Learning to Clean Like The Pro's

A few years ago, I realized that I didn't really know how to keep my house clean. There were always dishes sitting in the sink, and I couldn't keep up with laundry if my life depended on it. However, a friend of mine suggested working with a professional maid, and so I took her advice. As she worked, I watched her methods, and I learned a lot. This blog is dedicated to my cleaning studies. Here, you will find information on how to clean your house more effectively, so that you can stop wasting time on certain jobs. My plan is that this website could help you to live better than ever. Thanks for reading!

Navajo Rug Care Tips

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Navajo rugs are a beautiful souvenir from the southwest United States, whether you opt to use them as rugs or display them as hangings. Like any fine textile, these rugs require proper care to avoid damage and to become the heirlooms they are made to be. The following tips can help you keep your rugs in good repair.

Tip #1: It's All About Location

Generally, Navajo rugs are displayed rather than used as rugs. This is because many owners don't want to to chance staining or damage. Whether you opt to hang or lay the rug, a dry area that isn't in direct sunlight is the best option. Avoid areas where humidity is high, such as a kitchen or bathroom. If you do opt for floor use, consider a low-traffic area. A place where there is seldom foot traffic is the best location. Place a rug pad beneath the Navajo rug to help protect the fibers from stress.

Tip #2: Storage Mistakes to Avoid

Proper storage is another concern for these delicate textiles. If you must store your rug, a climate-controlled, dark area is best. This is why it is generally better to store the rug in a closet at home as opposed to a storage unit. Don't fold a rug for storage. Instead, lay a piece of acid-free tissue paper over the rug, and then roll it loosely. This prevents dye from bleeding and it also prevents creases from forming. If your rug does have creases, simply hang it or lay it flat. The creases will relax and flatten on their own.

Tip #3: Understand the Textile

Most Navajo rugs are made of wool, which makes them a target for pests like clothing moths. To prevent moth damage, store rugs in a sealed container. You can add a moth aversion product, like mothballs, if you like. If there are moths already infesting the rug, place it in a freezer for 24 hours. Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures kills both the moths and their eggs.

Tip #4: Restoration and Cleaning Pointers

The color in the fibers of a Navajo rug is not always set, so the dye may run if you attempt to wash it on your own. If you have stains or severe soiling, take your rug to a rug restoration specialist, such as Tashjian's Oriental Rug Service, that can set the dye and remove the stains. Daily cleaning is best done with the upholstery attachment of the vacuum cleaner. This is much gentler on the fibers than the beater bar on the bottom of the vacuum. Never shake or beat a Navajo rug to clean it – this can break and weaken the fibers used to make the rug.

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27 November 2015