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Today we’ll look at the question: “Can you use a carpet cleaner on an area rug?” Using a carpet cleaner on a wall-to-wall carpet or synthetic rug can be a great way to keep it looking its best. Not only can it provide a deep and thorough cleaning, but it can also help remove tough stains and refresh the rug. However, if you are cleaning an area rug that is more delicate, such as wool, silk, or other natural materials, it’s usually best to take the rug in to be cleaned by a professional who can clean it safely while maintaining its quality and condition. 

Ask Yourself If You Have The Time To Clean Your Rug Before You Start

Believe it or not, rug cleaning takes a lot of time and effort, even with carpet cleaning machines. You could easily compare it to cleaning your attic in terms of time. Spot cleaning can take up a couple of hours, but deep cleaning can take the better part of a day. Some rugs require several washes before being fully clean, and drying the rug can take hours or a few days. 

So, if you want to do this on your own, you should first ask yourself if you have the time to do it, and even if you do, you need to wonder if you will be able to deliver the good results you are hoping to achieve. Making mistakes during the cleaning process could also lead to your rug’s damage and loss of color. If you are not ready to commit to the time this process needs, you can always get help from the experts and get back that day or two from doing your rug cleaning at home.

Consider Your Rug And Your Equipment

First, you must consider the type of area rug you have. Some rugs, such as those made from delicate materials like silk, will not withstand the powerful suction of a carpet cleaner. In these cases, it’s best to avoid using a carpet cleaner and instead opt for a gentler cleaning method such as spot cleaning, hand washing, or professional cleaning. 

Another factor to consider is the type of carpet cleaner you plan to use. Some carpet cleaners are designed specifically for area rugs and are gentle enough to avoid damaging the delicate fibers. It’s best to use a carpet cleaner specifically for area rugs rather than a cleaner for wall-to-wall carpeting.

Always Follow Directions

When using a carpet cleaner on your rug, follow the instructions carefully. This will ensure you get the best results and avoid damage to the rug. For example, you may need to pre-treat stains before using the carpet cleaner. Additionally, you may need to allow your rug to dry completely before using it again, which can take several hours. 

It’s also important to know how much water and cleaning solution you use. Overwetting the rug can cause damage, so using just enough water is essential to clean it thoroughly. Additionally, it’s important to avoid using too much cleaning solution, as this can leave a residue on the rug that can attract dirt and cause discoloration. If the rug becomes too wet, it can take days to dry, and mold may grow in the rug’s fibers. 

Take Care And Test First

In addition to following the instructions carefully, it’s important to be gentle when using a carpet cleaner. Start in the corner of the rug and see how it works – if it looks like the rug can handle it, you can continue. If the carpet cleaner is too harsh, try spot cleaning or take it in for a professional cleaning. 

Finally, it’s essential to be mindful of the type of stains you’re trying to remove. Some types of stains, such as those caused by pet urine, may require a specialized cleaning solution to be removed. If you’re unsure how to remove a particular type of stain, it’s best to consult a professional rug cleaner for guidance.

Trust Your Rug With The Professionals

So, can you use a carpet cleaner on an area rug? Sometimes, using a carpet cleaner on your wall-to-wall carpet can effectively keep it looking its best. However, carpet cleaning machines are usually too harsh for area rugs made of silk, wool, or other organic materials and should be taken to a professional cleaner. 

At Simonian, we have been cleaning rugs professionally for over 70 years. We help customers reduce maintenance costs with our subscription-based Balance Program and preserve the planet by using environmentally friendly products. 
Contact us if you have questions about our subscription tiers, rug cleaning, rug repair, or rug restoration, or get an estimate here – we’re happy to help!