How to Clean Rugs Like a Pro Using a Pressure Washer?
Do you have a dirty rug and often think of, “Can this thing really be restored to life?” Well you are not alone. We are telling you! They find it easy to get dirty, have pollen, mildew and mold, etc when they are just on the patios, decks and porches. Hand washing? Never would end-where that an adjective for ‘clean.’ But imagine getting a whole hour of beauty treatment for your rug using a pressure washer! That’s right! The final glaze on your adorable rugs can be obtained by simply wiping out any dirt with the right procedure and preparation effort. Let’s get going and dive into this wonderful and somewhat satisfying way of cleaning!
1. What is the Point in Pressure Washing Rugs?
Rugs may turn into a trap of dirt, dust, hair of pets, and stains that the traditional vacuum cleaner is not capable of removing, as per Bond Clean Brisbane. Cleaning with steam cleaners and professional cleaner services may be effective but this usually comes at a very high price. The pressure washer however is a much faster, much cheaper, and much more comprehensive method of cleaning your rug, inside out. The focused flow of water penetrates deeply into the fibers of the rug, dislodging accumulated dirt, making your rug clean and rejuvenated all you have to do with the help of concentrated water is little.
2. Which rugs can be pressure washed?
All rugs go well in pressure washing. Before starting it is worth evaluating the rug material and construction. Synthetic fiber such as polypropylene, thick cotton rugs and rubber-backed mats are pretty good at taking pressure washing. But very fragile indoor rugs of silk, wool, antique or hand-crafted finish rugs should never be pressure washed because the high force of water may hurt the fibers or backing. Basically, when it is indicated in the care tag, i.e., “Machine washable” or “Outdoor safe”, then more than likely your rug can be treated.
3. Get the Correct Supplies and Equipment
Get the correct tools to embark on the process of starting with. Rugs would suit a medium-duty electric pressure washer with 1200 to 1800 PSI pressure so that it can be cleaned in an efficient manner, but not too violently. You should also have some mild refinery or rug shampoo to remove dirt and stain lifting action and you will also need a scrub brush to pre-treat, a hose to rinse, gloves and a clean flat work surface like a driveway or patio to work on. In case your pressure washer comes with several spray tips, use 25 or 40-degree nozzle to make the spray broader and less harsh.
4. Laying Out the Rug to be cleaned
Adequate preparation may make the job effective and reduce the chances of a mess or damage. Start off by carrying the rug outside and shaking it hard to eliminate large wastes such as leaves, dust, sand among others. Subsequently, clean the top and the underside of the rug with a vacuum. It will eliminate the trapped dirt, which would otherwise turn into mud after the application of water. The next thing is to ensure that the rug lies flat on a smooth surface. It should not be placed on gravel, dirt, or rough concrete, because to clean it up you can make more mess and damage the backing.
5. Pre-Treat Stains
A good idea is pre-treatment any particular spots before starting the pressure washer. Take some water with a small portion of mild detergent and apply it on the stains. Keep the solution on the stain to dissolve the dirt after a period of approximately 10 to 15 minutes. In the more stubborn areas, like food stains, animal stains, or oil stains, simply penetrate the soiled area by softly scrubbing it with a brush. This will facilitate in cleaning stubborn discolouration by the pressure washer, thereby removing them completely in the main wash.
6. Start Pressure Washing
Now you are ready to start cleaning. One should wash a tiny, unnoticeable part of the rug to know that the pressure is harmless and it would not damage anything. When that is determined, then take the nozzle about 12 to 18 inches above the rug and start in straight alternating passes. Advance slowly on both sides, crushing dirt out of the fibers by the pressure of the water. Turn the rug up and do the same side again. But be sure not to stop at any given place too long because concentrated pressure may distort the fabric or results in irregular cleaning.
7. wash and Repeat (If You Need)
After scrubbing the rug with detergent and the first pressure wash, rinsing should be done by using clean water. The pressure washer works with a plain water or you may move into a garden hose to give the rinsing a softer touch. In case some parts of the rug still have dirt in them, then repeat the cleaning procedures. Most often, a single or two pass is quite sufficient to restore your rug to as good as new condition. It should be well rinsed to make sure that no soap was left and that it will not be tacky and that there will be no future accumulation of dirt.
8. Proper drying of the Rug
Mold, mildew and smelly odors are prevented by decent drying. Rinse, then take the rug out and put it over some fence, railing or strong piece of clothesline so that it can dry both sides at once. Place the rug in the full sunlight and leave it to dry there for some time. It depends on weather and thickness how much of the day is requisite in drying it. Turn it upside down half-way into the drying phase to make sure both sides are absolutely dry. Do not roll the rug or fold it whilst it is still wet, because it can bring permanent damage to rug and also trap bacteria and bad odors.
Conclusion
Pressure washers are effective in cleaning your rug but they are very rewarding as well. It changes an old and dirty carpet into a new fresh clean surface without subjecting itself to costly services and equipment. This is by far an excellent way to prep seasonally or even to revive a forgotten outdoor mat. All it needs is a fair bit of water pressure, a few rays of sunlight and the correct technique and your rug will be changed like magic, no filthy to fabulous. Heck, go put on that rug, pop on your washer, and Let the makeover commence!
