When Should a Rug be Cleaned Versus Replaced?
Rugs can accumulate dirt and dust and become discolored, damaged, or worn out.
A beautiful and colorful rug can elevate the visual appeal of any room and enhance the home décor. Decorative rugs can take center stage and transform dull floors into something luxurious and unique. Besides aesthetics, rugs also offer various functional benefits. They absorb sound, increase warmth and comfort, brighten a dark room, reduce trip and fall accidents, protect the floors, and can connect or divide a space.
However, rugs are not designed to last forever. They can accumulate dirt and dust and become discolored, damaged, or worn out. Therefore, taking good care of them will help extend their longevity and keep them looking new. Deep cleaning and maintenance by a professional cleaner help preserve the quality and brightness of the rugs.
When the rugs start to look dirty or damaged or seem like they have seen better days, various homeowners face the dilemma of whether to clean the rugs or consider a replacement. Here are some situations where homeowners should consider rug cleaning versus replacement:
Age
The average lifespan of a rug ranges from 5 to 10 years. A rug's longevity usually depends on the foot traffic and how well it is maintained. A rug nearing its lifespan, sees high foot traffic, and has yet to be regularly cleaned or maintained is unlikely to be restored through cleaning, and replacing it would be a better option. On the other hand, cleaning can bring back to life the rugs that see lower footfall and have been undergoing a proper cleaning and maintenance schedule.
Stains and smells
Stains and spots can make the rug look unsightly, and odors can create an unpleasant environment. In most cases, professional rug cleaning can eliminate superficial and tough stains from coffee, wine, and markers. It is also beneficial in getting rid of rug odors. However, replacement is better when rugs get stained with biohazard waste or have stubborn or permanent stains that won't go away even after professional cleaning. Similarly, rug replacement is more cost-effective if lingering smells persist even after deep cleaning.
Water damage
Rugs affected by flooding can be cleaned and restored to their original condition by professionals. However, replacement is the only choice when the home gets flooded with sewer or septic waste or from other unsanitary sources and gets soaked into the rug.
Mold and harmful allergens
Rugs are vulnerable to collecting dust, dirt, pet dander, and other harmful allergens, which can lead to various health issues and affect the overall well-being of the inhabitants. Regular cleaning is essential to maintain good indoor air quality and ensure good family health. But buying a new one becomes almost necessary if the rug harbors mold and mildew.
Wear and tear
How much wear and tear a rug has experienced plays a crucial role in determining whether it needs cleaning or replacement. Dull and dirty-looking rugs can look as good as new with professional cleaning. But if the rug has experienced a lot of wear and tear, discoloration, or large rips and tears in high-traffic areas, replacing the rug is a better choice. When replacing, choose materials that respond better to cleaning and are more durable and resistant.
Maintain the rugs
Regular professional cleaning can delay the need to replace the rug. Contact a local rug cleaning company to schedule rug cleaning at one's convenience.
3D Carpet Cleaning and Restoration offers home service cleaning and sanitation, air duct cleaning, and 24-hour flood service in Tampa & South Florida. Call (813) 833 - 4126 today!
