Clean Area Rugs Help You Make the Most of a Small Living Space

Are you hoping to unlock the potential of a compact living area? It’s easy to liven up small spaces and give the illusion of more square footage with a carefully chosen area rug. These versatile furnishings can bring an infusion of color and a splash of style to any room. Area rugs also add a sense of overall warmth and comfort. Plus, they act as an air filter by trapping dust and dander, preventing these particles from drifting into the air you breathe. As long as you clean area rugs regularly, they represent a smart and often beautiful addition to a small living space.

How to Choose the Right Area Rug for the Room

When it comes to selecting an area rug, you have a virtually endless range of options. The first variables to consider are the size and shape of the rug you want. Are you looking for something that will cover the floor from corner to corner or something that simply adds a focal point in the middle of the room? 

Do you want the shape to mirror the dimensions of the space or provide a stark contrast like what happens when you add a circular rug? Narrowing down these two specifications can help you narrow the vast options to a more manageable selection of rugs.

Next, you should consider your preferences when it comes to texture. Many area rugs are plush and thick, which feels great on bare feet. However, it can be harder to clean these area rugs because dirt and dust can become compacted deep within the fabric. Other options include flatweave or low pile rugs, which are thinner and more lightweight than their thick counterparts. Because they are easier to clean, they are often chosen for more high-traffic areas.

Finally, think about what color or pattern you want for your rug. Many homeowners choose to place rugs with a single bold color in the center of a small space, while others opt for bright, eye-catching patterns that reflect other decor elements within the room. Keep in mind that lighter colors will help expand the sense of space in a small room, but they will also show dirt and stains more easily than busy patterns or darker hues.

How to Clean Area Rugs in Small Spaces

If you place an area rug in a small space, it will likely experience a significant amount of traffic. As a result, it is important to have a plan in place for how you are going to keep it clean. 

The first step in this process is to vacuum on a consistent basis, at least once or twice a week. It’s also important to take the time to work methodically and move in the direction of the pile or weave. Don’t forget to clean the edges, where dust is sure to accumulate, using a handheld attachment or crevice tool. 

The second step is to address stains and spills quickly. Because the eye simply has fewer places to go in a small room, spots on your area rug are bound to stick out like a sore thumb. Always have a clean, white towel or paper towel on hand that can be used to gently dab away stain-causing liquids, such as coffee or wine. 

Avoid rubbing these spots and instead focus on absorbing as much of the liquid as possible. You can then use a cleaning solution to deal with the spot or, for more reliable results, call on our expert team for stain removal. 

The third step to maintaining clean area rugs is to have them professionally cleaned on a regular basis. For area rugs in small rooms, the right frequency is usually every year to a year and a half. However, if children or pets frequent the space, yearly cleanings are likely a must. Avoid skipping professional cleanings even if your rug doesn’t look dirty, as deep-set dust and grime need to be removed to promote the longevity of the textile.

Allow Us to Help You Embrace Your Small Space with Clean Area Rugs

At Chem-Dry, we are proud to help homeowners make the most of tiny living spaces with beautiful and clean area rugs. You can count on our support no matter what type of rug you choose. Our experience extends to cleaning oriental rugs, natural fiber rugs, synthetic rugs, and more. Reach out to us today at (800) CHEM-DRY to get started!