How to Clean Carpets and Rugs By Yourself At Home

A good-quality and well-designed carpet or rug can greatly elevate the overall vibe of a space. However, keeping them clean is essential to preserve their longevity and beauty. While professional cleaning is an option, knowing how to clean your carpets at home is a game changer that can help you save money and keep them looking fresh year-round. Read on to find out more!

Benefits of Cleaning Rugs and Carpets by Yourself

Cleaning a carpet or rug at home can offer several advantages, including:

1. Cost Saving: You can avoid expensive professional cleaning services by doing it yourself at home.
2. Prolonged Lifespan: Regular maintenance prevents dirt buildup, keeping the fibers in good condition.
3. Healthier Living Space: By cleaning your carpet regularly, you can keep your living space free of dust, allergens, and bacteria, improving indoor air quality.
4. Convenient: Knowing some good DIY cleaning techniques allows you to clean your carpet anytime without waiting for a professional appointment.
5. Immediate Stain Removal: You can clean spills and stains right away, without having to wait for professional cleaners, to avoid permanent damage. 

How Often Should You Clean Rugs & Carpets?

Regular cleaning is key to maintaining the appearance and longevity of your rugs and carpets. So, how often should you clean them? Here's a general guide:

1. Vacuuming: Vacuum your carpet at least once a week to remove any dust, dirt, and allergens. If it's placed in common areas like the living room, try to vacuum it at least 2-3 times a week.
2. Spot Cleaning: If you notice spills and stains, remove them immediately to prevent permanent damage. Use a clean cloth slightly dampened with water or a mild soap solution. Gently blot the stained area—avoid scrubbing too hard to prevent fabric damage.
3. Deep Cleaning: We recommend deep cleaning your carpet using a carpet cleaner or shampoo once every 6-12 months for a thorough refresh.  If your carpet is placed in entryways, hallways, and living rooms, deep clean them every 3-6 months.
4. Shaking or Beating: If you have small rugs, you can take them outside and shake them out every few weeks to remove embedded dirt.
5. Home with Pets or Allergies: If you have pets or allergy sufferers at home, vacuum your carpet daily and deep clean every 3-6 months to reduce pet hair, dander, and allergens that can trigger reactions. Daily vacuuming helps minimize buildup, keeping the air cleaner and fresher. Deep cleaning every 3-6 months removes deeply embedded dirt, bacteria, and odors, ensuring a healthier living environment for both pets and allergy sufferers.

Basic Tools and Supplies for Cleaning Rugs & Carpets

General Tools You'll Need

Cleaning a carpet at home doesn't have to be complicated if you have the right tools and supplies. Here's a list of essential items you'll need to keep to clean your rugs or carpet thoroughly:

1. Vacuum Cleaner: Having a good vacuum cleaner is great for regular carpet maintenance. Be sure to look for one with adjustable suction and attachments for different surfaces. A vacuum with a HEPA filter is ideal for allergy sufferers, as it traps fine dust, pollen, and pet dander, preventing them from recirculating into the air.
2. Carpet Brush or Broom: A stiff-bristled carpet brush or broom can be used to remove dirt and debris from deep within the carpet fibers before vacuuming. 
3. Microfiber Cloths or Towels: These are highly useful for spot cleaning and drying rugs without leaving lint or residue behind.
4. Mild Detergent or Carpet Shampoo: To remove stains or odors, use a gentle, non-toxic cleaner specifically designed for rugs and carpets.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning Supplies

Switching to eco-friendly carpet cleaning supplies is not only better for the environment, but it can also be safer for your delicate rugs and carpets. This is because eco-friendly products usually do not use harsh chemicals that can damage fibers, fade colors, or leave behind toxic residues. Here are several eco-friendly cleaning supplies you can use:

1. Plant-Based Carpet Cleaners: Look for cleaners that are made from natural ingredients, such as coconut or citrus extracts. Don't forget to check if the ingredients are safe to use for your carpet or rug, as some natural ingredients can potentially damage delicate fibers.
2. White Vinegar: The white vinegar is a versatile, non-toxic cleaner that removes stains and neutralizes odors. However, avoid using it on natural fiber carpets like wool or silk, as its acidity can weaken the fibers.
3. Baking Soda: A great choice if you want to remove odors and lift stains from your carpet without using harsh chemicals.
4. Castile Soap: A gentle, biodegradable soap that can be used to spot-clean rugs. However, it must be rinsed thoroughly, as any residue left behind can attract dirt and lead to buildup.
5. Essential Oils: Essential oils like tea tree, lavender, or eucalyptus can naturally disinfect and freshen up carpets, but they should always be diluted with water before use to prevent staining or overpowering scents.

What Not to Use on Rugs and Carpets

Aside from having the right tools and equipment, you should also pay attention to the ingredients you're using to clean your carpets or rugs. Some ingredients can be too harsh and may even ruin the fabric. In general, you should avoid these:

1. Bleach: Bleach is strong and corrosive. It can weaken fibers and cause permanent discoloration.
2. Ammonia-Based Cleansers: Cleansers that are ammonia-based are harsh on natural fibers like wool and, if you have pets, can worsen pet odors instead of neutralizing them.
3. Laundry Detergent or Dish Soap: They can leave a sticky residue that attracts dirt, making your carpet look dirtier over time.
4. Excess Water or Steam: Over-saturation can lead to mold growth and damage delicate fibers like silk.
5. Hard-Bristle Brushes: Can fray fibers, causing fuzziness and premature wear.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Rugs and Carpets

1. Vacuum Regularly

Regular vacuuming is the easiest way to ensure your carpet stays clean and free from dirt, dust, and allergens. Remember to vacuum rugs in high-traffic areas at least twice a week.

Different carpet types also require different handling. For example:

• Loop Pile Carpets: For loop pile carpets, use a suction-only vacuum or one with an adjustable brush to preserve the fiber.
• Cut Pile Carpets: A beater bar or brush roll attachment can help lift dirt from deeper within the fibers.
• Delicate Rugs: Use a handheld vacuum or low-power setting to avoid pulling on the fibers.

2. Spot Cleaning Spills Immediately

Spills should be cleaned right away to prevent permanent stains. This is how to do it:

• Blot, Don't Rub: Use a clean microfiber cloth or paper towel to absorb as much liquid as possible. Avoid rubbing, as it can spread the stain and push it deeper into the fibers.
• Use Mild Cleaners: A simple mixture of white vinegar and water (1:1 ratio) can remove most stains. However, for tougher stains like wine or coffee, you can sprinkle some baking soda before applying vinegar and let it fizz before bloating.
• Rinse and Dry: Dab the area with a damp cloth to remove any residue and let it air dry completely.

3. Deep Clean Every 6-12 Months

If you want thorough maintenance, deep clean your rug or carpet once every 6-12 months, depending on foot traffic. Here's a quick guide on how to deep clean carpets:

• Prepare a Cleaning Solution: Create a cleaning solution by mixing a small amount of mild detergent with warm water. Make sure that it's free from harsh chemicals that can damage the carpet fibres.
• Gently Scrub: Use a soft brush or microfiber cloth to work the solution into the carpet. Focus on stained or soiled areas.
• Rinse and Dry: Wipe with a damp cloth to remove soap residue. Let the rug air dry completely by using fans or by placing them in a well-ventilated area. Never place a damp rug back on the floor, as moisture can lead to mold growth.

How to Clean Designer and Artist Rugs

If you own designer and artist rugs from our collection, you'll know that they're more than just floor coverings. They're also works of art that can add extra charm to your living space!

BAUBAU Fossil Psychic Recycled Artist Rug by Kerstin Brätsch - Fossil variant

These high-end, unique rugs require special care if you want to preserve their intricate design, premium materials, and colors. To help you get started, here's how you can clean our designer or artist rugs without damaging them:

1. Regular Maintenance & Dust Removal

For regular maintenance, use a vacuum with a gentle setting (or a handheld vacuum) to remove dust and dirt. Avoid beater bars or rotary brushes, as they can wear down the weaves and patterns. For handwoven or wool rugs, shake them out gently outside to remove debris.

2. Spot Cleaning Without Damage

If you spill food or liquid on the carpet, blot the spill immediately with a clean, dry cloth to prevent the stain from setting. Use cold water and mild detergent for most stains, as hot water can cause certain stains, like blood or dairy, to settle deeper. However, warm water can be effective for greasy or oily stains, as it helps break down oils more easily. Avoid using bleach, ammonia, or harsh chemicals, as they can fade dyes and damage carpet fibers.

For delicate prints or hand-painted rugs, try testing any cleaning solution on a small, hidden area first to ensure the colors don't bleed.

Remember, always blot, never rub, to avoid spreading the stain or damaging the artwork.

3. Deep Cleaning with Extra Care

Handwash your carpet or rug using a pH-neutral wool or silk-safe cleaner, depending on the rug's material. Lightly dab and avoid soaking the rug, as excess water can weaken the fibers and distort the design. Then, rinse gently with a damp cloth and allow the rug to air dry completely before placing it back on the floor.

When drying, avoid direct sunlight to prevent the patterns or colors from fading.

4. Professional Cleaning for Long-Term Care

For silk, handwoven, or delicate designer rugs, professional cleaning is recommended every 12-18 months. Look for rug specialists who understand the materials and artistic value of the piece to ensure proper treatment.

Find the Best Carpets and Rugs for Your Living Space at ZigZagZurich!

By following this comprehensive guide on how to clean rugs, you can keep your carpet and designer pieces looking fresh, clean, and well-maintained for years. Regular care, gentle cleaning methods, and professional maintenance when needed will help preserve the beauty of your rugs.

If you are looking for the right carpet or rug that can add beauty to your interior, ZigZagZurich offers a selection of high-quality carpets crafted with exceptional material and designed by artists from all over the globe. Our collection features unique, contemporary designs, rich textures, and a diverse range of colors, so you can easily find one that suits your interior design preference.

Explore the best carpet collection at ZigZagZurich now!