The Best Way to Clean Area Rugs

Daily Cleaning

• Vacuum your area rug one to two times per week to cut back on the accumulation of dirt and dust. Raise the vacuum to the highest setting to protect the nap of the rug from excessive abrasion, or use a hand-held carpet sweeper in lieu of a canister vacuum for delicate rugs. If you have pets or the rug is located in a heavily-trafficked area, vacuum more often to keep it clean. Every one to two weeks, sprinkle baking soda evenly over the rug and let it sit overnight, vacuuming it up in the morning. Baking soda absorbs odors trapped in the rug without the use of shampoo and water, stretching the length of time you can go between deep cleanings.

Dealing With Spills

• Juice, soda and pet accidents turn your rug into a sticky, smelly mess, trapping dirt and staining the fibers. Clean spills immediately with a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar to eliminate discoloration and odors. Blot up as much of the spill or accident as possible with a clean rag and spray the vinegar solution on the affected area. Be careful not to over-saturate the rug, as this can lead to mold development. Blot the area with a clean cloth. Repeat this process until the spill disappears and the rug smells clean. Place a fan nearby and point it toward the wet area to help it dry faster. When vinegar doesn't work, opt for store-bought carpet stain remover or another homemade solution, such as diluted dish washing detergent or plain vodka.

Deep-Cleaning Your Area Rug

• Deep clean area rugs every one to three years depending on how much foot traffic the rug receives. Vacuum the rug first to remove any loose dirt and debris. Fill a bucket with warm water and add 1 cup of white vinegar and a few tablespoons of carpet shampoo or mild dish washing detergent. Scrub the rug starting at one side and working your way to the other with a clean sponge, cloth or soft-bristle brush. Rinse the rug under running water outside or in a bathtub and then set it outside to dry. Avoid direct sunlight when drying dyed rugs; sun exposure has a natural bleaching effect. As an alternative, place a fan nearby to help circulate air over the rug, flipping it over often so it dries evenly and quickly. Avoid storing the rug or placing anything on it until it is completely dry. Once dry, vacuum it thoroughly to fluff up the pile.