How to Remove and Fold an Area Rug

Area rugs can be a room's focal point, bringing warmth and color to bare floors. Occasionally, you may need to remove a rug for a variety of reasons, such as home improvement projects, new pets and large gatherings. Area rugs run from moderately expensive to quite costly, so removing and storing the area rug properly is key to avoiding any damage to your investment. Removing an area rug requires some effort and a little preparation but is a simple process that any homeowner can manage.

Cardboard tube
Acid-free tissue paper
Cotton sheet
Sheet of muslin

Instructions

- 1
  Inspect the rug to determine the condition of the rug pile versus the rug backing. Usually the rug pile is more in danger of being damaged than the backing, but on very old rugs the opposite may be true. The more delicate side will be rolled on the inside to help protect it from further damage.
- 2
  Cover a cardboard tube with acid-free tissue paper, then wrap the tube with a cotton sheet, leaving 2 feet of sheet hanging from the tube.
- 3
  Place the tube on the floor with the extra sheet stretched out flat and smooth. Place the rug on top of the sheet 1 foot from the tube.
- 4
  Lay the muslin sheet out flat on the floor at the far end of the rug with 1 foot of the sheet under the rug.
- 5
  Roll the tube toward the rug. The rug will catch on the sheet and should roll up evenly. Continue rolling onto the muslin sheet. The sheet will wrap around the rug, forming a protective barrier from dust.
- 6
  Tie the rug with strips of muslin or cotton sheeting. Use several ties to hold the rug securely.

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