Nowadays, there are many types of modern carpets and rugs to choose from. Over the years, polypropylene rugs have become popular for home use. They complement any room because of their various shapes and sizes.
This guide will outline useful practices for both routine and deep cleaning, so they can remain in pristine condition for years to come.
Cleaning Supplies
Polypropylene is a thermoplastic polymer that does not absorb moisture like natural fibres, which makes the rugs more durable. They can resist stains more successfully than other types as a result.
These qualities play an essential role in the way you clean them. With just a few basic tools, you’ll be set to keep your rugs looking fresh:
- Vacuum cleaner;
- Soft-bristle broom;
- Lint roller;
- Rug shampoo;
- Microfibre towel;
- Sponge;
- Enzymatic cleaner;
- Baking soda;
- White vinegar;
- Carpet cleaner;
- Steam cleaner or mop.
Regular Cleaning Tips
Your rug will quickly look spotless if you perform basic cleaning periodically.
Ideally, vacuuming should be done every week. However, you will have to do it more often if the rug is located in a busy area.
In addition, use a soft-bristle broom to clean remote spots once in a while. That’s particularly essential if you have pets.
Moreover, polypropylene rugs usually don’t smear if you clean spills immediately. Spot-clean them with a spray bottle filled with some water and rug shampoo.
Make sure you avoid heavy rubbing, which will make things worse. You don’t want them to settle further.
How to Remove Stains
Accidents happen, and spills are inevitable with the constant use of any carpet or rug. The trick is to know exactly how to handle them.
With the right tools and techniques, you can gently lift stains so your rugs are as good as new. In this section, you’ll discover how to tackle the most common ones.
Pet Stains
If you have a cat or dog, you’re used to how frustrating pet stains are. Our little furry friends tend to mess up rugs quite often, don’t they? However, they are easier to deal with on a polypropylene rug.
Start by buying a proper enzymatic cleaner. Test it first to ensure it doesn’t cause any discolouration. If it works well, proceed to the next step.
Apply the solution to the stained part and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. You don’t need to scrub, as the cleaner dissolves the particles automatically.
Simply wait for the solution to work, rinse with water, and then let it dry.
Wax Stains
Although considered stubborn, we have an easy hack for you. All you have to do is freeze the wax with an ice plastic bag. When it’s completely frozen, scrape it off using a knife.
That step should remove most of the wax. For the remainder, lay a paper bag on the affected area, and then press a warm iron on it. Repeat this step until the bag absorbs the rest.
Oil Stains
The reason oil spills are mostly considered difficult to remove is that people clean them the wrong way.
First, you should blot the stain with a cloth or paper towel to absorb as much oil as possible. Try to avoid rubbing it to not worsen the stain.
Apply an oil-cleaning solution afterwards. If you don’t have one, blend some warm water with rug shampoo and baking soda. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to loosen the oil.
Scrub in a circular motion with a soft sponge and, just like that, your stain is gone. The last step is to rinse properly and let it dry.
Water-based Stains
Liquid spills are quite common in every household. Fortunately, polypropylene fibres are resistant to stains, so you can easily get rid of them in no time.
Simply mix some warm water with a cleaning detergent and white vinegar.
The mixture works as a lubricant to effectively break down residues that have started to dry.
Now, dampen a towel in the solution. Afterwards, just rub and dab the stain. Use a sponge to remove the cleaning solution and rinse it well. That’s all.
When to Consider a Deep Clean
Your carpet accumulates dirt eventually, regardless of your cleaning frequency. So, how do you know it’s time to deep clean your precious polypropylene rug?
Visible Dirt
When your rug looks unclean, that’s your most obvious cue.
If you vacuum regularly but you can still see visible dirt, debris, or pet hairs, then the time has come.
Wear and Tear
Sometimes when your rug looks too worn out, that’s because you don’t deep clean it enough.
Over time, the accumulation of dust builds up to form a solid layer of dirt. It becomes embedded in your rug and makes it look completely worn out.
Stains
If there’s a mixture of spilt food and drinks lying around on your carpet, then you need a deep-cleaning session.
Regular cleaning won’t do the trick with old stains.
Bad Odours
Spilled food, drinks, or pet accidents can cause extremely bad smells.
Even if your carpet looks perfectly clean to the naked eye, if there is a bad odour, then a problem is lingering deep in your rug.
Rough Texture
If your rug feels too greasy, oily, or stiff, then it’s time for a deep clean. When dirt dries within the carpet’s fibres, it roughens its texture.
Discolouration
Polypropylene rugs are well-known for their unique shapes and colourful styles. However, if you’ve recently noticed that the colours aren’t as bright and the patterns are getting dimmer, you need to deep clean.
Lingering dust can take its toll on the beautiful nature of your rug.
Increased Allergies
If you’ve been feeling sick recently and your allergies are acting up, that could mean there are some unwanted guests living on your rug.
Mould, pet dander, and other allergens can live unnoticed and trigger allergies.
How to Deep Clean Polypropylene Rugs
Deep cleaning this type of rug isn’t a daunting task, thankfully. It’s actually pretty simple if you follow these clear instructions.
Carpet Cleaning Machine
Renting or buying a good rug washing machine is a good idea to maintain periodic deep cleaning.
Start by vacuuming your polypropylene rug to remove excessive debris. Afterwards, add a proper cleaning solution and warm water to the tank.
Use it to wash the entire rug until it looks completely clean, and rinse thoroughly. Some machines feature a rinsing option.
Finally, use a soft-bristle brush to lift the fibres of your rug and leave it to dry.
Steam Cleaning
Many wonder if you can steam-clean polypropylene rugs. The answer is yes, and it’s actually the easiest and safest way.
Always vacuum your carpet first to get rid of dirt. Next, fill your steam cleaner with water and check for the appropriate water temperature. If the water is too hot, it could damage your rug for good.
Make sure you wash every part of your carpet in straight lines with the machine. Luckily, it doesn’t require any cleaning solution. Steam will do the trick on its own.
When done, allow your carpet to dry in a well-ventilated area.
Professional Cleaning
Sometimes, it can be confusing to choose the best cleaning method for your specific rug. Or you simply might not have the energy for it.
Not to worry, though. You don’t have to suffer through an oil stain or allergens. You can just go for carpet cleaning services, and they’ll help you out.
They have specialised equipment, solutions, and expertise to completely transform your rug.
Conclusion
Polypropylene rugs are a wonderful addition to your home. That’s why a lot of people prefer them. They are definitely practical and offer unique qualities.
As with any beloved item, in order to preserve its condition for longer, you’ll need to clean it using the right methods. Follow our guide and update your cleaning routine now. You will not regret it.
