Before you jet off on that well-deserved summer getaway, don’t forget to give your home some TLC – starting with your floors. Rugs not only add beauty and comfort to your space, but they also require a bit of care before you leave them unattended. Whether you’re gone for a weekend or a month, prepping your rugs can help preserve their condition and give you peace of mind while you’re away.
Here are our top tips for making sure your rugs are vacation-ready:
1. Give Your Rugs a Thorough Cleaning
Start by vacuuming your rugs to remove dirt, dust, and pet hair. If your rug is machine-washable (like many in our washable collections), now’s the perfect time to toss it in the washer for a deeper clean. For traditional or delicate rugs, consider a spot clean or professional cleaning if it’s due.
Pro Tip: Don’t roll up a rug that’s still damp – it can lead to mold or mildew growth.
2. Roll and Store Delicate Rugs
If you’ll be gone for an extended period or expect high humidity while you’re away, consider rolling up and storing your more delicate or expensive rugs. Use a cotton or muslin rug bag to protect them from dust and pests. Avoid plastic wrap, as it can trap moisture.
3. Protect High-Traffic Areas
If you’re hosting pet sitters, house sitters, or expecting deliveries while away, lay down a washable runner or a rug pad underneath your existing rug to protect flooring in entryways or busy spots. This helps prevent slipping and keeps wear and tear to a minimum.
4. Minimize Sun Exposure
June sunlight can be strong! Close curtains or blinds in rooms with large windows to prevent fading, especially for rugs in bright, sunlit spaces. UV exposure over time can dull colors and weaken fibers.
5. Treat Stains Before You Leave
Even small spills can become permanent if left untreated for days or weeks. Take a moment to spot treat stains with a gentle solution or rug cleaner appropriate for the material before you leave.
6. Use Rug Pads for Extra Protection
If your rugs don’t already have a pad underneath, consider adding one before your trip. Rug pads prevent bunching and slipping, especially on hardwood or tile floors, and help extend the life of your rugs by reducing friction against the floor.
7. Keep Pets in Mind
If pets will be home while you’re gone, make sure to place washable rugs in areas where they’re likely to spend time. Choose rugs that are pet-friendly and easy to clean to keep things low-maintenance for your sitter – or for you when you return!
Ready, Set, Relax.
Taking a few simple steps to prep your rugs before traveling ensures they’ll look just as fresh when you return as they did when you left. Whether you’re heading to the beach, the mountains, or simply out of town for a few days, your home will be one step closer to welcoming you back in style.
About Rugs.comRugs.com is a one-stop online rug shop for all your floor covering needs. With over 100,000 rug designs, the extensive selection of indoor and outdoor rugs offers a wide variety of shapes, styles, and textures – perfect for every season of the year and season of life. With more than 60 years of experience in hand-knotted and machine-woven rugs, the family-owned and operated business believes that “Beneath Every Moment” – whether it is a baby’s first step, a first dance, or a cherished memory – there should be a beautiful rug. Helping shoppers find the perfect foundation for life’s moments, Rugs.com is making online shopping simple with the lowest possible prices, fast and free shipping every day, award-winning customer support, and a 30-day free return policy. Rugs.com ships millions of rugs nationwide from the company’s South Carolina and California warehouses. Learn more at www.rugs.com.