How to maintain your carpet?
Rugs are decorative and functional elements that bring warmth, style and comfort to our living and dining rooms. To ensure they maintain their shine and beauty over time, it is essential to maintain them with care. Regular cleaning and maintenance of your carpet is the key to preserving its original appearance and extending its lifespan. A well-maintained carpet can not only enhance the aesthetics of your interior, but it also helps maintain a clean and healthy environment.
In this article, we will give you the essential tips for cleaning and maintaining your carpet so that it maintains its beautiful appearance for years to come. Whether you're an interior design enthusiast or simply want to preserve your rug investment, these tips will help you keep your rug in tip-top shape.
Wool rugs
During the first months of use, quality carpets lose excess fiber and this disappears little by little with regular vacuuming. As a result, when you first use the rug, these strands may rise to the surface and form small clumps of wool. This shedding, also known as "shedding", is a normal occurrence and does not affect the quality or durability of your carpet. Simply vacuum your rug a little more frequently during the first weeks of use or remove small wool balls by hand.
For regular maintenance, the vacuum cleaner is your best ally for maintaining your carpet! Vacuum without using a brush to avoid damaging the wool fibers. Also avoid rotating brushes, as they can pull out the wool strands and felt them.
How to clean a wool rug?
If you have a stain on your wool rug, follow a few basic principles.
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Never rub the stain, as this may cause felting.
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Always dab the stained surface from the outside in. In the event of a liquid spill, act quickly by absorbing as much liquid as possible from your carpet using a clean cloth or paper towel. Remove solid or semi-liquid materials using the back of a knife blade or a spoon, starting from the edge and moving towards the center of the stain, while following the direction of the fibers.
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Then, gently dab the stain with warm, lightly soapy water (never pour the water directly onto the carpet). Repeat this step as many times as necessary, then finish by using a cloth dampened only with clean water to remove any soap residue. Dab dry with a clean, highly absorbent cloth until there are no more traces of moisture on the cloth.
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For stubborn stains, such as wax, tar or chewing gum, we recommend calling a pure wool carpet cleaning specialist and seeking advice on the use of alcohol-based stain removers .
It is important to note that cleaning wool carpets should only be carried out with natural products such as clear water, Marseille soap, possibly alcohol vinegar and Terre de Sommières in case of significant quantities of liquid to be eliminated. We also recommend professional dry cleaning every 12 to 18 months.
Synthetic fiber rugs
Synthetic fiber rugs are popular for their durability, versatility and ease of maintenance.
As with wool rugs, regular vacuuming is key to keeping your rug in good condition. Vacuum at least once a week for regular maintenance to remove dirt, dust and debris that accumulate on the surface of the rug. Be sure to use a soft brush or vacuum head set at an appropriate height to avoid damaging the fibers.
How to clean a synthetic fiber rug?
If there are stains or spills, act quickly. Use paper towels or a clean cloth to gently blot the stain, being careful not to rub, as this may force the stain deeper into the fibers. Next, use a mixture of warm water and mild soap to clean the stain by gently dabbing it. You can also use white vinegar or sparkling water to have maximum effect on the surface to be cleaned. Rinse with clean water and let air dry.
For a deeper clean, consider using a carpet steam cleaner or professional dry cleaning service which is recommended every 12 to 18 months. Use cleaning products specifically designed for synthetic fibers. Avoid bleach-based products, as they can discolor your carpet.
To avoid uneven wear, rotate your carpet every six months if possible. This will distribute wear evenly across the entire surface of the carpet.
By following these simple tips, you can extend the life of your synthetic fiber rug while maintaining its appearance and softness. Regular maintenance and stain prevention are the keys to enjoying your carpet for many years to come.
In-Depth Carpet Care FAQ
How to maintain your carpet so that it remains in good condition?
To maintain the beauty and durability of your carpet, regular maintenance is essential. Vacuum it frequently with a vacuum cleaner in the direction of the pile, without a brush or rotating brush to avoid damaging the fibers. Also avoid rubbing the stains, dab them gently from the outside to the inside.
How to remove stains from your carpet with soapy water?
To maintain a carpet with soapy water, mix lukewarm water with a mild soap, gently scrub the surface with a soft brush, then rinse thoroughly with clean water and allow to air dry. Avoid excess water to prevent mold.
How to maintain a wool rug?
Wool rugs may lose fibers initially, a normal phenomenon called "shedding." Vacuum them frequently during the first few weeks of use or remove small pills by hand. For stains, blot them with warm, soapy water, then blot dry with a clean cloth. For stubborn stains, seek advice from a cleaning specialist.
What products should I use to clean a wool rug?
Use only natural products such as clear water, Marseille soap, possibly spirit vinegar and Terre de Sommières to eliminate excess liquids. Professional dry cleaning every 12-18 months is recommended.
How to maintain a synthetic fiber carpet?
Vacuum your synthetic fiber rug regularly with a soft brush. If there are stains, gently dab them with warm water and mild soap, white vinegar or sparkling water. Avoid bleach-based products. Deep cleaning every 12 to 18 months by a professional is recommended.
Grandma's recipes for maintaining your carpet?
To maintain your carpet according to grandma's recipes, you can sprinkle baking soda on the carpet, let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum to refresh and eliminate odors. For stains, mix white vinegar and warm water, gently dab the stain, then rinse with clean water.