Area Rug Care and Maintenance: A Guide to Keeping Your Rugs Looking New

Area rugs are a beautiful and functional addition to any home, but like any piece of decor, they require proper care and maintenance to keep them looking their best. A regular cleaning routine not only extends the life of your rug but also ensures it remains a clean, beautiful centerpiece in your home. At Custom Carpet Center, we believe that proper care is the key to protecting your investment. This guide will provide you with the essential tips and best practices for keeping your area rugs looking new, from a simple cleaning schedule to handling spills and knowing when to call in the professionals.

Your Weekly and Monthly Cleaning Schedule

A consistent cleaning routine is the most effective way to prevent dirt and debris from settling deep into your rug’s fibers.

• Weekly Vacuuming: The most important part of your routine is weekly vacuuming. For a low-pile rug, a simple pass with a vacuum cleaner is all that’s needed. For a high-pile or shaggy rug, use the vacuum’s upholstery attachment or set the beater bar to a higher setting to avoid damaging the fibers. Be sure to vacuum in different directions to get all the dirt and debris.
• Monthly Rotation: To ensure your rug wears evenly, rotate it 180 degrees every month or so. This will prevent a single area from fading or becoming compressed from constant foot traffic or sun exposure.

Handling Spills and Stains

Accidents happen, but knowing how to properly handle a spill can make all the difference in preventing a permanent stain.

• Act Fast: The golden rule of spill cleanup is to act immediately. The longer a liquid sits on the rug, the more likely it is to set.
• Blot, Don’t Rub: Never rub a stain. Rubbing will only push the liquid deeper into the fibers and can damage the rug. Instead, use a clean, white cloth or paper towel to gently blot the area until the liquid is absorbed.
• Use a Rug-Specific Cleaner: For tougher stains, use a cleaning product designed for your rug’s material. We have a variety of rug and cleaning products available at our multiple locations. Our staff can help you choose the right product for your rug.

The Importance of Professional Cleaning

While a regular cleaning routine can do wonders for your rug’s appearance, a professional cleaning is essential for a deep and thorough clean.

• The Deep Clean: Professional cleaners have the tools and expertise to remove the dirt, dust, and allergens that have settled deep into the rug’s fibers over time. We recommend a professional cleaning every 12 to 18 months, especially for rugs in high-traffic areas or homes with pets.
• Protecting Your Investment: Professional cleaning not only makes your rug look new but also helps to extend its life. It can restore its natural bounce and luster, ensuring it remains a beautiful centerpiece in your home for years to come.

At Custom Carpet Center, we are committed to providing you with the knowledge and products you need to care for your flooring. From professional cleaning recommendations to a wide selection of rug-specific products, we are here to help you protect your investment and keep your rugs looking their best.

Starting as a supplier to new home builders, Custom Carpet has grown into the Number One floor covering dealer in the WNY area. We have expanded to five full-service locations and a shop-at-home service in Western New York, including Olean. With over 60 employees and 50 installation crews, we are structured into three distinct divisions—retail/residential, commercial/contract, and new home builder—to expertly meet the needs of each customer. Our expertise includes a wide range of products like carpet, hardwood, luxury vinyl, and waterproof flooring. For over 50 years, we have upheld a strict policy of never selling seconds or off-grade goods, and our nightly follow-up calls show that over 96% of customers would recommend us to a friend. We invite you to contact us or visit one of our showrooms in Orchard Park, Williamsville, Tonawanda, Niagara Falls, Jamestown, or use our convenient shop-at-home service in Olean, NY.