How To Clean An Area Rug Without A Carpet Cleaner
Since an area rug is an essential feature in any space, a dirty, dull area rug can really ruin the overall aesthetic.
This is why it’s so essential to ensure the rug is cleaned regularly so that it maintains its vibrancy and quality.
Now with a carpet cleaner, cleaning any sized rug or carpet is quite a simple and easy process but when you’re without access to one, you’ll probably have to go about cleaning an area rug the old-fashioned way.
In this article, I’ll show you the exact steps you can take to clean any area rug without a carpet cleaner to achieve that clean and pristine look again.
Here’s what you need to do:
Table of Contents
Steps To Clean An Area Rug Without A Carpet Cleaner
Vacuum The Area Rug
The best way to remove a buildup of dust, dirt, grime, and debris is to vacuum the rug.
A vacuum with attachments is highly recommended since it can go deep into the rug and fibers which will ensure the carpet is cleaned well.
Vacuuming is also recommended as a first step to ensure we remove the dust before proceeding with a deeper clean. This will make the entire process much easier later on.
Clean Stains and Spots
Stains are bound to happen on an area rug but cleaning them as quickly as possible will help to retain the quality of the rug.
Create a gentle mixture of detergent or a rug cleaner in water and test an area of the rug to make sure it adheres well to the surface.
Go ahead and use a clean cloth to apply it to the rug and then blot away the stains. Try not to rub too vigorously or hard at a particular stain as this could lead to damage to the fibers.
This process might feel a tiny bit annoying but getting rid of the stains will help make sure your area rug looks better overall.
Get Rid of Odors
A smelly carpet can be a huge put-off. It’s always a good idea to make sure the rug smells good.
You can do this by sprinkling baking soda on the carpet and then letting it sit for a few minutes or hours depending on the rug.
Then vacuum the carpet to clean it up or use a wash cloth to wipe it clean. Alternatively, create a mixture of baking soda in water and spray it on to clean and deodorize the area rug.
Baking soda is a popular and effective natural deodorizer that works well to get rid of unpleasant smells that could potentially make the rug smell bad.
However, always test a small area or patch on the rug before committing to a large area.
Wash The Rug
Since we’re not using a carpet cleaner, your rug may require a deeper clean. This could mean washing the entire rug in a bucket of water and a safe cleaner or detergent.
You could also use a cloth/sponge to clean away the rug without scrubbing or rubbing too hard at the surface.
Finish up by rinsing the rug with water without soaking and drenching it or work in sections using a cloth to remove the residue from the rug.
Dry The Rug
Allow the area rug to air dry completely before you place it back inside. To make sure the rug dries even, place the rug on a clean surface so that it sits flat or hang it up to dry.
You’ll also want to consider flipping the rug so that it dries evenly on both sides.
A Few Essential Reminders:
Here are a few essential tips you’ll want to keep in mind when cleaning any rug. They are as follows:
- Read the manufacturer’s labels and instructions carefully when cleaning area rugs. It depends on the type, size, and quality of the rug to know which option will be better suited. Since you’re working without a carpet cleaner, it’s best to have a good idea of what works and what doesn’t.
- Stay away from bleach and harsh chemicals. If you use these products to clean the area rug, it’s very likely that it can lead to damage of your rug. It’s best to stick with cleaning products that will work according to your rug’s fibers and material.
- Delicate, expensive, or antique area rugs may require professional cleaning services as this will make it easier on you and also protect the rug from mistakes and damage. This can be an extra cost but in the long run, this can really save and prolong the life of your rug.
Final Thoughts
The process of cleaning an area rug with a carpet cleaner isn’t that confusing or difficult.
It’s very similar to cleaning any other rug but just ensure you’re taking the necessary precautions when using specific products.
With these steps, you can quickly and easily clean the area rug to ensure it looks clean, fresh, and smells good.
Regular maintenance will also ensure the rug maintains its quality, texture, and color for years to come.
If you have any further questions, feel free to message me or leave a comment below.
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