Rug Cleaning Companies

Rugs are no different than carpet when it comes to the amount of dirt, dander and allergens that they attract and trap, which means you should also be cleaning rugs regularly to keep your home fresh. The plus side is that unlike carpeting, area rugs can be removed and sent out for thorough cleaning if desired. Rug cleaning can also include repair work as needed, like complete re-weaving or foundation patching. Make sure the local rug cleaner you choose has experience with the types of rugs you need serviced, especially if they are hand-woven or Oriental. Read further to learn more about the process of rug washing.

How does professional rug cleaning work?

Each rug should be cleaned according to what type of fiber it’s made from, how the fibers are dyed and how it’s constructed or woven. When you use an area rug cleaning drop-off service, most places follow a process similar to the one outlined below:

1. Remove dust - An initial round of removing loose dust and debris will help the rug cleaner solutions applied in later steps be more efficient.


2. Test and Soak - The pro will test the fiber-specific rug cleaning solution in an inconspicuous spot to ensure it won’t cause damage or discoloration. Soaking helps with any tough stains.


3. Wash - This step is typically done by hand on each side and involves using a special rug washing brush to work the solution evenly into the fibers.


4. Flush - Loosened dirt and solution are flushed out via water, vacuum or steam cleaning.


5. Rinse - A final rinse is done, often with a light pressure washer, to ensure the rug is free of any remaining debris and washing agents.


6. Wring - As much remaining water and moisture as possible is wrung out by high-powered machines — don’t worry, this doesn’t harm the rug!


7. Dry - They are then left to completely dry in a temperature-controlled setting.


8. Protect - A protective coating can be added, if desired, to prolong the life of the piece.


9. Inspect - Area rug cleaners will thoroughly inspect the washed and dried product to ensure no damage was done in the process and it looks as good as or better than when it arrived.
   

For in-home rug cleaning services, most companies use the hot-water extraction method, commonly known as steam cleaning, like they do with carpeting. All you have to do is secure pets and put away anything valuable in the surrounding area and the professional rug cleaner near you will handle the rest.