How to Clean an Area Rug on Hardwood Floor | 10 Steps by Expert

In today’s homes, area rugs are a great way to add a touch of style and personalization to any room. Rugs can be a great addition to any living space but can also be challenging to clean. Area rugs on hardwood floors are especially tricky, as they can quickly accumulate dirt, debris, and stains. Cleaning an area carpet on a hardwood floor can be daunting, but fear not! With the right tools and knowledge, you can quickly and easily clean your area rug to make it look new again. Let’s learn how to clean an area rug on the hardwood floor.

However, the best way to clean an area rug on a hardwood floor is this:

• Gather the supplies needed – vacuum, broom, dustpan, mild detergent, bucket, scrub brush, and towels.
• Vacuum the rug thoroughly to remove dirt and debris.
• Sweep the area underneath the rug to remove any dust and dirt particles.
• Prepare the cleaning solution – mix a mild detergent and warm the water in a bucket.
• Test the cleaning solution on an inconspicuous spot.
• Scrub the rug with the cleaning solution and scrub brush.
• Rinse the rug with clean water.
• Wring out the excess water with towels.
• Let the rug air dry.
• Vacuum the rug once it is dry.

However, let’s discuss some helpful tips on cleaning an area rug on a hardwood floor. 

The Home Affluence team will also discuss the best products to use for cleaning, the proper technique for cleaning, and how to maintain the rug’s cleanliness moving forward. With these helpful tips, you can keep your area rug looking new all the time, my friend!

How To Clean an Area Rug on Hardwood Floors

Gather the supplies needed.

Before beginning the cleaning process, it is essential to gather the supplies needed. 

These include a vacuum, broom, dustpan, mild detergent, bucket, scrub brush, and towels. 

Depending on the size of the rug, it may also be necessary to move furniture to gain access to the carpet. Having the right supplies on hand will ensure the cleaning process runs smoothly and efficiently.

Vacuum the rug thoroughly to remove dirt and debris.

The second step in adequately cleaning an area rug on a hardwood floor is to vacuum the carpet thoroughly to remove dirt and debris. 

It should do with a vacuum cleaner set to low suction, as higher suction settings may cause the rug to become damaged. 

Additionally, move the vacuum slowly and evenly across the rug. 

Make sure to vacuum both sides of the rug and the edges. 

It will ensure that all dirt and debris do remove from the rug.

Learn More: How To Clean Unfinished Hardwood Floors

Sweep the area underneath the rug to remove any dust and dirt particles.

To ensure your area rug does clean correctly, sweep the area underneath the carpet to remove any dust and dirt particles. 

It is essential when the rug is on a hardwood floor, as dust and dirt can get trapped between the carpet and the floor and can be difficult to remove. 

Taking the time to sweep the area thoroughly will help ensure your area rug is spotless and free from debris.

Prepare the cleaning solution.

Preparing the cleaning solution before beginning the area rug cleaning process is essential. 

Mix a mild detergent with warm water in a bucket, stirring the mixture thoroughly. 

Ensure the detergent is mild, as harsh detergent can damage the rug fibers. 

Once the solution does prepare, you are ready to start the cleaning process.

Test the cleaning solution on an inconspicuous spot.

Before applying any cleaning solution to your area rug, it is crucial to test it on an inconspicuous spot.

It will ensure you are not damaging the material of your rug or potentially discoloring the hardwood floor below. Apply a small amount of the cleaning solution in a discrete area and wait a few minutes to observe any changes in the color or texture of the rug or wooden floor.

If you notice any changes, discontinue the cleaning solution and find an alternative safe for the rug and the hardwood floor.

Scrub the rug with the cleaning solution and scrub brush.

After vacuuming the area rug:

• Prepare a cleaning solution. The mixture should consist of 1/4 cup of white vinegar, 1/4 cup of rubbing alcohol, and 1/2 teaspoon of dishwashing detergent.
• Pour the solution into a bucket of warm water and mix until it is thoroughly blended.
• Apply the solution to the rug with a scrub brush.
• Work in circular motions to ensure that the solution is thoroughly applied and that dirt and debris do remove.
• Rinse the rug with a damp cloth to remove the cleaning solution.
• Allow the rug to air dry completely before replacing it.

Rinse the rug with clean water.

After you have completed the preliminary cleaning of your rug, it is time to rinse it with clean water to remove any dirt and detergent residue. To do this:

• Fill a bucket with clean water and use a damp mop or cloth to wipe the rug.
• Rinse the entire surface of the rug, including the edges and the back.
• Once you have rinsed the rug, use a dry cloth or mop to dry it thoroughly. It will ensure that no dirt or residue do leave on the carpet.

Wring out the excess water with towels.

Wash the excess water using towels to dry the area rug after washing. Make sure to lift the rug off the floor to avoid damaging the hardwood. 

Once the rug is dry, lay it on the floor and place a fan nearby to help dry it thoroughly. Tineco Vacuum cleaners are best for cleaning dry floors.

Let the rug air dry.

Once all dirt and debris do remove from the rug, it is essential to let it air dry. 

Allowing the rug to air dry will not only ensure that the rug is completely dry but will also help to minimize the risk of mildew or mold growth.

It does recommend that the rug be placed in an area with good air circulation and low humidity.

Make sure to periodically check the rug for signs of dampness and adjust the rug’s location if necessary. Additionally, it is crucial to avoid direct sunlight when air drying the rug, as it can cause it to fade or discolor. 

Finally, ensure to avoid walking on or placing furniture on the rug while it is air drying, as this can cause damage to the rug’s fibers.

Vacuum the rug once it is dry.

Once the carpet is dry, it is important to vacuum it to remove any dirt or debris that may have been left behind from the cleaning process. Vacuuming will help extend your rug’s life and ensure it retains its beauty. 

Vacuuming should use a vacuum specifically designed for carpets and rugs and slowly and methodically move the vacuum in overlapping patterns to ensure that all dirt and debris do remove from the surface. 

Additionally, always empty the vacuum canister often and clean any attachments as necessary. 

Vacuuming your rug regularly can maintain its beauty and extend its life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you shampoo the carpet on the wood floors?

Yes, you can practically steam-clean carpets on wood floors. On the other hand, you must admit that wood floors are susceptible to water damage, and you should take the primary steps to protect them.

How do you clean a large area of carpet in the home?

Cleaning a carpet that has a large area is not a simple job. It’s best to leave this job to professionals. On the other hand, if you want to do this work with your own hands, you must follow the steps we leave you in this text.

Can you use Rug Doctor on wood floors?

Rug Doctor’s hard floor cleaner safely breaks down grease and sticky substances without leaving a residue. Our hard surface cleaner restores and revitalizes hard surfaces such as stone, tile, laminate, vinyl, and sealed wood floors, making it perfect for cleaning kitchens, entryways, bathroom surfaces, and more.

Expert Opinion

Cleaning an area rug on a hardwood floor is a challenging task that requires attention to detail. 

However, if done correctly, it will not only give your floor a thorough clean but also help to keep your area rug looking new and vibrant. With the right tools and knowledge, you can successfully clean an area rug on a hardwood floor and protect both your floor and rug from dirt, dust, and bacteria.

In conclusion, area rugs can be a great way to add comfort and style to any room. However, they require proper care and maintenance to keep them looking their best. Cleaning an area rug on a hardwood floor is a straightforward process requiring a little elbow grease, the right cleaning products, and the proper techniques. I hope you have learned how to clean an area rug on hardwood floor.