If you have area rugs and get them professionally cleaned regularly, you may wonder if that’s all you need to do. While professional cleanings are essential for the health and longevity of your area rugs, there are a few simple steps you can take between cleanings to keep them in top shape. Here’s what our area rug cleaning experts at Southside Chem-Dry in Norfolk want you to know.
Plan to Vacuum Regularly
Many homeowners say they vacuum regularly, but often aren’t sure how often that happens. The key is to create a schedule to ensure your rugs and carpets get the attention they need. We recommend vacuuming your rugs at least once a week. If you have pets or kids, or if your rugs are in high-traffic areas like entryways or hallways, you may want to vacuum even more frequently to keep dirt and debris at bay.
Stop Dirt from Being Tracked Inside
One of the easiest ways to protect your rugs is to stop dirt from entering your home in the first place. Since shoes are one of the biggest culprits for bringing in dirt, consider adopting a no-shoes policy inside. Place a shoe rack near your doors as a reminder and offer house slippers for family and guests. If shoes are a must indoors, make sure to use doormats and wipe your shoes thoroughly before entering.
Wear Socks Indoors
While shoes aren’t ideal for your carpets, socks can actually help. Our feet naturally produce oils that can transfer to rugs, which may affect their fibers and colors over time. Wearing socks or clean house slippers can protect your rugs from these oils. Just be sure to change your socks if you’ve worn them inside your shoes to keep them clean!
Rearrange Your Furniture
Rearranging your furniture not only refreshes your space but also helps distribute foot traffic more evenly across your rugs. This prevents excessive wear in one area. If moving furniture around isn’t practical, rotating your rugs can also help distribute the wear and tear more evenly, preventing certain spots from wearing out faster than others.
Dab Spills Right Away
Accidental spills are one of the most common causes of stains on area rugs. If something spills, act quickly by using a clean white cloth or paper towel to blot the liquid. Use light pressure and a dabbing motion to absorb the spill—avoid scrubbing, as that can push the stain deeper into the fibers and potentially damage the rug.
By following these tips, you’ll help keep your rugs looking great between cleanings. When it’s time for a professional area rug cleaning, Southside Chem-Dry in Norfolk, VA is here to help! Give us a call at (757) 471-0087 to schedule your appointment and let us take care of the rest.