When you add an area rug to your home, you add color and texture, as well as coziness. That's a good reason to take care of this common home enhancement, because all it takes is a few accidents or lapses in care for your cherished rug to become damaged. After all, carpet cleaners are just one part of good rug care. Here is what you need to know.

Beware of These Hazards to Your Area Rugs

1. Foot Traffic

This is especially damaging in high-traffic areas. The constant movement can wear down the fibers in your rug and lead to premature fading or fraying, especially if you have pets in the house who are tracking in mud and dirt. To minimize this kind of damage, switch up where people walk on the rug - even small changes can help spread out foot traffic more evenly.

2. Sun Damage

Frequent exposure to direct sunlight can cause colors to fade and fabrics to weaken over time; that's why most rugs are kept away from windows and exposed areas with lots of natural light. If you must place your rug in an area with lots of sun, consider using sheer curtains or blinds to filter out some of those damaging UV rays.

3. Spills and Stains

Spills can not only discolor your rug, they can be made worse if you try to clean them with the wrong methods. The most damaging culprits are acidic liquids like wine and juice, which can easily seep into the fibers and cause discoloration. 

The best way to remove a spill or stain is to immediately blot the area with a damp cloth and then use spot cleaning products specifically designed for rugs. Use only mild solutions that won't further damage the material.

4. Vacuuming Incorrectly

Incorrect techniques include using a too-high suction setting or running the vacuum back and forth over the same area multiple times; both of these can cause damage by pulling at the rug's fibers. Instead, vacuum slowly in both directions and keep the vacuum head at least two inches away from the fabric when cleaning. Hoovering too close can pull out the delicate fibers and cause damage.

5. Improper Carpet Cleaners

Never use household cleaners unless they are specifically made for rug cleaning. Most store-bought products contain harsh chemicals that can weaken and discolor fabrics, so it's best to stick with specialized cleaning solutions. 

For example, wool rugs require gentle detergents and careful hand washing, while synthetic area rugs can usually be machine-washed. Always check the manufacturer guidelines first.

When you need carpet cleaners that are second to none, reach out to Mumz Cleaning Service in Middletown, NJ. These detailed-oriented cleaning specialists use only the safest and most advanced cleaning products and equipment to provide great results for every job. Call (732) 670-4922 to discuss your needs, and visit them online to learn more about the services they offer.