How to Vacuum an Area Rug – (Tips & Guide)

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Know How to Vacuum an Area Rug: Maintaining the cleanliness and longevity of your area rug is essential to preserve its beauty and value over time. Vacuuming is one of the most crucial aspects of rug care, but it’s essential to do it correctly to avoid damage.

Area rugs are a common and attractive addition to many homes, offering both comfort and style. However, to maintain their beauty and cleanliness, regular vacuuming is essential.

Consider Pile Height

Before you start vacuuming your rug, it’s vital to take its pile height into consideration. The pile height refers to the depth of the rug’s fibers, which can be deep, medium, low, or even flat. To identify the pile height, press your finger into the fabric. If your finger sinks deep into the rug, it has a high pile. Conversely, if there is no sinking, it has a flat or low pile.

Why is this important? Well, rugs with a flat or no pile should not be vacuumed with machines that have rotary brushes. Instead, use an upholstery tool for gentle cleaning. For rugs with pile, you must adjust the vacuum’s brush to barely touch the rug’s surface, preventing excessive wear on the fibers.

Opt for Low Suction

In addition to adjusting the brush, make sure to use a vacuum cleaner with low suction power. Avoid using aggressive vacuum cleaners with high suction, as they can damage the delicate fibers of the rug. Adjust the suction settings on your vacuum, if possible, or consider investing in a vacuum with adjustable suction to cater to your rug’s needs.

How To Vacuum An Area Rug – Step By Step Guide

How To Vacuum An Area Rug

Today, we will provide you with a quick demonstration of how to vacuum your area rug. Discover the unique technique they use, and learn how you can apply it to keep your rug in great condition.

Vacuuming Technique 1

Now that you’ve prepared your vacuum cleaner, it’s time to start vacuuming your rug. While many people vacuum their rugs in the direction of the pile, this is not the most effective method. Instead, follow this technique for optimal results:

  1. Vacuum Horizontally: Begin by vacuuming from side to side in a horizontal motion across the wefts (the horizontal yarns that go over and under the warps, the vertical yarns) of the rug. This ensures that the rug’s fibers remain upright and are not flattened in any direction.
  2. Avoid Edges: Be careful not to vacuum over the rug’s edges, especially if it has fringe, a surged edge, or a bound tape edge. Vacuuming over these areas can cause damage to the rug or the vacuum cleaner itself.
  3. Flip and Repeat: Once you’ve completed vacuuming the front side, flip the rug over and repeat the horizontal vacuuming technique on the backside. Again, avoid vacuuming over the fringe or any edges.

Vacuuming Technique 2 – The North-to-South Vacuuming Technique

You can follow a developed a special technique for vacuuming area rugs, which called “north-to-south.” This method not only ensures a thorough cleaning but also helps in maintaining the rug’s condition.

  • Step 1: Prepare the Rug: Before you start vacuuming, remove any small objects or debris from the surface of the rug. This prevents clogging the vacuum cleaner and ensures an effective clean.
  • Step 2: Vacuum North-to-South: Begin by vacuuming the rug from north to south, using steady and overlapping strokes. This method allows the vacuum to lift dirt and dust effectively from the fibers, ensuring a more thorough clean compared to traditional vacuuming.
  • Step 3: Vacuum the Back of the Rug: The unique approach involves flipping the rug over and vacuuming the back. This step might sound unusual, but it works wonders in removing embedded dirt and debris that regular vacuuming might miss. You can use a brush attachment or a low-suction setting to prevent tangling in the pile.
  • Step 4: Vacuum South-to-North: After vacuuming the back of the rug, flip it back to its original position. Now, vacuum the rug from south to north. This two-way vacuuming approach helps ensure that every nook and cranny of the rug is thoroughly cleaned.
  • Step 5: Check for Remaining Dirt: Inspect the rug after vacuuming to check for any remaining dirt or debris. Spot clean any stains if necessary, using appropriate cleaning solutions and methods suitable for your rug’s material.

Additional Tips for Rug Maintenance

Apart from the unique north-to-south vacuuming technique, we recommend these tips to keep your area rug in pristine condition:

  1. Regular Vacuuming: Vacuum your rug at least once a week to prevent the buildup of dust and dirt. High-traffic areas may require more frequent cleaning.
  2. Rotate the Rug: To ensure even wear and tear, rotate your rug every six months if it’s in a frequently used area.
  3. Spot Cleaning: Tackle spills and stains immediately to prevent them from setting into the fibers. Blot the stain gently with a clean cloth and use appropriate cleaning products for your rug’s material.
  4. Professional Cleaning: Consider having your area rug professionally cleaned every 12 to 18 months, especially if it experiences heavy foot traffic.

Conclusion

Properly vacuuming your area rug, be it an Oriental or any other type, is essential for its care and longevity. Remember to adjust the vacuum’s brush according to the rug’s pile height and use a vacuum with low suction power to protect the delicate fibers. When vacuuming, always go from side to side to keep the fibers upright, and avoid vacuuming over the rug’s edges or fringe.