How to Clean an Area Rug on Hardwood Floor

Using area rugs on hardwood floors is now one of the most common trends in interior design since they are both comfortable and fashionable. But they have to be well maintained for the sake of the rug as well as the floor on which it is placed. Vacuuming is not sufficient, because rugs pick up dust, dirt, and stains throughout their use. They are used frequently by people’s feet, pet dander, and drop things on them so they usually need a more thorough scrubbing.  Let this expert guide explain to you how to clean your area rug and not harm your hardwood floor, how to maintain both, and have them looking as good as new for a long time.

Cleaning Based on Rug Condition

In this case, if your rug is in good condition then you may only clean a few areas or the entire rug may need cleaning. It is also important to always follow the care instructions because some materials are cleaned differently. For general cleaning, proper attachments of your vacuum cleaner should be used depending on the pile height and material of the rug. While spot cleaning methods differ from stain to stain and type of fabric, be selective.

If you want to clean your rugs thoroughly or get their looks back, then professional cleaning is recommended. It also means that professionals can wash out the set-in stains while also sanitizing your rug and making your hardwood floors look brand new.

Shake and Beat the Rug

To begin cleaning you need to tap the fabric vigorously so that dust falls off the fabric. Larger carpets can be thrown over a washline so that they are beaten while the small area rugs can be shaken to get rid of the dust on the surface.

Protect the Hardwood Floor

The next step to protect your hardwood floor is to place a big waterproof mat such as a plastic sheet underneath the rug. Begin by folding the rug right in half and placing the folded sheet on the floor. Then from the other side roll the rug up to the plastic sheet and then gently slide the rug over the plastic sheet up to the entire bottom side of the rug. This will help protect both the rug and the floor from developing a dampness problem or from damage by cleaning solvents.

Vacuum the Rug

It’s important to beat the rug to knock off loose dust and dirt before vacuuming. This will enable the vacuum to penetrate deeper fibers and clean the rug better as compared to other parts of the rug. Then, the right vacuum head should be attached. Beater brushes or rotating brushes should be used on cut pile carpets but can cause damage to loose fibers or higher pile carpet fabrics. One must always consult the manufacturer’s instructions when choosing the best vacuum type that will be appropriate for the rug to be cleaned without being destroyed.

Spot Clean Stains

choose the right cleaner. For pet urine clean using enzymatic cleaner to clear the smell of urine from the surfaces. The food stains should be ok with a regular carpet cleaner. Also, a cleaner should be appropriate for the fibers in your rug since using the wrong cleaner type can ruin the rug irreversibly.

If you prefer a DIY solution, try this simple homemade cleaner:

Ingredients:

1 part white vinegar

1 part warm water

A squirt of dish soap

Sodium bicarbonate only, and that too, not baking powder.

Instructions:

• In a spray bottle combine equal parts vinegar, water, and dish soap, and gently shake the container.
• Use baking soda and spread a little on the affected area.
• Apply your cleaning solution on the stained area, and make sure you cover a little more than the stained area.
• Allow it to stand for one or two minutes until no more foam is formed.
• This must be done by using a dry cloth to wipe off the stain and then using a wet cloth to wipe off the stain.
• Allow it to air dry and then vacuum up any remaining baking soda.

Steam Cleaning the Rug

It helps in removing dirt and germs by using hot moisture that will kill bacteria and other microorganisms in the rug.

However, steam cleaning should be used with caution, particularly on area rugs laid on hardwood floors. The hot moisture can penetrate the small holes and get to the wood part of the door. They should however avoid directly steam cleaning the floor as this might cause damage, instead, they should cover the floor adequately with some waterproof surface before steam cleaning.

Deodorizing Using Baking Soda.

Next, evenly distribute some baking soda over the entire carpet and allow it to remain in that state. It is best to do this overnight, but if you are in a hurry, take three to four hours at a minimum for it to be useful. After wiping carpets use a vacuum cleaner to wipe off completely the baking soda and any dirt absorbed by it.

Drying the Rug

Before putting the rug back on the hardwood floor the rug should be thoroughly dried. However, to ensure that your walls dry up faster, do not let the water soak on the walls for a long time, you can use a squeegee or a wet-dry vacuum to help you wipe off the excess water on the walls.

The last but most crucial step is to dry the rug flat. It must not be folded or hung since this will lead to the formation of unpleasant kinks or even warps. It is recommended to let it dry completely, so the product will stay in perfect condition for use.

Conclusion

In this way, area rugs can remain fresh and at the same time, the hardwood floor does not get damaged. Vacuum cleaning, correct stain removal, and drying properly help to maintain both. Always test cleaners and always make sure to put a waterproof barrier to avoid damaging the rug or floors, keeping our rug and floors looking as good as new.

FAQs

How frequently should I wash my area rug that is on the hardwood floor?

Vacuuming is necessary at least once a week, preferably more often if the traffic is heavy. The more intensive cleanings such as spot cleaning or shampooing depend on the stain or accumulation of dirt.

What must I do if my rug is shedding?

Shedding is expected for new rugs, especially wool rugs. Daily vacuuming and general cleaning should suffice but in case of excessive shedding, you should seek the services of a professional cleaner.

Is it possible to clean a rug without having to take it outdoors?

Technically, you can clean it indoors, but ensure that you cover the hardwood floor with a plastic sheet to avoid staining then ensure that there is enough room to dry.