Imagine discovering a vintage rug in an estate sale. Although faded, its colors still speak of charm from the past. It’s true that time hasn’t always been kind to the woven beauty. The stains and dust are like uninvited friends who won’t leave. What are you going to do? You throw it away? No! This beauty needs to be revived! click here!
The first thing to do is give yourself a good shak. Doesn’t that sound simple? It’s amazing how much debris can be hidden in the fibers. You’re giving your rug a good wake-up after years of slumber. Once all the loose dirt and dust has been removed it’s now time to go deeper.
Water and rugs are in a love-hate relation. Moisture can be a disaster quicker than you can say, “mildew.” Think damp, not drenched when cleaning these delicate pieces. You can remove minor stains by gently blotting them with a moist cloth.
You can use vinegar to remove stubborn stains. In a sprayer, mix equal parts water and vinegar. Lightly mist on the area. Let the vinegar and water sit for a couple of minutes before wiping with a soft cloth. This little trick has prevented many heirlooms being banished to the attic.
Vacuuming is important, but not any vacuuming. Instead of using the powerful vacuum cleaner you use to clean carpets, try something a little less aggressive. Use an old fashioned broom or upholstery attachment to sweep surface dust away without damaging the threads.
The sun can be both your friend and enemy when you’re dealing with vintage rugs. Sunlight can naturally eliminate odors (thanks to UV rays!) Extended exposure to the sun can cause colors fade faster than ice-cream on a hot, humid day! Sunbathing is good for your rug, but remember to apply sunscreen or keep it short.
You can rotate your rug at least every few months, if the rug is always in one place and gets foot traffic all year long or direct sunlight. This helps to create even wear patterns over time instead of creating bald patches like a carpet with follicle problems!
When DIY cleaning isn’t enough, professional services are available. Perhaps there’s been too much grime built up over the years or maybe Grandma spilled that famous Thanksgiving gravy.
But remember, it’s not only about cleaning. It’s also about preserving history in each thread of the artwork created by hands that are long gone but still remembered and adorning homes today. This tangible connection is made between stories from past generations shared through us now via something so simple yet profound as a fabric underfoot.
Don’t be discouraged when life brings chaos to your favorite floor coverings. Instead, embrace the challenge and know that all efforts made towards maintaining them will pay off tenfold. Once vibrant colors return they will reflect both light & heritage combined harmoniously throughout every space where they live. This will remind everyone of why it is worth investing time & energy in caring for deeply treasured items no matter how small or seemingly unimportant the task initially appears.
Ultra Brite Carpet & Tile Cleaning North Shore
79-83 Longueville Road, Lane Cove NSW 2066
(02) 8015 5143