How to clean rugs?
PRACTICAL GUIDE
HOW TO REGULARLY CLEAN CARPETS?
First two months: brushing
For the first few months following the purchase of a rug, it is advisable to carry out a light brushing with a soft broom (never hard objects) to remove any lint that may have remained after the manufacturing process.
Also, some threads may stick out from the surface of the pile, in this case it is important not to pull them but cut them with scissors to leave them at the same height as the rest.
From the third month: brushing and hoovering
From the first few months, in addition to the daily sweeping, always in the direction of the pile, the rug should be hoovered weekly. The hoovering should be done at low power, in both directions of the pile and using smaller accessories if there are difficult to reach areas.
Once a year: thorough cleaning
Every year, a thorough cleaning of the rug is recommended, which can be done in a specialised establishment or at home, following the steps specified below:
- Brush and vacuum the rug as usual.
- Clean with a neutral detergent, preferably dry foam. For the application of a liquid cleaning product, use a white cotton cloth. In this way the rug is not soaked and only moisture is transmitted. If you use a coloured cloth, it may fade and transfer colours to the rug.
- Let it dry for several hours, preferably in a ventilated place. It is important not to step on it until it is completely dry.
- Once dry, brush and vacuum again.
Products that should not be used for cleaning rugs
Benzine
It is flammable and there is a risk of causing a fire.
Liquid ammonia
Because it can change colours.
Soap and other alkaline detergents
Because they can damage the rug fabric.
HOW TO CLEAN STAINS FROM A CARPET?
Steps to remove stains from a rug
Remove spilled
Remove spilled remains before it is absorbed by the fabric. Press with paper or white cloth to remove the unabsorbed liquid. For solids, scrape with a spoon or knife.
Select the treatment
Select the appropriate treatment according to the type of stain. Remember that if several treatments are required, the rug must be dry before applying the second or third cleaning agent.
Coffee, liquid chocolate or tea
- Light fuel such as petrol, white spirit or solvent for dry cleaning. Remember to be in a well-ventilated area away from cigarettes or fire as these are highly flammable products.
- Cold water.
- A solution consisting of a teaspoon of detergent suitable for wool and one teaspoon of white vinegar dissolved in one litre of warm water.
Perform a test
Perform a test on a small part of the rug to check for possible colour changes prior to treatment.
Apply the product
Apply the product chosen for the treatment with gentle movements, always from the edge towards the centre of the stain to avoid its spreading.
Do not rub the rug
Do not rub the rug pile during stain removal or rinsing phases.
Make sure the rug is dry
Make sure the rug is dry before proceeding to the next step when more than one cleaning agent is needed.
Clean water
Rinse with warm, clean water using a clean sponge or cloth.
Press with a paper
Press with a paper or white absorbent fabric to remove moisture, once the stain is removed.
Don't step the rug
Don't step on the rug until it's dry.
If any stain is not removed
If any stain is not removed with the proper treatment, contact a cleaning professional as soon as possible. Everything in this guide is general advice, act swiftly and cautiously, always under your own responsibility.