Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Area Rug Cleaning

So...now you know a little about how to choose a rug, here are questions to ask any rug cleaner before entrusting your precious rugs to them!

1 - How long have you been cleaning rugs, and are you certified to do so by the IICRC? (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification - check for a certified cleaner near you at iicrc.org)
Experience and education are very important - you don't want an amateur "learning how" on your rug!

2 - How will you clean my rugs?
Fine wool rugs should be cleaned in-plant as follows: dusted and deep-vacuumed to remove dry soil, then hand-washed and cold-rinsed to protect the dyes and fibers. Don't settle for someone saying "I'll just steam-clean it at your house"!

3 - Do you remove dry soil before washing? How?
Very few cleaners own the specialized dusting and vacuuming equipment needed to remove as much as 90% of the dry soil before washing. This can result in deep, abrasive soil being left behind to grind away at the rug and wear it out, even though it "looks" cleaner on the surface.

4 - Will you inspect the rug for pre-existing conditions, and test it for crocking and bleeding before cleaning?
These are essential steps to avoid damaging the rug. Unfortunately, not everyone follows them. If your cleaner seems confused or doen't know what you're talking about, look for another cleaner!

5 - Are you insured?
This should be a no-brainer, but again, not everybody carries insurance.

6 - Do you stand behind your work with a money-back guarantee?
Of course we do! And so should anyone you entrust your rugs to!

Learn more about fine area rug cleaning at www.rugmastersofdurango.com

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