How to clean a braided rug using the simplest techniques?

Introduction

If you want to upgrade the aesthetics of your home with classics, braided rugs can be a great idea. These rugs have a rich history of being in demand for their style and charm, apart from being some of the most durable rug choices made globally. Moreover, braided rugs look perfect in both contemporary as well as traditional interior settings. Therefore, if you plan to give your home an added comfort along with a classic allure, check out the collection, and also learn how to clean a braided rug to keep them looking fresh all year round.

In this blog, let’s discuss the importance of rug cleaning and maintenance to prevent damage as well as dulling down of braided rugs. For that, you can follow some very simple cleaning techniques that will surely extend the lifespan of the rugs. However, you must remember to also connect with professionals for deep cleaning at the right time.

How to clean braided rug at home?

Braided rugs are prized possessions for any house because of their classic charm and durable texture. However, it is essential to learn how to clean a braided rug in order to preserve their beauty and longevity. Please note that you can use very simple cleaning techniques as they are quick and yet effective ways to maintain the charm of braided carpets without the need for any time-consuming and complicating steps. Read till the end of this section to know more about these methods.

Using the following list of cleaning methods, you will gain the confidence as well knowledge of dealing with debris, stains, and dirt easily. Not being too harsh is the right way to deal with premium carpets to ensure lesser damage to the texture. Let's look at how to clean a braided wool rug following simple steps.

Vacuuming

To successfully vacuum a braided rug, do the following:

Cleaning the area and fixing the equipment

Remove any little furniture or objects from the rug's surface before you start vacuuming so that you can work freely. Now, use a portable upholstery attachment or a vacuum with a rotating brush. You must avoid using a beater bar attachment since it can pull the fine braids and harm them.

Set the suction level

If your vacuum cleaner has a height adjustment feature, set it to the setting that matches the pile or thickness of your rug. By doing this, you can make sure the machine’s suction is just right for effective cleaning.

Gently vacuum

Slowly and gently vacuum the rug, starting at one end and moving across the entire area. To avoid pulling on it, vacuum slowly and in the direction of the braiding. Be careful so that the fringes and loose threads from the braiding do not get damaged by getting stuck to the cleaner. Flip the rug over gently after vacuuming one side of it, then vacuum the other side as well. This helps in clearing away any collected dirt or debris that may have become trapped underneath.

Be careful with the edges

Pay close attention to the rug's edges, which are prone to dirt accumulation. To completely clean these areas, use the vacuum's crevice tool or edge-cleaning attachment.

Choose the right rugs to vacuum

Vacuum braided rugs that are placed in high traffic areas at least once a week for the best results. Rugs in low-traffic areas may need to be vacuumed less frequently, but regular maintenance is still necessary to avoid dirt buildup.

You can maintain the fine look of your braided rug for years to come by including vacuuming in your cleaning routine. Keep in mind that vacuuming is only one part of caring for rugs properly; other methods for proper cleaning are mentioned in the following sections.

Spot clean

It is essential to learn how to clean a braided rug for it to remain beautiful and durable. Spills and stains should be dealt with right away to avoid them setting into the fibers and fading your rug's color and appearance. You can efficiently remove stains from your cherished braided rug by following a few easy steps.

Following are some instructions to help you learn how to clean a braided jute rug or any other variety at home:

Immediate attention

As soon as a there is a spillage or a stain, take swift action to stop it from soaking further into the rug. A stain gets tougher to get rid of the longer it remains on the rug.

Be gentle and don’t rub

Gently blot the spot with a white, clean cloth or paper towel. Avoid rubbing on the stain because doing so may spread it even more and harm the rug's fibers. Moreover, blotting gently helps in removing the stain without allowing it to absorb into the fabric any deeper.

Choose the right cleaner

When you choose a cleaner, consider the type of stain and the fabric of your braided rug. A solution of mild detergent and water should work well for the majority of water-based stains. However, you should use a cleaner with a solvent base for oil-based stains. To make sure a cleaner won't damage or discolor the rug, always test it on a small part of the rug first.

Apply the solution

Lightly soak the stained area of the carpet with the cleaning agent of your choice so that the stain gets lighter. However, avoid drowning the rug in water since too much moisture may cause mildew or water damage. After using the cleanser, use a clean cloth or paper towel to gently blot the soiled area one again. Keep repeating the process till you see the stain is gone.

Rinse and dry

After the stain has been eliminated, rinse the area with fresh water to get rid of any leftover cleaning agent. After wiping away any excess moisture with a dry towel, allow the area to thoroughly air dry.

Keep in mind that the type of stain, the fiber of the rug, and how quickly you react to the spillage all affect how well a spot cleaning will turn out.

Regular cleaning

Regular cleaning is essential to keep your braided rug looking fresh and free from accumulated dirt and debris. Unlike spot cleaning, which addresses specific stains, regular cleaning focuses on maintaining the overall cleanliness and appearance of the entire rug.

Here's how to perform regular cleaning for your braided rug:

Vacuuming

As mentioned earlier, regular vacuuming is a crucial aspect of regular cleaning. Use a vacuum cleaner with a rotating brush or a handheld upholstery attachment to gently clean the surface and crevices between the braids. Vacuum the rug at least once a week, and more frequently if the rug is in a high-traffic area.

Shaking or beating

If your braided rug is small enough, take it outdoors and give it a good shake or gentle beating. This helps to eradicate all the loose dirt and debris that may be trapped in the fibers.

Rotate the rug

Make sure to rotate the rug from time to time so that only one part is not exposed to traffic and damage. You must consider this as a mandatory point especially for rugs that are placed in high-traffic areas.

Ensure protection

Be cautious with liquids and food near the rug to avoid spills and stains. If you have pets, keep their nails trimmed to prevent snags and damage to the rug.

Professional Cleaning

Depending on the foot traffic and usage, consider getting your braided rug professionally cleaned every 12 to 18 months.

By following these regular cleaning practices, you can maintain the beauty and longevity of your braided rug. The combination of routine vacuuming, occasional shaking, and preventive measures ensures that your braided rug remains a delightful and grabs the attention of guests for years. Moreover, regular cleaning not only preserves the rug's aesthetic appeal but also contributes to a healthier indoor environment for you and your family.

Deep cleaning

Maintaining the beauty and durability of your braided rug requires deep cleaning too. It ensures that embedded dirt, stains, and allergens are completely removed from the rug's fibers, whereas routine vacuuming and spot cleaning serve to maintain the rug's surface clean from time to time. Your braided rug will look like brand new by deep cleaning every few months, depending on foot traffic and use.

Here is how deep cleaning of rugs should be done whether by professionals or at home:

Make the rug ready

Take the braided rug outside before performing a full cleaning and shake it vigorously or gently to remove any loose dirt and debris.

Choose a washing Technique

A braided rug can be thoroughly cleaned utilizing a variety of techniques, such as steam washing, foam cleaning, or the use of a carpet cleaning equipment. Pick a technique that works with the fibers and architecture of your rug. Note that you must always adhere to the care guidelines provided by the manufacturer, if any.

Prior testing is mandatory

Before deep cleaning the entire rug, test the cleaning procedure in a tiny, discrete area to make sure it doesn't fade the fabric or harm it in any other way.

Steam Cleaning

When using a steam cleaner, put water and a light detergent made for rugs into the machine. Apply the steam cleaner slowly to the surface of the rug while operating it in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. After a thorough steam washing, let the rug air dry completely.

Foam cleaning

Foam cleaning is applying a shampoo or cleaning foam made specifically for rugs and gently stirring it into the rug with a soft brush or sponge. After letting the foam sit for the required amount of time, properly rinse it with clean water, and then pat it dry with a towel.

Cleaning and drying

Use a cleaning solution suitable for braided rugs when using a carpet cleaning machine, and adhere to the machine's operating instructions. In a back-and-forth motion, slowly move the machine over the rug, being sure to extract as much water as you can. After a thorough cleaning, make sure the rug is thoroughly dried. To avoid color fading or distortion, lay it flat away from direct sunlight, outdoors or in a well-ventilated location.

Deep cleaning your braided rug on a regular basis will not only get rid of stains and filth that have been there for a while, but will also improve the texture and appearance. Your braided rug will be revitalized by this comprehensive cleaning process, enabling it to keep adorning your house with its enduring charm and comfortable appeal.

FAQs

Can you wash a braided rug in washing machine?

No, it is not a wise option to wash braided rug in a washing machine. Instead, it is best to hand wash it.

How to hand wash a small braided rug?

To hand wash a small braided rug, gently scrub with a mild detergent and rinse thoroughly with water.

How often should I vacuum a braided rug?

Vacuum a braided rug at least once a week, or more often for high-traffic areas. However, for low-traffic area, the frequency may be lower.

Can you steam clean a braided rug?

Yes, you can steam clean a braided rug using a steam cleaner and appropriate detergent. Follow manufacturer guidelines.