Area rugs are a great way to show off your style and add softness to your home.
Some people are concerned that the rugs might stain their carpet, which is very likely to happen.
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How Will a Rug Affect the Carpet Underneath Over Time?
The primary issue of putting an area rug on a carpet is that the rugs lack a stable foundation.
When you step on an area rug, the carpet fibers beneath it compress due to the weight of your foot and decompress once you lift it away. As a result, three things will occur.
When the carpet fibers squish and rise again, they push against the area rug, causing it to move along the floor, requiring you to reposition it regularly.
The section(s) of the rug that receives the most foot traffic will eventually stretch out of shape and appear unsightly.
Can you Leave a Rug on a Carpet for Years?
Carpets are usually replaced every 6–7 years, and if it’s properly maintained, it will last more than ten years.
On the other hand, area rugs that sit in rooms with a higher humidity level could indeed develop mold over time, and area rugs in cooler rooms can develop mildew over time.
In any case, if the area rug over your carpet is emitting an odor that you seem unable to remove, it is time to replace it.
What Types of Rugs Will Cause the Least Carpet Stains?
Even if you are the most meticulous person, it is impossible to keep rugs completely clean.
So, when it comes to buying an area rug, you should go with a long-lasting, easy-to-clean material. Fortunately, there are numerous options for durable, low-maintenance rugs.
Take a look at the five easiest-to-clean rug materials to make your cleaning routine go as smoothly as possible.
Wool:
Wool rugs are well-known for their durability.
Wool fibers are shaped like a coil or spring, which helps them retain their shape and color even in high-traffic areas. Wool rugs are naturally stain-resistant, but they are less water-resistant than other types of rugs.
Wool rugs shed a lot when they’re new, so be prepared to vacuum frequently. If your wool rug becomes dirty or stained, remove the stain with clear dish soap and a wet washcloth.
Polypropylene:
Polypropylene is a synthetic rug material that is very easy to clean.
Polypropylene is widely regarded as one of the most durable synthetic materials. Despite being easy to clean and long-lasting, this rug material is soft and comfortable. All you have to do is spot clean and vacuum to keep it clean.
Polypropylene is resistant to water and stains. As a result, polypropylene is frequently used in outdoor and entryway rugs.
Jute:
Natural fibers derived from tropical plants are used to make jute rugs. This rug material is both strong and long-lasting, as well as reasonably priced. When stored in dry areas, jute rugs are very easy to clean.
To keep a jute rug looking new, blot spills or stains and hang it to dry. You can also vacuum it to keep it clean and free of dirt and grime. Jute rugs should be kept dry because they are not resistant to water, mildew, or mold.
Cotton:
Cotton is another durable rug material that is less expensive than wool. While not as durable as wool or polypropylene, cotton rugs are easy to clean.
To kill odor-causing bacteria, wash a small cotton rug in a washing machine and allow it to air dry in the sun. If your cotton rug is large enough, you can spot and steam clean it.
Seagrass:
Seagrass rugs, like all-natural fibers, are naturally stain-resistant. These natural rugs are long-lasting and easy to clean, and they typically retain their earthy, natural appearance.
Seagrass rugs, like jute rugs, are meant to be spot cleaned or blotted. For seagrass rugs, simple vacuuming will suffice.
Seagrass rugs are insulating, making them an excellent choice for larger rooms in less humid climates.
Do People Generally use Rugs on Carpets?
Since decors are a very personal thing and what works for some won’t work for others.
However, for people who are just renting out their apartments or cannot buy a new floor carpet, having an area rug over the carpet is the best way to cover the worn-off parts or soiled spots.
Area rugs can also add a pop of color or texture in a way that doesn’t require a total room overhaul.
The options for area rugs are pretty much limitless. You can even make your custom rug out of broadloom.
A Few Extra Rugs Pointers:
Finally, here are some cleaning tips for your rug:
- Purchase the best materials you can afford.
- Purchase the appropriate rug material for your lifestyle.
- Use rug cleaning methods that are appropriate for the material of your rug.
- Stop dirt at the door by removing your shoes or using a welcome mat to clean your shoes when you enter your home.
- If your rug is expensive, have it cleaned by a professional regularly.
Sources:
Tips for Using Area Rugs Over Carpet