Expertise Since 1982
Rug Care
Discover our expert tips for preserving the beauty of your rugs
Terry's Tips
Keep Your Rugs In Perfect Condition
Rotation
Your rugs 1-2 times a year for an even wear and sun fading.
Rug Pad
Extend the life of your rug and protect your floors (hardwood, tile, marble, etc.) by using a proper rug pad.
Vacuuming
Vacuum your rugs as often as needed (Floor attachment only, NO roller/beater bar). Vacuum in one direction only, WITH the nap. In fact, for centuries, rugs have been swept and brushed with regular brooms and brushes. The vacuum cleaner with a beater bar was invented for broadloom/wall-towall carpet and can seriously damage area rugs over time.
Professional Rug Cleaning
Have your rugs hand washed every 3-5 years by a professional like Terry. Even if not walked on regularly, rugs still need to be refreshed and have their matted down/squashed fibres restored.
REMEMBER: Dry Cleaning and Steam Cleaning are HARMFUL to natural fibres such as wool, silk and cotton. The best method is Hand Washing by professionals.
Note: Oriental rugs can be used in your home or office as well as in areas where traffic is very high. Although these rugs can withstand such abuse, they will certainly last longer with just a little care.
Video Tip
Dusting Demonstration
Learn professional techniques to keep your rugs in perfect condition.
At-Home Care
Spot Cleaning
Step-By-Step Cleaning Guide
- Remove the excess of the spill (on pile rugs) by either Vacuuming (ShopVac or similar) or scooping out the liquid with a regular spoon (traditional method) Attention: Blotting/Dabbing is bad for a pile rug, for it pushes the spill deeper into the rug. Only use blotting/dabbing on a flat weave rug.
- Prepare the following simple formula: 1 cup of cold water, 1-2 drops of Ivory Dish Soap (or any soap soft on the hands) and half teaspoon of WHITE vinegar, agitate.
- Pour some of the solution on the spot and scrub/brush it to agitate the fibres, suck up with vacuum or scoop with spoon. Repeat as many times as you see fit.
- Rinse with clean water then vacuum or scoop out the liquids again. Repeat the process as necessary.
- Final step: Once you are satisfied with the cleaning, Brush the pile (while still damp) towards the original direction of the nap and let the rug dry. When completely dry, brush the piles again to loosen the fibres and achieve the natural soft look. Voilà!
Buyer's Guide
Choosing Rugs Wisely
Handmade Rugs
We never recommend handmade rugs for families with pets or children, as spilled liquids can penetrate deeply into the fibers and are hard to remove completely.
Hand-Tufted Rugs
Hand-tufted rugs are even worse. They have a soft fabric backing that is glued on, made by punching yarn through a canvas.
Machine-Made Rugs
With machine-made rugs, liquid can pass through the weave, meaning you can rinse and clean it better without damaging the rug.
Professional Service
At Terry’s Rugs, we specialize in professional rug cleaning in Ottawa, offering gentle but effective care for all types of rugs.