Storing area rugs is often an afterthought. But improper storage can lead to permanent damage like mold, mildew, and pest infestations. Fortunately, you can easily prevent damage to your rugs with proper cleaning and storage techniques.
In this comprehensive guide, as a professional custom rugs manufacturer, I’ll walk you through my proven system for safely storing area rugs. Follow these steps properly and you’ll keep your rugs looking great for years to come.
Why Proper Rug Storage Matters
Rugs are investments. And like any other investment, you want to protect their value over the long run.
Improperly stored rugs are susceptible to:
- Mold and mildew growth from moisture
- Pest infestations from insects and rodents
- Fading and discoloration from light exposure
- Permanent creases and cracks from being folded or stacked
These damages can quickly render a rug unusable. And repairs can be expensive.
By properly preparing and storing your rug, you avoid these issues. And your rug will retain its beauty and value over time.
How to Store Area Rugs: Step-By-Step Guide
Follow this simple 5-step process for safe rug storage:
1. Clean the Rug Thoroughly
Before storage, clean your rug to remove any dirt, dust, stains, or debris.
For a quick clean, thoroughly vacuum both sides of the rug. This gets rid of dust mites, pet hair, dander, and other microscopic particles.
For a deeper clean, use an appropriate rug shampoo. Always refer to the manufacturer’s label for proper cleaning methods.
If there are any liquid stains, blot them with an absorbent cloth and cleaning solution. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain.
After cleaning, allow your rug to completely air dry before the next steps. Any moisture left can breed mold during storage.
2. Apply Pest Repellent
Insects and rodents love to nest in rugs. So before storage, apply an insect and moth repellent spray. DIY repellents made from essential oils also work well.
Check under the rug and along the edges for any signs of bugs. Also inspect the storage area itself for pest activity. Address any issues before placing your cleaned rug in storage.
3. Roll Up the Rug (Don’t Fold It)
Rolling is better for rug storage than folding. Folding can crack the rug backing and damage fibers.
To roll properly:
- Lay the dry rug completely flat
- Determine pile direction by lightly brushing your hand across the fibers
- Begin rolling loosely with the pile facing inwards
- Roll evenly from end-to-end into a cylinder
- Secure with rope, twine or tape (avoid over-tightening)
4. Wrap in a Breathable Material
For extra protection, wrap your rolled rug in a breathable material like cotton or canvas. Avoid plastic wraps that trap moisture.
You can also use a large fabric storage bag. Just make sure air can still circulate so the rug stays dry.
5. Store Rug Vertically
Always store area rugs vertically rather than laying horizontally. Vertical storage helps the rug keep its shape and form.
Place your wrapped rug upright in a corner or lean against a wall. Make sure it’s elevated off the floor on a shelf or platform. Keep heavy objects from resting on top that could crush or distort the rug.
Inside a climate controlled storage unit is ideal. Consistent temperature and humidity prevent mold growth.
Storing Different Types of Rugs
The basics remain the same, but there are some additional considerations with specific rug materials:
Wool rugs: The most susceptible to insect damage. Use cedar chips/blocks in storage for added repelling.
Silk rugs: Extra delicate and prone to water stains. Take extra care when cleaning.
Cotton rugs: More breathable than wool. Still apply repellent but air out the rug fully before reusing.
Jute and sisal rugs: Typically hardy against pests naturally. Main risk is moisture damage so allow extra drying time.
Antique/vintage rugs: Get professional cleaning and repairs before storage to prevent further aging. Handle extremely delicately.
Avoid Long-Term Storage When Possible
Ideally, rugs should be unrolled and aired out every 6 months during storage. Inspect for any early signs of damage and re-clean/treat if necessary.
If a rug stays packed away for years, even with proper prep and storage, some wear and tear over time is unavoidable. Long-term storage should always be a last resort.
Key Takeaways
Preserving your area rugs is easy when you follow these best practices:
- Thoroughly clean and completely dry rugs before storage
- Take precautions against potential insect/pest damage
- Loosely roll up rugs (never fold them)
- Keep rugs breathable and store them vertically
- Unroll and inspect every 6 months for needed maintenance
Following this simple routine keeps your rugs looking fresh, extends their lifespan, and retains their value.
Now you know exactly how to properly store area rugs. Just be diligent in your preparation and maintenance, and you’ll be rewarded with beautiful, long-lasting rugs for years of enjoyment!