A good rug pulls a whole room together, but it also catches every crumb, paw print and muddy footstep that passes through. The good news is that keeping one fresh is easier than most people think. Here are five simple steps to clean your rug at home.
1. Vacuum both sides
Start by giving the top a slow, thorough vacuum, then flip the rug and do the back. Dust and grit sink to the base of the pile, and lifting the rug lets you shake the worst of it loose before it works its way back up.
2. Tackle stains quickly
The faster you act, the better. Blot — never rub — spills with a clean cloth and a little warm water mixed with mild washing-up liquid. Work from the outside of the stain inwards so you don't spread it.
3. Deodorise with bicarbonate of soda
Sprinkle a light, even layer of bicarbonate of soda over the rug, leave it for 15–20 minutes, then vacuum it up. It's a cheap, natural way to lift odours that build up over time.
4. Deep clean a few times a year
For a proper refresh, use a rug shampoo suited to your rug's material, or hire a steam cleaner. Always test a small hidden corner first, and make sure the rug is fully dry before you put it back down to avoid mildew.
5. Rotate it regularly
Turning your rug 180° every few months evens out wear and sun-fading, so one side doesn't end up looking tired before the other.
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