Identify the rug before cleaning
Look for care labels and note fibre, construction, fringe, backing, stains, colour transfer and any previous treatment. If the material is unknown, delicate, handmade or antique, seek a rug-care specialist rather than testing an aggressive method.
Understand steam and hot-water methods
Household steam and professional hot-water extraction are different methods, and neither suits all rugs. Heat, moisture, detergent or agitation can cause dye bleeding, shrinkage, backing damage or slow drying. Use only a method allowed by the rug maker and service provider.
Prepare and treat spills carefully
Remove loose debris gently and blot spills rather than rubbing. Do not soak the rug, use baking soda on a wet rug, apply bleach or use a machine without checking suitability. Persistent stains, odours or damage may need professional assessment.
Compare a specialist service
Ask how the rug will be inspected, tested and cleaned, where work will occur, how fringe and backing are handled, how drying is managed and which results cannot be promised. Cleaning cannot restore worn pile, repair fraying or guarantee stain removal.
