How to vacuum a rug

It sounds simple enough: bring out the beast and turn it on. In some cases, though, a once over with a vacuum doesn't quite get the rug as cleans as you want. There are ways to vacuum a rug that can clean it efficiently and in an organized manner so that you know your rug is clean.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

How to Vacuum a Rug

1. Remove all the objects from atop the rug to make it easier to clean.

2. Set the vacuum's power head low to the ground so it can pick up all the loose dirt.

3. Since many rugs have fringed edges that can get caught in the beaters of the power head, you need to avoid going near them. So, place the power head in the center of the rug and then turn it on. Vacuum back and forward on the nearest half of the rug. Then when you get near the edge, continue vacuuming right off the rug and onto the floor in one smooth motion (almost quickly) so that the fringe doesn't get caught.

4. Lift the power head back to the center of the rug and then do the same thing again, in the area right beside the spot you just completed.

5. Repeat this action until you have satisfactorily vacuumed the entire first half of the rug.

6. Turn around and face the other half and repeat steps 1 through 5 so that the second half of the rug is cleaned.

7. If possible, flip the rug over. You may need to get someone to help you if it’s a large rug.

8. Vacuum the underside of the rug using the same method as you just used to vacuum the top of it.

9. When you’re done, you’ll need to flip it back to its right side. However, if there is dirt on the floor or carpet where the rug will go, you might want to vacuum that area first before you place the clean rug on it.

Tips & Warnings

• If you want to add a fresh scent to your rug, you can spray it on the back when it’s flipped over. Then do the top when it’s flipped back. Be careful to only use sprays that are safe for your rug's materials (wools or synthetic fabrics).