Rugs can tie your room together and add beautiful decorative elements to your home, but these investments require proper rug care to maintain their beauty and longevity. While vacuuming helps with surface dirt, deep-seated debris, pet dander, and even bacteria can accumulate over time, affecting both the rug’s lifespan and your indoor air quality.
Here at Bon Ton Rug Cleansers, we’ve been in the rug care business for over a century. Our expert guidelines are tried, true, and tested to help extend your rug’s longevity. Whether you have a high-traffic hallway runner or a rarely-used guest room rug, professional cleaning can significantly extend the life of your investment.
Here’s how to tell when your rug needs cleaning – and what factors to think about.
Why Regular Rug Cleanings Matter
Many homeowners don’t realize how much dirt, grime, and oils accumulate in their rugs over time – even if they look clean. Fine particles of dust and debris will settle deep in rug fibers, gradually wearing them down. Regular, professional rug cleanings will help keep your home sanitary and best preserve the colors, texture, and structure of your rugs. Vacuuming alone cannot reach harmful particles – it all comes down to proper rug care.
How Often Should Your Rug Be Cleaned?
The frequency of rug cleaning depends on how much use your rug gets. For high-traffic areas like hallways, mudrooms, and kitchens, we recommend a cleaning every six months to two years. For moderate-traffic areas like living rooms, dining rooms, or bedrooms, consider professional cleanings every two to five years. For low-traffic areas like guest rooms, think about cleanings every five to six years; these rugs can still accumulate a shocking amount of dust.
Special Considerations with Rug Care
Certain environmental factors may lead you to clean the rugs in your home more often.
Pets in the Home
If you have pets, your rugs will oftentimes be exposed to far more dirt, pet hair, dander, and occasional accidents. Even well-trained and well-groomed pets are bound to track in dirt, oils, and odors. In homes with pets, we recommend professional cleanings every 12 to 18 months.
Allergies
If you or your family members suffer from allergies or asthma, more frequent rug cleanings can help relieve those symptoms and improve indoor air quality. Rugs act as filters, trapping allergens and airborne particles. Cleaning them every year can reduce allergens and help create a healthier living environment.
Antique or Delicate Rugs
Antique or hand-woven rugs require a special care regime. Due to the delicate nature of these rugs, we recommend having them cleaned by professionals experienced in handling delicate fibers. To ensure your rug remains in optimal condition, we recommend having it assessed every two to three years.
Signs Your Rug Needs Cleaning
Even if you regularly clean your rugs, certain signs indicate your rug may need a little extra attention. Here are a few signs to keep an eye out for:
- Dirt or stains: If your rug is showing signs of discoloration, dullness, or stubborn stains, it’s time for a proper cleaning.
- Odors: Musty scents or pet-related smells can mean dirt and bacteria are trapped in your rug’s fibers.
- Noticeable upticks in allergies: If you or your family members are sneezing more often, it might be time to clean your rug. Dust and allergens in your rug can lead to increased allergy symptoms.
- Texture changes: A stiff or rough rug can be a sign that grime is accumulating – which regular vacuuming cannot fix.
Rug Maintenance Between Cleanings
Professional cleanings are critical for your rugs, but routine care at home can help maintain your rug between cleanings – and help extend its life. Here are some of the best ways to maintain your rugs:
- Vacuuming: For high-traffic areas, vacuuming at least twice a week is important. For low-traffic rugs, once a week is fine.
- Rotations: Consider rotating your rug every six months to ensure even wear and tear (just like the tires on your car). Regular rotations also help prevent excessive fading in one area.
- Spills and Messes: Blot – don’t rub – your spills immediately with a clean cloth and mild detergent. This helps prevent stains from setting.
- Rug Pads: Quality rug pads may seem like a frivolous investment, but they can actually reduce friction and wear, adding years to your rug’s lifespan.
Trust Bon Ton Rug Cleansers
Since 1901, Bon Ton Rug Cleansers has provided expert rug cleaning and restoration services. We treat each rug with the same care and attention we would give our own.
Whether your rug needs routine maintenance or deep cleaning, our experienced team is here to help.
Not sure if it’s time for a cleaning? Contact us today for a professional assessment and let us help you keep your rugs looking their best for generations to come.
