2. Run the steamer across the rug slowly, ensuring each section gets adequate attention.
3. Allow the rug to dry thoroughly.

Materials-Specific Tips

• For wool rugs, avoid excessive water to prevent shrinking.
• For shaggy rugs, avoid deep soaking, as the fibres take longer to dry.

Step 5: Dry Your Rug Proper

Drying your rug properly is an important step that is often overlooked. It helps to prevent mould, odours, and fibre damage.

Drying Methods

• Air Dry: Lay the rug flat in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Flip it occasionally to ensure both sides dry evenly.
• Use Towels: For smaller rugs, roll the rug in a towel to absorb excess moisture. Repeat with a dry towel if necessary.
• Hang Larger Rugs: Drape larger rugs over a railing or clothesline, ensuring they’re fully supported to avoid stretching.

What To Avoid  

• Don’t place wet rugs on carpets, as moisture can seep through and damage both layers.
• Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade colours, especially in oriental rugs.

Tips for Maintaining Your Rug

1. Regular Vacuuming: Vacuum weekly to prevent dirt build-up.
2. Rotate Your Rug: Rotating every few months helps distribute wear evenly, especially in high-traffic areas.
3. Use Rug Pads: Pads prevent slipping and reduce wear by providing extra cushioning.

A Clean Rug for a Comfortable Home

Keeping your rugs clean not only gives them a longer lifespan but also keeps your living space clean and inviting. By following these five steps, you can confidently maintain your rugs at home without the expense of professional services. Discover our stylish rugs collection and living room furniture to find the perfect options for your home.

Explore our blog for more expert tips on home care and stylish furniture to complement your living spaces. Let us help you create a space you’ll love to live in!