(ThyBlackMan.com) Cleaning a rug at home involves a few essential steps, though the specific method depends on the material. Always check the care label for codes like W (water-safe) or S (solvent-only) before starting. If this seem too much for you then call a professional rug cleaning in NYC. You can choose between a steam cleaning and a deeper cleaning where they will pick the rug up and clean it in their factory.
General Deep-Cleaning Steps
For most water-safe rugs (like cotton or synthetic), follow these steps:
- Vacuum Thoroughly: Vacuum both the top and the underside to remove loose dirt, dust, and pet hair.
- Pre-Treat Stains: Use a mild detergent or a homemade solution to blot away visible spots. Never scrub, as it can damage fibers.
- Apply Cleaner: Use a rug shampoo or a mixture of mild dish soap and water. Test a small, hidden area first to check for color bleeding.
- Rinse: Use a sponge or garden hose to rinse away all soap residue. Leftover soap will actually attract more dirt later.
- Dry Completely: This is the most critical step. Squeeze out excess water and hang the rug or lay it flat in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade colors.
Cleaning by Rug Type
Different materials require specialized care to avoid permanent damage:
- Wool & Silk: These are delicate and highly absorbent. Use only wool-safe detergents and minimal water. For silk, professional cleaning is highly recommended as colors often bleed.
- Jute, Sisal, & Seagrass: Avoid water. Moisture can cause these natural fibers to shrink or develop mold. Instead, use a dry shampoo powder, work it in with a brush, and vacuum it up after 30 minutes.
- Shag Rugs: Their long fibers trap debris deep down. Take them outside to shake or beat them with a broom handle before vacuuming with a suction-only setting (avoid beater bars).
- Outdoor Rugs: These are usually made of durable polypropylene. You can scrub them with dish soap and water and simply hose them down.
Natural DIY Solutions
If you prefer not to use harsh chemicals, you can make effective cleaners with pantry staples:
- General Stain Remover: Mix 1 cup white vinegar, 2 cups warm water, and 1 tsp mild dish soap in a spray bottle.
- Deodorizer: Sprinkle baking soda over the rug, let it sit for several hours (or overnight), and vacuum.
- Tough Stains: Create a paste of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water, apply to the stain, let it dry, and vacuum.
If you decide to hire a professional and live in the New York City area, Fantastic Carpet Cleaning NYC is a highly recommended local option with several neighborhood-specific service locations.
Overview of Fantastic Carpet Cleaning NYC
The company provides a wide range of deep-cleaning services for residential and commercial spaces across Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens.
- Services Offered: They specialize in rug cleaning (including delicate Persian and Oriental rugs), carpet steam cleaning, upholstery and furniture cleaning, mattress sanitizing, and tile or grout cleaning.
- Methodology: They utilize advanced high-heat steam cleaning (reaching up to 200°F) to kill bacteria and remove deep-set stains using eco-friendly products. For delicate rugs, they use a full immersive cleaning process at their dedicated factory.
- Convenience: For area rugs, they offer pickup and drop-off services, which is ideal for busy New Yorkers.
Pricing & Specials
They are known for transparent pricing and frequent promotions:
- Carpet Special: Currently offering a limited-time deal for 3 rooms for $120 (up to 200 sq. ft. per room).
- Starting Rates: Rug cleaning typically starts at around $1.50 per square foot, with Persian/Oriental rugs starting at $2 per square foot.
- Mattress Cleaning: Rates range from $59 for a twin to $99 for a king.
How to Contact Them
- Phone: 646-661-1147 (Main Line) or 718-680-0563 (Manhattan/Brooklyn).
- Online Quote: You can request a free quote or book an appointment directly through their website.
- Hours: Monday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
Customer Feedback: They maintain a strong reputation (averaging 4.5 to 5 stars on platforms like Thumbtack and Angie’s List), with many customers praising their ability to restore heavily soiled rugs to “like-new” condition.
Staff Writer; Brian Shaw
