Area Carpets

Area carpets are a great way to add character to a space. We carry a wide variety of different fabrics, shapes, and sizes. Carpets of all styles can hold a long-lasting value if treated properly. We provide some area carpet care tips here for your reference.

Care Tips

  • Regular vacuuming, like a carpet, is the most important thing you can do for rugs is to vacuum. This removes grit and grime that can wear out your rug prematurely. If your rug has a fringe please be cautious and avoid vacuuming this area as it can damage the fibers. 

  • Rotate your rugs - foot traffic and sun can put extra stress on area rugs. Turn them once or twice a year to even out the wear. A rug that is used in a high traffic area will need to be rotated periodically to minimize and prevent wear. Rotation of the area rug from sunny areas to the other side of the room will equalize the effects from sun damage. We also recommend blinds or curtains to avoid sun damage.

  • Shaking your rug, if the rug is small enough, take it outside and shake it or beat it vigorously to remove dirt and grit.

 

Other Notes for Care

Pads - always place a pad under any area rug you purchase. Pads keep your rugs from slipping out of place while controlling curling, bunching and wrinkling. Pads will also greatly reduce wear and extend the life of your rug.

Moths – Natural fibers like wool are occasionally susceptible to moths. A rug that is in use is rarely in danger from moths. Frequent rotating and exposure to light and air, will create an undesirable environment for the moth to live. If your wool rug must be stored, then it should be inspected regularly. If moths are found in your rug we recommend taking it to a professional cleaner.

Moisture – Dampness in your rug will in time rot the threads and destroy the fabric. It is critical that spots and spills be dried and/or removed as soon as possible.

Damage – Accidents happen, you may be faced with a damage to your area rug such as a cut or burn. This should also be dealt with as soon as possible by a professional.

Cleaning Tips

The most common cleaning requirement to area rugs other than vacuuming is the removal of spots and spills. Acting quickly with the proper procedure, will help avoid permanent spots and stains on your rug. On stains, blot, and then brush. Always brush lightly from the outer edge toward the center of the stain to prevent spreading or causing a “ring” to develop. Repeat this process as often as necessary to remove the stain completely

 Steps for Spot Removal:

  • Immediately blot (do not rub) spills with white paper towels or with a clean absorbent cloth. 

  • If a cleaning agent is needed, pretest spot-removal in an inconspicuous area.

  • Apply the cleaner to an absorbent towel and begin to blot up the spill with a blotting motion. Flip cloth to prevent reapplying soil.

  • Do not over saturate with water.

  • Work inwards from the edge of the spot to prevent excess spreading.

  • Wait a few minutes for the cleaning agent to work on the spot. Follow recommended directions.

  • Once the cleaning agent has removed the spot, blot excessive moisture by applying pressure with paper towels or a dry absorbent cloth.

  • Rinse with clear water on a clean cloth.

  • Remove excess moisture by applying pressure with paper towels.

Storing your Area Carpet

If a rug is to be stored even if only for a few months, they should initially be cleaned thoroughly prior to storage. Use sheets or cloth to wrap it, do not use an airtight plastic bag as mildew can form. If you choose to use moth balls, never put the moth balls directly onto rugs. Wrap them first in paper towels and then place them in the middle of your rug. Moth balls are affective, but it is important to note that moth balls repel moths, not kill them. There are essential natural oils that can be used to repel moths opposed to using moth balls. Camphor, lavender, mint, thyme, and rosemary are all a natural way to protect wool from moths. These are great natural alternative to moth balls. We recommend researching what is best for your type of rug before storage. Ideally large carpets should be rolled around poles, which should rest on blocks. We advise to let carpets lie flat on top of one another if stored for an extended time. DO NOT store rugs in a humid, damp, warm or poorly ventilated room.