Rug Care, Cleaning & Maintenance Tips
Proper rug care can help extend the useful life of area rugs, maintain their appearance and reduce premature wear. Cleaning methods and maintenance requirements can vary based on fiber, construction, dyes, age and condition, so delicate, antique or specialty rugs should be evaluated carefully before treatment.
How to Keep an Area Rug in Good Condition
Regular maintenance can help reduce uneven wear, fading, soil buildup and damage.
- Rotate rugs periodically. Turning a rug 180 degrees from time to time can help distribute foot traffic and sunlight exposure more evenly.
- Limit prolonged direct sunlight. Excessive UV exposure can contribute to fading and fiber deterioration over time.
- Keep rugs clean. Dirt and grit trapped in the pile can act as an abrasive and contribute to premature wear.
- Move or inspect rugs periodically. This can help identify moisture, insect activity, floor damage or uneven wear before the problem becomes more serious.
- Address spills promptly. Blot spills rather than rubbing them, which may spread the stain or damage the fibers.
How to Store an Area Rug
If a rug will be stored for an extended period, it should generally be cleaned and completely dry before storage.
- Roll the rug rather than folding it when practical.
- Use a breathable protective covering appropriate for rug storage.
- Avoid trapping moisture inside non-breathable wrapping.
- Store the rug in a clean, dry and well-ventilated area.
- Keep stored rugs away from excessive heat, moisture and pests.
- For valuable, wool, silk, antique or handmade rugs, consider professional storage recommendations.
Why Use a Rug Pad?
A properly selected rug pad can improve safety, stability and comfort while helping protect both the rug and the flooring underneath.
- Helps reduce slipping and movement
- Provides cushioning between the rug and floor
- Can reduce friction and premature wear
- Helps protect hard-surface flooring
- Can provide additional sound absorption
- May help improve the way the rug lies and performs
The appropriate rug pad depends on the rug type, floor surface and application. Pads that are excessively thick or too soft may not be appropriate for every rug, while low-quality pads may deteriorate or leave residue over time.
Routine Rug Cleaning & Maintenance
Routine cleaning should be appropriate for the rug’s fiber, construction and condition.
- Vacuum regularly using a setting appropriate for the rug.
- Use care around fringe, tassels and delicate edges.
- Vacuum in a consistent direction when appropriate for the pile.
- Remove surface dirt before it becomes deeply embedded.
- Have delicate, antique, handmade or specialty rugs evaluated before aggressive cleaning.
How to Handle Rug Spills & Stains
Spills should be addressed as quickly as practical, but aggressive home treatments can sometimes make a stain worse.
- Remove excess material carefully with a spoon or clean tool.
- Blot liquid spills with a clean white absorbent cloth or paper towel.
- Work from the outside of the spill toward the center to help limit spreading.
- Avoid aggressive scrubbing or rubbing.
- Test any cleaning product in an inconspicuous area first.
- Avoid mixing household chemicals or using strong solvents without knowing whether they are safe for the rug.
Different stains, fibers and dyes may require different treatment methods. Wool, silk, viscose, natural-fiber, antique and handmade rugs can be especially sensitive to moisture, chemistry and agitation.
Furniture Marks & Crushed Rug Pile
Heavy furniture can compress rug pile over time. Some impressions may improve gradually after the furniture is moved, while others may require careful grooming or professional attention.
Avoid aggressive brushing, excessive moisture or heat unless you know the method is appropriate for the rug’s fibers and construction.
Professional Rug Cleaning & Repair
Some rugs require more than routine home maintenance. Professional service may be appropriate for heavily soiled rugs, persistent stains, odor problems, damaged fringe, worn edges, loose binding, tears, structural damage or valuable rugs requiring specialized care.
Depending on the rug and condition, available services may include cleaning, stain treatment, fringe work, binding, resizing, repairs and other rug-care services.
For broader furniture and textile-related service capabilities, visit All Furniture Services®.
When to Call a Rug Professional
Professional evaluation is especially recommended when dealing with:
- Antique or handmade rugs
- Wool, silk or specialty fibers
- Color bleeding or dye instability
- Water or moisture damage
- Strong or persistent odors
- Pet stains
- Large or difficult stains
- Fringe or edge damage
- Structural rug damage
- Unknown rug materials or cleaning history
Request Rug Cleaning or Repair Service
For rug cleaning, stain treatment, repair or maintenance, submit photographs of the complete rug, close-up images of the affected area, approximate dimensions, material if known and the service location.