Top 10 Tips for Maintaining Rugs

Some areas of your rug likely get more foot traffic or sunlight than others. To promote even wear and fading, rotate your rugs every 3–6 months.

• Rugs in high-traffic areas like entryways or hallways wear down more quickly. Rotating helps distribute pressure evenly.
• Sunlight fades dyes—rotating your rug ensures colors stay uniform over time.

Spills happen—especially in homes with kids or pets. Quick action makes all the difference in preventing stains.

• Blot with a clean, white cloth or paper towel. Don’t rub, as this pushes the stain deeper into the fibers.
• If needed, use cold water sparingly. Always test a small, hidden spot before applying any cleaner.
• Avoid harsh chemicals or carpet sprays not designed for natural fibers.

For tough stains, call a professional rug cleaner like The Rugsters to prevent long-term damage.

Rug pads do more than prevent slipping—they add a layer of protection between your rug and the floor.

• Reduces wear by cushioning foot traffic
• Improves air circulation, helping prevent mold or mildew
• Prevents rug curling and keeps corners flat
• Protects floors from color transfer or scratches

A quality rug pad can significantly extend your rug’s life.

Moisture is one of the biggest enemies of natural-fiber rugs. Whether it’s from spills, leaks, or humidity, too much moisture can lead to:
• Mold growth
• Fiber breakdown
• Unpleasant odors
• Color bleeding

Avoid placing rugs in damp areas like basements or bathrooms unless they’re made for those environments. If your rug gets wet, dry it flat in a well-ventilated area—never roll it up when damp.

Vacuuming isn’t always enough—especially for tightly woven or flat-weave rugs. Every few weeks, take smaller rugs outside and:
• Shake them vigorously to remove trapped dust
• Hang them over a railing or clothesline and gently beat them with a broomstick or rug beater

This old-fashioned method can help dislodge deep-seated debris that even vacuums miss.

Pets are part of the family, but they can be tough on rugs. From accidents to clawing and shedding, furry companions add wear and tear.

To minimize damage:
• Brush your pets regularly to control shedding
• Clean up pet accidents immediately (urine can cause permanent odor and fiber damage)
• Trim nails to prevent snags
• Use deterrent sprays or training to keep pets off delicate rugs

If your rug already smells or shows signs of damage, The Rugsters can help with deep cleaning and odor removal services.

Direct sunlight causes fading over time—especially in richly dyed, natural-fiber rugs. If your rug sits in a sun-soaked area:
• Close blinds during peak daylight hours
• Use UV-filtering window films
• Rotate the rug more often to distribute fading evenly
• Consider placing furniture strategically to block rays

Protecting your rug from sunlight preserves its color and visual impact.

Even with regular maintenance, rugs eventually need a deep, professional clean. Vacuuming only removes surface dirt—professional cleaning gets deep into the fibers to:
• Remove allergens, dust mites, and bacteria
• Restore color vibrancy
• Eliminate stubborn odors
• Flush out embedded dirt and debris

At The Rugsters, we recommend professional rug cleaning every 12 to 18 months, depending on traffic and rug type. Homes with pets, children, or allergy sufferers may benefit from more frequent cleaning.

We use wool-safe solutions, traditional hand-washing techniques, and state-of-the-art drying systems to ensure your rug is cleaned gently but thoroughly.

Small issues—like frayed edges, loose fibers, or curling corners—can escalate into major damage if ignored. Common repair needs include:
• Fiber damage from pets, moths, or traffic
• Shrinking or warping from improper cleaning
• Color bleeding from water or chemical spills
• Frayed edges or unraveling fringe

Catching problems early keeps repair costs low and helps preserve the rug’s original structure and beauty. At The Rugsters, we offer expert rug repair and restoration, from minor touch-ups to complete reweaving.