How to Clean an Area Rug the Right Way, According to Experts

Knowing how to clean an area rug will ensure these floor coverings retain their color, pattern, and beauty over time. Using the wrong products or ingredients that are too harsh can damage the fibers and cause them to degrade faster, as can letting dust and dander build up. To ensure you care for your area rugs the right way, we spoke to two experts who shared their tips for cleaning and removing stains from different types of rugs.

How Often to Clean an Area Rug

Vacuum your rug at least once a week to remove dust, dirt, and debris accumulated on the surface. Perform a deep clean about once or twice a year and spot treat as needed, says Alicia Sokolowski, president and co-CEO of AspenClean. These guidelines may change from home to home depending on factors like foot traffic, pets, children, and allergies.

Materials Needed

Make sure you have these materials on hand when cleaning your area rug.

• Vacuum
• Bucket
• Water
• Natural dish soap
• Baking soda
• Soft-bristled brush
• Microfiber clothes

How to Clean a Woven Area Rug

Woven or braided rugs are often made from cotton and should be cleaned with a mild dish soap and water, says Sokolowski.

1. Vacuum the rug thoroughly to remove any loose dirt and debris.
2. Fill a bucket with warm water and add a few drops of mild liquid dish soap. 
3. Use a soft-bristled brush dipped in the soapy water and gently scrub the rug in the direction of the weave. 
4. Focus on any stains or extra dirty areas but avoid excessive scrubbing to prevent damage to the fibers. 
5. Dampen the cloth with clean water and rinse the rug thoroughly. Alternatively, take your rug outdoors and rinse it with a hose. 
6. Allow the rug to air dry thoroughly in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.
   

How to Clean a Patterned Area Rug

When cleaning a patterned rug, it's important to use products that won't damage the fibers and patterns. This is what Marla Mock, president of Molly Maid, a Neighborly company recommends.

1. Vacuum the rug thoroughly to remove any loose dirt and debris.
2. Fill a bucket with cold water and add a few drops of mild liquid dish soap.
3. Use a soft-bristled brush dipped in the soapy water and gently blot the rug.
4. Rinse the rug so no soapy residue remains.
5. Allow the rug to air dry thoroughly in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.

How to Clean a Sisal Area Rug

Sisal rugs are made from natural plant fiber and should be treated with care when cleaning. Because of their composition, you should never get sisal rugs wet when cleaning them, says Mock.

1. Vacuum the rug to remove any loose dirt or debris. 
2. Sprinkle baking soda over the rug.
3. Using a soft brush, gently scrub the rug. 
4. Let the baking soda sit on the rug for a few hours.
5. Vacuum up the baking soda.

How to Clean a Fur Area Rug

It's best to spot treat a fur area rug to avoid damaging the fibers. When drying, avoid using heaters or the dryer, as these can damage the fur fibers, says Sokolowski.

1. Vacuum or shake the rug outside to remove any loose dirt or debris.
2. Use a soft-bristled brush to remove any remaining dirt or dust.
3. Fill a bucket with cold water and add a few drops of mild liquid dish soap.
4. Dip a cloth in the solution and gently blot any stains or noticeably dirty areas.
5. Rinse the cloth with clean water and blot the treated areas again to remove any soap residue.
6. Allow the area rug to air dry completely.

How to Remove Stains From an Area Rug

If your area rug still has stubborn stains after cleaning, remove them with a solution that is targeted to treat the source of the stain. Always test the solution on an inconspicuous area of your carpet to ensure it won't damage the fibers.

• Coffee or tea: Blot with a cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible, then rinse with cold water. Mix equal parts cold water and white vinegar and blot the stain, then rinse. 
• Oil stains: Sprinkle cornstarch over the stain to absorb the oil. Let it sit for about an hour, then gently work in a little dish soap with a brush and rinse, says Mock.
• Tomato sauce: Scrape off excess sauce using a spoon or dull knife. Mix 1 tablespoon white vinegar and 2 cups water. Dampen a clean cloth with the solution and gently blot the stained area. Rinse the area with water and blot dry with a towel, says Sokolowski.
• Soft drinks: Soak up liquid using a clean cloth. Mix two drops mild dish soap with 1 cup lukewarm water. Dampen a microfiber cloth with the solution and blot the stained area. Rinse with clean water and blot dry, says Sokolowski.
• Wax: Place a paper towel over the wax and gently press a warm iron to absorb the wax. Repeat as needed, says Mock.
• Paint: Scoop up excess paint using a spoon or dull knife. Mix two drops mild dish soap with 1 cup warm water. Dampen a clean cloth with the solution and gently blot the paint stain until it lifts. Rinse the area with clean water and blot dry with a towel, says Sokolowski.
• Pet accidents: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the stain and allow it to sit for about 10 minutes. Blot the area with a clean cloth to absorb the moisture and odor. Repeat this process until the stain and odor are eliminated. Rinse the area with clean water and blot dry.

How to Remove Odors From an Area Rug

Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the area rug to remove any lingering odors. "Let the baking soda sit for at least 15 to 30 minutes to absorb odors," says Sokolowski. "Vacuum the rug thoroughly afterwards to remove the baking soda."