An inexpensive throw rug used in front of an entrance door receives daily abuse and then you easily replace it with another of like value when it wears out. However, natural fibers need special attention to prolong the life of the carpet and provide you with many years of serviceability and enjoyment. Here are a few guidelines for your area rug care.
Water has the ability to damage anything but itself and causes more than grief as a result. It can quickly ruin natural fibers because it softens the tissues and they disintegrate. It is a good reason not to ever put potted plants on top of, or near, a fine carpet because condensation from the container is enough to rot the fibers. Allow the floor to thoroughly dry after mopping.
Standard floor covering typically gets routine vacuuming and cleaning, but it is sometimes difficult to imagine doing such things to fine floor covering such as natural fibers. However, they need attention once a week to keep dirt, dust and pollen out of them. You can test them by an old-fashioned method of lifting a corner and beat the carpet with your other hand. If dust flies, it needs cleaning according to instructions.
Avoid using commercial shampooing machines to clean these carpets because the brushes pull the fibers loose and result in fraying of the fabric. When they need cleaning, it is a better idea to use mild suds products intended for fine linens or wool instead of a big shampooing machine with harsh detergents. Bleach is not a good choice because it can damage the fibers, unless there is a good reason to return the rug to its snow-white appearance.
No one wants to think about having bugs in the home, but moths are particularly dangerous to natural fibers. The grown bugs will not eat the rugs, but the larvae will consume a considerable amount after they hatch. To detect an infestation, look for white cobweb effects and long, white worms, or otherwise dark areas especially under the carpet.
Carpet beetles are as bad as moths when laying their eggs in your carpets, but you can prevent it by keeping the carpet clean and free of dirty particles, even if you have to vacuum it once a week. You can use mothballs if you can tolerate the smell, but they will not kill the eggs. The chemicals do deter the adult insects, as well as pets who chew and scratch on the fabric thinking it a toy.
People of all ages walk on the carpets, and children play with their toys while sitting on these rugs. Regular damage from daily use and wear and tear is unavoidable, but some care can prevent uneven wearing. Avoid placing the carpets where warped floorboards create a high spot. The scuffing action of shoes will cause that spot to wear out faster. Make a note to turn the rug several times a year.
Natural fiber rugs have a tendency to wrinkle during shipping, but using a steam iron set to Wool easily removes these wrinkles, if you gently direct the steam on the folded areas. If the rug is out of square, you will be better off calling a professional to remedy this condition since it involves stapling the carpet down and using sizing mixed with water to reshape it. Otherwise, follow the guidelines for your area rug care.
Water not all the time causes any damage, but if you were to leave it on your shaggy rugs it may cause the fibers to weaken. It is important that you follow proper guidelines and care for the rug so that it will last a long period of time. Sign up and claim your free guideline rug care e-book for shaggy rugs, wool rugs, an more at www.carpetrugscollection.com.
Tags: area rugs care, Carpet, Floor, Furniture, home accessories, home design, home improvement, interior design, rugs, rugs care, shaggy rugs, shaggy rugs care