If you already own an area rug or if you're interested in purchasing one, Philip over at Martha Stewart.com has some good advice on preserving your investment.
"Most rug problems can be avoided with a few preventative measures. Most important is to place the rug on top of the proper padding. The rule is: thin rug, thin pad; thick rug, thick pad. (A thick pad under a thin rug will increase the load the rug bears when stepped on.) The material from which a pad is made is as important as its thickness. Oriental rugs, which are made of natural fiber, need to breathe. Crosshatched pads made of rubber and reinforced wire give them air.
Rugs in constant use should be rotated every year, so they wear more evenly. A rug whose end is near a door can be turned around so that the other end gets the wear from heavy traffic. This will keep a path from being worn in the rug and evens out the section exposed to sunlight. Indentations left by furniture legs can be fluffed up with several firm strokes against the pile with a damp nylon nail brush.
Vacuuming rugs should be a weekly ritual—sand and grit wear down the woolen fibers. For durable rugs, use a vacuum with a rotary brush; but for delicate rugs, a suction attachment or carpet sweeper work best. Rugs should also be washed at least every two years. Do not send a fine Oriental rug to the cleaners: The heat and chemicals used can break down its fibers and dyes. Most rugs can be washed at home in the backyard, using a solution of Woolite or baby shampoo and ice-cold water. (Check first on a corner to see if the colors run. Also be sure the rug dries completely before laying it in the house again.) Experts generally discourage the use of aerosol carpet shampoos. “They just rearrange the dirt," says Costikyan.To deal with spills and pet stains, always keep a bottle of club soda on hand. Pour the club soda on the stain, and blot the area; the salt in club soda neutralizes the stain agent, while the water dilutes the stain. more
thanks,
Rugs A Bound
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