When we say “floor rugs,” they are much more than just a décor accessory. They are one of the simplest ways to give your home comfort and insulation during those colder days. Unfortunately, these essential home items often get worn out much faster than other design elements. So, why not spend some time caring for your rugs?

Whether you have just had a new rug placed in your home or you are planning to purchase one, these are some basic steps to make your area rug last longer.

Always remove shoes

A completely classic starting place for keeping your rugs new for years is removing shoes. Following a “no-shoes policy” is always simple, but extremely effective. By asking your family members and guests to remove their shoes, you can minimise the dirt and grit that collect in rug fibres.

You can even place soft-soled slippers at the door for visitors. With this, you can reduce the build-up of abrasive particles and eradicate the chances of hard-soled shoes grinding your floor rugs.

Vacuum your area rugs

Probably the most popular way to clean and maintain a home rug is vacuuming, which makes it certain that no debris remains stuck underneath your rugs. The amount of vacuuming varies depending on the type and the size of your floor rug.

In general, it’s a good idea to vacuum your rug at least twice a week. Additionally, make sure you turn the rug over and vacuum it every three to eight months. Keep in mind that high-traffic areas need more attention.

Spot clean to get rid of stains

Many rugs come with stain warranties, but guess what? Still, you have to take care of stains. When a spill stays there in the fabric, it might oxidise into a permanent stain. The idea is to treat spills and stains as soon as they appear. Make sure you use the right substances and spot cleaning method to remove spots from your rugs. If you’re unsure of how to clean your rugs, refer to our guide.

Rotate your furniture

If the design of your interior allows it, try to rotate your furniture every six months. This is because each piece of furniture creates divots in the rug. By shifting your furniture every once in a while, you can avoid premature wear and tear in confined areas and minimise fading from sunlight. This is also a great opportunity for decluttering and cleaning under all furniture.

Provide an underlay for all rugs

Yes, an underlay can make your rugs last longer. It is one of the least considered yet effective aspects of rug maintenance. Rug underlays have a variety of advantages, depending on the type of rug you have.

For instance, some underlays hold the rug in place and prevent it from slipping. This can reduce the chances of slips and falls. Other underlays can act as a cushion if the floor is hard or cold beneath the rug. Furthermore, they also shield the binding of the rug from damage and increase the insulation in a room.

Take care of spills immediately

Whether your area rug is made of natural fibres or synthetic materials, there is still a chance that a spill can damage it. The best way to prevent your area rug from discolouring is by taking care of spills the time they happen.

The longer you wait, the harder it may become to remove the spot. Make sure you don’t rub the rug when you wipe up a spill. This will only spread the potential stain and make things worse.

Invest in washable rugs

Some area rugs are perfect to be machine-washed, as long as you follow the rules or guidelines for water temperature and wash cycle. We recommend using a warm-water setting and a gentle cycle on your machine. Also, you should always shake or maybe vacuum prior to washing your rugs.

Final thoughts on residential rugs in Melbourne

There you have it – the essential tips to make your rugs last longer. You can choose an area rug that suits your style and interior the best. However, make sure you follow these tips to keep them looking beautiful for years to come. If you need more help regarding rugs in Melbourne, then feel free to get in touch with the flooring experts at Western Distributors today.