Knowing how to clean area rug on hardwood floor is a skill that every homeowner should possess. Area rugs add aesthetic appeal to your home but can accumulate dirt and grime over time. Cleaning these rugs, especially when they’re placed on hardwood floors, requires special care to avoid damaging the floor’s finish. This step-by-step guide will show you how to handle this task with finesse, ensuring your area rug and hardwood floor stay in pristine condition.
Materials You’ll Need
Before you get started on cleaning your area rug on the hardwood floor, gather the following materials:
- Vacuum cleaner
- Rug shampoo or mild dish soap
- Soft-bristle brush
- Bucket
- Sponge
- Towels
- Fan or dehumidifier (optional)
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Step 1: Vacuum the Rug
The first step on how to clean area rug on hardwood floor is to vacuum it thoroughly. This will remove loose dirt, dust, and debris. Make sure you vacuum both sides of the rug, taking care not to scratch the hardwood floor in the process.
Step 2: Test the Rug for Colorfastness
Before applying any cleaning solution to the rug, it’s crucial to test the rug for colorfastness. This means checking if the rug’s colors bleed when they come into contact with the cleaning solution. Apply a small amount of the cleaning solution to a hidden part of the rug and dab with a white cloth. If any color transfers to the cloth, the rug is not colorfast and you’ll need to use a different cleaning solution.
Step 3: Prepare the Cleaning Solution
Mix a mild rug shampoo or dish soap with warm water in a bucket. Follow the instructions on the shampoo bottle to get the right proportion of soap to water. If you’re using dish soap, a good rule of thumb is to add 1 teaspoon of soap to 1 quart of water.
Step 4: Clean the Rug
Apply the cleaning solution to the rug using a soft-bristle brush or sponge. Scrub gently in the direction of the rug’s pile, which is the direction the fibers lean. Rinse the rug with clean water and blot dry with towels.
Step 5: Dry the Rug
Lay the rug flat to dry. Use a fan or dehumidifier to speed up the drying process and to ensure the rug dries thoroughly. Once the rug is dry, vacuum it again to fluff up the fibers.
Step 6: Protect Your Hardwood Floor
Before placing the rug back on the hardwood floor, ensure the floor is clean and dry. It’s also a good idea to use a rug pad or gripper to prevent the rug from slipping and scratching the floor.
This detailed guide on how to clean area rug on hardwood floor will help you keep your area rugs and hardwood floors looking their best. Remember, regular care and maintenance will extend the life of your rug and keep your hardwood floor in excellent condition.
