Rug Care Tips for Autumn and Winter: Protecting Your Investment

Oct 31, 2023

Winter is almost upon us. The best way to make your home cosy is to grace the floor with rugs. Nothing adds comfort and warmth like a handwoven area rug. 

You have probably noticed that the few you have in your house look a little worn out. So, when was the last time you gave your rugs a little TLC? Protecting rugs in cold weather can be challenging because of all the wet dirt you track in. You might not pay much attention to what gets stuck under your shoes, but the rugs surely do!

There’s already a slight chill in the air, and the weather demands that you look into autumn rug care and follow up with winter rug maintenance.

Rug Care Tips

  • Have a weekly date with your vacuum cleaner. It's the most effective way to keep your rugs free from those pesky leaf particles that seem to appear during fall.
  • Every so often, give your rugs a good shake to dislodge deep-seated dirt. 
  • Do not beat your rugs with a stick, as this might loosen the threads and distort their appearance.
  • Autumn is the best time to wash your rugs because, in summer, your house accumulates lots of airborne pollutants. Since most people prefer staying in the house in winter, they expose themselves to allergens.

Outdoor Rug Maintenance

Rugs on your patio and deck are fully exposed to the moisture in the air. No matter what material they are made of, the rugs will last longer if you bring them indoors to warm up. However, if you decide to keep them outdoors, elevate them slightly off the ground so they are not in contact with the frozen surface. 

Invest in rug pads to create a barrier between the ground and the rug. This will prevent moisture buildup and promote air circulation. Moreover, it will prevent the rug from slipping, which is a huge concern in winter.

Indoor Rug Maintenance

The first thing you need to do is place a doormat outside and inside the front door. Wipe your shows every time on both mats when you enter the house. This will prevent dirt from tracking into the house.

Dry indoor air during winter can cause your rugs to lose moisture, leading to cracks and damage. You might feel the pile getting a little tough under your feet. A humidifier can help maintain an optimal indoor humidity level, keeping your rugs in good condition.

Regular vacuuming is essential to prevent dirt from becoming embedded in your rugs. Set a vacuuming schedule, focusing on high-traffic areas, and don't forget to use the appropriate attachment for different types of rugs.

If you have seasonal rugs, packing them properly during the off-season is essential. Clean and vacuum the rugs before storing them in a cool, dry place. Ensure they are completely dry to prevent mold growth. Instead of folding, roll them up to avoid wrinkles and creases.

For example, wool rugs are dirt and water-repellent. They are a good choice for creating a comfortable atmosphere. On the other hand, natural fibre rugs show water marks and are hard to clean. This is why they should be packed in winter.  

In conclusion, the best way to ensure your rugs’ safety in winter is to vacuum them regularly and ensure they are dry.

The Rugs understands the transformative quality of rugs. We have a large collection of rugs in different designs, textures, and materials. For more information, get in touch with them through Live Chat.

Related Posts

Blogs

Interior Design Guides

Rug Care for Natural Fibre Rugs: Sisal, Seagrass, and Jute

Related Rug Collections

Doormats

Wool Rugs


Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.