How to Spot Clean a Rug

Area rugs protect tile floors, hardwood floors or any type of surface underneath and add a little color and style to your home. In the case of accidents and spills, it's best to spot clean the rug as soon as possible.

Cleaning

Sprinkle baking soda on fresh stains or wet stains and wait five to 10 minutes for the powder to absorb the stain. Vacuum the baking soda residue and then dab carbonated water on the stain. Blot the water from the rug with a dry cloth.

Considerations

If you spill water on the carpet, dry it immediately with a hair dryer on its lowest setting. For other clear liquids, add a small amount of water and feather the liquid out. Then, dry with a hair dryer.

Warning

Once a stain sets on the rug, consult a professional rug or carpet cleaner. You can do serious damage to the rug by trying to clean those stains yourself, including breaking the carpet fibers.

References

• World Floor Covering Association: Area Rug Care
• Apartment Therapy: How To Clean My Area Rug Inside My Small Apartment?