Learning the proper way to clean an area rug helps keep its color, pattern, and beauty lasting longer. Using harsh products can damage the fibers and make them wear out more quickly, just like letting dust and dander accumulate. We gathered advice on how to effectively clean and remove stains from various rugs.
How Often to Clean an Area Rug
Vacuum your rug weekly to get rid of dust, dirt, and debris. It’s recommended to deep clean it once or twice a year and spot treat as necessary. However, these guidelines might vary based on foot traffic, pets, children, and allergies in your home.
Materials Needed
- Vacuum
- Bucket
- Water
- Natural dish soap
- Baking soda
- Soft-bristled brush
- Microfiber cloths
How to Clean a Woven Area Rug
Woven or braided rugs, often made from cotton, should be cleaned using a mild dish soap and water.
- Start by vacuuming the rug to remove any loose dirt and debris.
- Fill a bucket with warm water and add a few drops of mild liquid dish soap.
- Dip a soft-bristled brush in the soapy water and gently scrub the rug following the direction of the weave.
- Pay extra attention to any stains or heavily soiled areas, but be careful not to scrub too hard to avoid damaging the fibers.
- Rinse the rug thoroughly with a damp cloth and clean water, or take it outside and rinse it with a hose.
- Allow the rug to air dry completely in a well-ventilated spot, out of direct sunlight.
How to Clean a Patterned Area Rug
When cleaning a patterned rug, it’s crucial to use products that won’t harm the fibers or patterns.
- Vacuum the rug thoroughly to remove any loose dirt and debris.
- Fill a bucket with cold water and add a few drops of mild liquid dish soap.
- Dip a soft-bristled brush in the soapy water and gently blot the rug.
- Rinse the rug thoroughly to ensure no soapy residue remains.
- Let the rug air dry completely in a well-ventilated area, out of direct sunlight.
How to Clean a Sisal Area Rug
Sisal rugs, made from natural plant fibers, need careful handling during cleaning. Avoid getting them wet.
- Vacuum the rug to remove any loose dirt or debris.
- Sprinkle baking soda evenly over the rug.
- Gently scrub the rug with a soft brush.
- Allow the baking soda to sit on the rug for a few hours.
- Vacuum up the baking soda thoroughly.
How to Clean a Fur Area Rug
It’s best to spot treat a fur area rug to protect the fibers. Avoid using heaters or dryers for drying, as these can harm the fur.
- Vacuum the rug or shake it outside to remove any loose dirt or debris.
- Use a soft-bristled brush to clean off any remaining dirt or dust.
- Mix cold water and a few drops of mild liquid dish soap in a bucket.
- Dip a cloth in the soapy water and gently blot any stains or noticeably dirty spots.
- Rinse the cloth with clean water and blot the treated areas again to eliminate any soap residue.
- Let the area rug air dry completely.
How to Remove Stains From an Area Rug
If your area rug has stubborn stains after cleaning, use a targeted solution to address the specific type of stain. Always test the solution on a hidden area of your rug first to ensure it doesn’t damage the fibers.
- Coffee or tea: Blot with a cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible, then rinse with cold water. Mix equal parts cold water and white vinegar, blot the stain, then rinse.
- Oil stains: Sprinkle cornstarch over the stain to absorb the oil. Let it sit for about an hour, then gently work in a little dish soap with a brush and rinse.
- Tomato sauce: Scrape off excess sauce with a spoon or dull knife. Mix 1 tablespoon white vinegar with 2 cups water. Dampen a clean cloth with the solution and gently blot the stained area. Rinse with water and blot dry with a towel.
- Soft drinks: Absorb the liquid with a clean cloth. Mix two drops of mild dish soap with 1 cup lukewarm water. Dampen a microfiber cloth with the solution and blot the stain. Rinse with clean water and blot dry.
- Wax: Place a paper towel over the wax and gently press with a warm iron to absorb the wax. Repeat as necessary.
- Paint: Remove excess paint with a spoon or dull knife. Mix two drops of mild dish soap with 1 cup warm water. Dampen a clean cloth with the solution and gently blot the paint stain until it lifts. Rinse with clean water and blot dry.
- Pet accidents: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the stain and let sit for about 10 minutes. Blot with a clean cloth to absorb the moisture and odor. Repeat until the stain and odor are gone. Rinse with clean water and blot dry.
How to Remove Odors From an Area Rug
Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the area rug to help remove any lingering odors. Let the baking soda sit for at least 15 to 30 minutes to absorb the odors, then vacuum the rug thoroughly to remove the baking soda.