Canister vacuums without beater bars are the optimal type of vacuum to use on rugs. Brooms and manual sweepers are also a gentle and effective way to clean rugs.
Many of today’s upright vacuums are super high powered. The high suction can pull out the threads from the back of a rug and cause “sprouts.” Use the handheld attachment to vacuum your area rug, whenever possible.
If you choose not to (or are unable to use) the handheld attachment on your upright vacuum, make sure to turn off the vacuum’s beater bar, as it can pull fibers from the face of the rug and cause the rug to fuzz. If the beater bar cannot be turned off, set it on the highest position possible before vacuuming. Then, carefully place the vacuum on the rug.
If the rug has serged (finished) edges, refrain from continuously running the vacuum over the edges, as this will loosen fibers around the edges and cause them to deteriorate.
Avoid running the vacuum over the fringes at the ends of the rug, as fraying may occur. Use the handheld attachment to clean the fringes.
A rug is reversible, make sure to vacuum both sides. This will remove grit and grime that can prematurely wear out your rug.
How to Clean Your Rug
Clean spills immediately. Once a stain is set, it becomes much more difficult to clean.
Never rub a spill, as this forces the spill deeper into the rug. Instead, blot the stain with a clean white cloth.
For wool, use lukewarm water to remove any residual stain, as wool is more prone to bleeding and staining than synthetic fibers.
Always use clean water to remove any residual cleaner, and dry towels to absorb any remaining moisture.
