How to Clean Braided Rope Rugs
To keep area rugs and throw rugs clean, many people turn to beating or shaking out the rugs to remove dirt and dust buildup. However, braided rope rugs require more careful cleaning methods. Composed of woven and braided pieces of rope or fibrous materials like nylon and cotton, some of these rugs are handmade heirlooms, while others are more modern and made by machines. Regardless of the source, braided rugs need careful cleaning to look their best. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Broom or vacuum
- Protective gloves
- Brush or sponge
- Dry-cleaning solvent
- Towel or paper towel
Instructions
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Sweep or vacuum the braided rope rug at least twice per week, depending on its use. Vacuum or sweep both sides of the rug to remove all dust and dirt, which can wear into the surface.
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Ventilate your work area by opening the windows and/or doors and put on protective rubber gloves in preparation for working with a chemical cleaner.
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Dampen a soft-bristle brush or a sponge with dry-cleaning solvent, available at many hardware and home improvement stores. Gently blot the solvent onto stains or soiled areas of the rug.
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Wipe away the solvent and the dirt it loosens with a clean towel or paper towels. Continue to blot and wipe up until all the dirt and stains are gone. Clean the rug in this way at least once every two weeks or whenever you notice a stain.
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Lay the braided rope rug flat to dry in a well-ventilated area. Do not roll the rug or let it crimp up during cleaning or drying, as this can cause puckering or peeling away of the fibers.
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Tips & Warnings
You can try cleaning your rug with a mixture of equal parts ammonia and water, but the water may cause the colors on the rug to run.
Do not attempt to clean your rug if you are not confident in your ability to do so. Take the rug to a professional dry cleaner, especially if it's an heirloom, to ensure safe cleaning.
Do not beat or shake out your rug because you could loosen the fibers in the rope and cause holes.
Dry-cleaning solvent produces a strong and potentially harmful odor. Work only in a well-ventilated area.
References
- Photo Credit Thomas Northcut/Photodisc/Getty Images
