5 Spring Cleaning Tips

Some say the idea of Spring cleaning traces back to the Persian New Year, which happened to fall on the first day of Spring. Many homes were heated by fireplaces or coal, and the house needed a thorough top to bottom cleaning after winter to get rid of the dust and soot. Iranians would clean the entire house to mark the beginning of a new year.

No matter where the practice originated, homes everywhere can use a good Spring cleaning. It’s a chance to set aside time to do those household cleaning chores that often are overlooked. Typical Spring cleaning jobs are windows, curtains, and upholstery, and a thorough whole-house dusting, and don’t forget to include area rug cleaning. Keeping fine area rugs clean will prolong their life and keep them looking their best. Here is a to-do list of 5 essential steps to cleaning your indoor area rugs and outdoor rugs this Spring.

1. Vacuum

Regular vacuuming is recommended to prevent the buildup of dirt in rug fibers. Rugs found in homes with pets and children will require more frequent vacuuming. In Spring, give all of your Oriental rugs and area rugs a thorough vacuuming, unlike the quick ones done the rest of the year. Watch our video on how to properly vacuum an oriental rug or area rug.

Rugs should be vacuumed on both sides. Avoid vacuuming the backing of hand-tuft rugs since this could cause damage. More delicate rugs such as shag should be vacuumed with the attachment and not the beater bar.

At least once a year, you should have a professional Oriental rug cleaning or professional rug washing done in a shop for a more thorough cleaning which will include dusting. Dusting is much more thorough than even the most thorough vacuum you can do at home. See our video on dusting an area rug.

2. Stains

Stains should always be handled as soon as possible, but life is busy. Sometimes a stain may be left too long. Use the annual spring cleaning to check for any stains. If found, gently blot at the stain with a professional spotting solution. Remember, before addressing any stain, check the spotter manufacturer’s directions. If you do not know the cause of the stain, it may be a good idea to have your rug professionally cleaned. Different types of stains require different types of stain treatment based on Ph levels. Using the wrong product on a stain could set it and make it permanent.

3. Air them out

When the first warm Spring day visits, we usually open the windows and air out the house. Rugs need fresh air too. Taking rugs outside to air out is a great way to freshen them up. Just take care not to place in direct sunlight.

If you have wool rugs, take care to check for signs of moths. Read our post "Recognizing the Warning Signs of Cloth Moths."

4. Rug Pad RX

For the most part, rug pads are extremely low maintenance. Unlike an accent rug, rug pads do not require weekly vacuuming. Spring cleaning is an excellent time to give rug pads a bit of TLC.

Take a few moments to shake a rug pad outside to get rid of any dust, dirt, or pet hair that has accumulated. Then, thoroughly vacuum both sides of the rug pad. Don’t forget to run a dust mop or the vacuum cleaner over the floor before returning the rug pad and accent rug to their spot.

If a pet has had an accident on the rug, it may have gotten through to the pad. It’s a good idea and an inexpensive investment to buy new area rug padding. Bal Arisi carries two types of premium area rug padding. Learn more

5. It’s a Wash

Not all rugs can be thrown into the washing machine, but a few, like cotton rugs, can. Make sure that cotton rugs are colorfast before washing them. To test colorfastness, wet a clean white cloth and place it on the rug in a colorful spot, and put a weight on top of it. Wait for 30 -60 minutes and check the towel for color transfer. If there is none, you are safe to wash the rug. Remember to air; dry cotton rugs shrink in the dryer. Polypropylene rugs can be easily washed using a garden hose and a mild dish detergent. Allow it to air dry as well, but don’t place a polypropylene rug in direct sunlight or run it through the dryer. Either will cause damage.

Always take the time to check the manufacturer’s directions before washing any rug. Most outdoor spaces like patios, decks, and porches get a sprucing up in early Spring. Use this time to freshen up outdoor rugs that are coming out of storage before placing them down for the spring and summer season.

Bal Arisi can take the hassle out of this part of Spring cleaning. We clean and provide winter storage for outdoor patio rugs and cushions. They come home to you in Spring, ready to use! Learn more.