Care guide

Rug Pads

Importance and Selection

Rug pads play a crucial role in extending the life of your rugs. They provide a protective layer between your rug and the floor, reducing wear and tear caused by friction. This cushioning not only protects your rug but also adds a level of comfort underfoot. Our rug pads are suitable for all floor types, including hardwood and carpet, and are designed to prevent slipping and movement.

Maintenance and Safety

Regular maintenance of your rug pad is vital. Vacuum both the pad and the area underneath it to remove dust and debris. This not only keeps the pad clean but also ensures a healthy indoor environment. Replace your rug pads every few years or when they show signs of deterioration, such as crumbling or loss of grip. This will ensure ongoing protection for your rug and floor, as well as continued safety for your household, preventing slips and falls.

Vacuuming

Frequency and Technique

Vacuuming your rug regularly is essential to maintain its appearance and prolong its life. The frequency of vacuuming depends on the foot traffic and location of the rug. High-traffic areas may require vacuuming twice a week, while less frequented areas might need it only once weekly. When vacuuming, use a suction-only mode or a brushless setting to avoid damaging the rug fibers. For rugs with fringes, avoid vacuuming the fringes as they can easily get tangled in the vacuum and tear.

Natural Fiber Rugs

Different types of rugs require different vacuuming approaches. Our Natural Fiber rugs should be vacuumed with a low suction setting. Natural Fiber rugs can be delicate and a low suction setting can help prevent pulling fibers or damaging the weave. Do not use a beater bar, agitator, or rotating brush, as these can fray the fibers and cause unraveling. Vacuum in the direction of the rug's weave. This helps prevent fibers from getting snagged and helps remove all the dirt from the rug.

Indoor/ Outdoor Polypropylene Rugs

  • Indoor Use: Vacuum your polyethylene rug at least once a week, especially in high-traffic areas, to remove dust, dirt, and debris.
  • Outdoor Use: Outdoor rugs may accumulate more dirt and debris. Vacuum them every few days, especially during seasons with high pollen counts or after windy days.
  • Use a Brush Attachment: Polyethylene fibers are robust, allowing you to use a vacuum with a brush attachment. This helps to lift and remove dirt effectively.
  • Moderate Suction Power: While polyethylene rugs are sturdy, excessive suction can still cause damage. Use a moderate suction setting to avoid stressing the fibers.
  • Straight, Overlapping Strokes: Vacuum in straight, overlapping strokes to ensure you cover the entire area of the rug. This method helps in picking up as much debris as possible.
  • Both Sides of the Rug: For outdoor rugs, it's beneficial to vacuum both sides. This ensures removal of all dirt, which can be more substantial due to outdoor exposure.

Cleaning Spills

Natural Fiber Rugs

Natural Fiber rugs are incredibly robust. The weakness of Natural Fiber rugs is that they are susceptible to staining. Follow these steps to increase your chances of removing stains.

  1. Act Quickly: Blot the spill immediately with a clean, dry, absorbent cloth. Do not rub, as this can spread the stain and damage the fibers.
  2. Blotting Technique: Press firmly into the spill from the outside towards the center to prevent the stain from spreading.
  3. Mild Detergent Solution: If water alone doesn't remove the spill, use a mild detergent solution (mix a small amount of dish soap with water).
  4. Gentle Application: Apply the solution with a soft brush or cloth, gently working it into the spill.
  5. Rinse Thoroughly: After applying the solution, blot the area with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue.
  6. Air Dry: Allow the rug to air dry completely. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, as this can cause shrinking or fading. For particularly wet stains, we recommend using the cold air setting on a hair dryer to quickly remove the moisture.
  7. Avoid Excess Moisture: Natural fibers are sensitive to water; excessive moisture can lead to mold or mildew.

Indoor/ Outdoor Polypropylene Rugs

  1. Prompt Response: Quickly address the spill to prevent staining.
  2. Water Rinse: Most indoor/outdoor rugs can be rinsed with water. If the spill is substantial, take the rug outdoors and hose it down.
  3. Mild Soap for Tough Stains: For tougher stains, use a mild soap or detergent mixed with water. Apply gently with a soft brush.
  4. Rinse Soap Out: Thoroughly rinse the rug with water to remove soap residue.
  5. Blot Dry: After rinsing, blot the rug with a dry towel to remove excess water.
  6. Air Dry Both Sides: Hang the rug or lay it flat to air dry completely. Ensure both sides are dry to prevent mold or mildew.
  7. Regular Vacuuming: After the rug is dry, vacuum it to restore the pile and remove any remaining dirt.

Rotation

Rotating your rugs is an essential practice for preserving their longevity and appearance. It's recommended to rotate rugs every three to six months in high-traffic areas and every six to twelve months in less frequented spaces. This practice ensures even wear and prevents localized fading, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight. Additionally, rotating rugs in conjunction with regular cleaning helps maintain their overall quality and aesthetic appeal.

Sprouts

Rug sprouts are common, especially in natural fiber products. Loose fibers, or sprouts, can be removed using small scissors. Avoid pulling the sprouts, as this can damage the rug.

Professional Cleaning

Professional cleaning is a critical aspect of maintaining the health and beauty of your rugs. It's advisable to have rugs professionally cleaned every 12 to 18 months, especially for those in high-traffic areas or homes with pets and children. Professional cleaners use specialized techniques and solutions that deeply clean without damaging the rug fibers, effectively removing accumulated dirt, allergens, and stubborn stains. This deep cleaning not only revitalizes the rug's appearance but also extends its lifespan, ensuring your investment remains vibrant and functional for years to come. Remember, for delicate or antique rugs, always seek a cleaner experienced in handling such pieces to avoid potential damage.