Cleaning rugs helps maintain the beauty and longevity of your home’s décor. However, without the right approach, it’s easy to make mistakes that can damage your rugs or reduce their lifespan.
From using harsh chemicals to neglecting proper drying techniques, these common missteps can be costly. Some of the most frequent rug cleaning mistakes include:
1. Cleaning Too Often
One of the most common mistakes is over-cleaning. While regular maintenance is essential, cleaning your rug too often, especially with cleaning agents, can wear down the fibres, cause colour fading, and make your rug more vulnerable to dirt and stains.
Instead, aim for a deep clean every 12 to 18 months or more frequently if you have kids or pets. In between, regular vacuuming and spot cleaning will help maintain its appearance without causing harm.
2. Skipping Care Instructions
Another mistake many people make is not following the care instructions specific to their rug type. Different materials require different cleaning methods. Some rugs may need to be hand-washed, dry-cleaned, or spot-cleaned, and ignoring these guidelines can cause them to shrink, lose colour, or even fall apart. Therefore, always check the label and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure your rug stays in top shape.
3. Leaving Stains Untreated
If you have children or pets, spills are inevitable. However, leaving stains untreated can drastically reduce the lifespan of your rug. This is because the longer a stain sits, the harder it is to remove as it seeps deeper into the fibres. Thus, as soon as a spill occurs, use a clean cloth to blot the area to absorb the liquid before it settles. This will help keep the stain from becoming a permanent part of your rug.
4. Using Too Much Water
Water is often considered the go-to cleaning solution, but using too much of it can be harmful. In fact, overwetting your rug can trap moisture beneath the surface, which may not dry properly and could result in mould growth. Additionally, excessive water can spread stains, making the problem worse. As such, always use a damp cloth or sponge, not a soaking wet one, to clean your carpet.
5. Over Using Shampoo
Shampooing your rug can be effective, but using too much shampoo or failing to rinse thoroughly can have disastrous effects. Over-shampooing may cause the fibres to unravel or tear; leaving the shampoo behind can lead to unpleasant, musty smells or even mould growth. Therefore, use a small amount of shampoo and ensure it’s thoroughly rinsed after cleaning. This will leave your rug clean and fresh without any lasting damage.
6. Over-scrubbing
Scrubbing vigorously is another common mistake that can harm your rug. While it may seem like an effective way to remove stains, over-scrubbing can break down the fibres and lead the rug to lose shape. Instead, gently brush or blot spills with paper towels to soak up dirt and stains. This method will protect the integrity of the fibres while still removing dirt and stains.
Keep Your Rugs in Top Shape
Maintaining your rugs is essential for preserving the beauty and comfort of your home. However, it is easy to make simple yet costly mistakes, such as over-cleaning, using the wrong products, or neglecting stains. By avoiding these common errors, you can keep your rugs looking fresh and lasting longer.
Moreover, if you’re unsure how to care for a particular rug, don’t hesitate to consult professional services for rug cleaning in Singapore. The cleaning experts can offer tailored advice and services to ensure your rugs receive the care they deserve.