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How to Get Lumps Out of Folded Up Carpeting

Carpets and rugs sometimes come from the store having been rolled or tightly folded. These storage methods often result in a lump, bump or pronounced crease once the carpet is laid flat on the floor. Normally the carpet or rug will relax and flatten over a period of a few days or weeks. However, if you wish to speed up this process, there are a few methods you can try.

Things You'll Need

  • Heavy furniture (optional)
  • Professional carpet steam cleaning (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Roll or fold the carpet in the opposite direction in which it was originally folded. Be careful to listen for cracking noises, as this means damage is being done to the carpet backing. If you hear this type of noise, do not force the carpet any further.

    • 2

      Allow the carpet to rest in the newly folded configuration for a few hours, then unroll. If this method does not give you the results you want, proceed to step three.

    • 3

      Use heavy furniture to weigh down the carpet folds for a few days. If this method does not give satisfactory results, continue on to the next step.

    • 4

      Lay the carpet out flat in direct sunlight for a few hours when it is between 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The sun's warmth will help to relax the carpet backing. Continue to step 5 if you still are not satisfied with the results.

    • 5

      Have the carpet professionally steam cleaned. This will smooth out any remaining bumps.