Braided rugs are a timeless addition to any home and by incorporating just a few simple micro-habits into your monthly routine, you can keep your braided rugs looking as fresh and vibrant as the day you bought them. And the best part? Each of these habits takes just 10 minutes (or less) to complete!
1. Quick Spot Cleaning
Time Required: 3 Minutes
Spills and stains are inevitable, but they don’t have to spell disaster. Clean up any spills you see happen immediately, but for those that went unnoticed take a few minutes once a month to inspect your rugs for any spots. Use a gentle, rug-friendly cleaner to address any areas of concern. Simply blot the spot with a clean cloth and cleaner, working from the outside in to prevent the stain from spreading. Quick attention to these small spots will prevent stains from setting in and keep your rug looking vibrant.
2. Gentle Vacuuming
Time Required: 4 Minutes
While it’s important not to over-vacuum your braided rugs to avoid fraying, a gentle vacuuming session once a month (or more for high traffic areas) can do wonders for keeping them clean and bright. Use the vacuum’s upholstery attachment or set the vacuum to its lowest suction setting. Go over the rug slowly and gently, making sure to get into the crevices. This will lift away dirt and debris that can dull the rug’s colors over time without causing damage to the fibers.
3. Rotating the Rug
Time Required: 2 Minutes
To ensure even wear and prevent fading in one particular area, it’s a good idea to rotate your braided rugs once a month. This simple habit helps distribute foot traffic more evenly across the rug’s surface, preventing one area from becoming more worn or faded than others.
4. Sunlight Check
Time Required: 1 Minute
Exposure to direct sunlight can cause the colors in your braided rugs to fade over time. Once a month, take a moment to assess how much sunlight your rugs are getting. If you notice a rug is in a particularly sunny spot, consider rearranging the room to limit exposure or you can also use window treatments, like curtains or blinds, to control the amount of light that reaches your rug during peak hours.
That's it!
With these four micro-habits, you can easily maintain the vibrancy and longevity of your braided rugs without spending hours on upkeep. Just a little time spent each month is all it takes to keep your rugs looking beautiful and fresh. Incorporating these small actions into your routine ensures that your beloved braided rugs continue to enhance your home for years to come. Happy decorating!