It is very popular to layer area rugs these days. Many homes have wall to wall carpet and then have one or more area rugs on the carpet for accents. It adds a layer of interest and depth to the room. It does come with its own set of needs though.
Test Area Rugs
Before you put an area rug on your carpet check to see if it is colorfast. If that deep red area rug gets wet it may bleed the color onto the carpet below it. It is very difficult and usually impossible to remove the stain.
To test for color fastness take a white cloth and dampen it. Rub it against a dark color, red is a good choice. Did the cloth stay white or is it tinged pink or red? If even a small amount tinged your cloth, it is not safe to put the rug on your carpet. You don’t have to spill anything on it for it to run, just humidity may be enough for the rug to bleed onto the carpet.
Vacuum Area Rugs
The area rugs should be vacuumed regularly and so should the carpet under them. Most people think the carpet underneath does not need to be vacuumed since it has been covered with a rug. This is a mistake. Soiling travels down to the carpet below it. Also the carpet pile is being crushed over time.
Professionally Clean Area Rugs
It is a good idea to clean the rug and the carpet under it. Be sure the carpet is completely dry before putting the rug back on it. The best way to clean an area rug is have it taken to a shop for a thorough cleaning. You can have the company pick up the rug to take back to the shop and clean your carpet on the same day. That way when the rug is returned in a few weeks, both the rug and carpet are completely dry.
If you need your area rugs or carpets professionally cleaned please give us a call at Mighty Clean Carpet Care in Manassas. We are happy to help.