Rugs and carpets are essential elements of home decor, and they have the ability to completely transform the look and feel of a space. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, as well as a variety of fabrics to suit your needs. On the other hand, carpets and rugs can be expensive and difficult to clean, depending on the fabric and substance you choose to use.
If a carpet has been stored for several months, even years, in a storage room, it is not surprising that it acquires unpleasant odors, deteriorates and loses its shape and appearance. .
We have compiled a list of essential procedures you should follow when storing rugs or carpets for an extended period of time in storage so that they maintain their best appearance while in storage. It may take a little more preparation and attention to detail, but it will be worth it when you can remove them from storage and reinstall them on your floor .
Make sure everything is clean
Cleaning your precious rugs should be the first and most important thing before putting them away for the last time. It would be a shame to store a soiled rug, allowing dirt, allergies, dust and bacteria to grow while the rug is stored in storage, yet some people do just that. . It is a sure way to generate unpleasant odors and attract pests.
Instead, keep it clean and fresh by vacuuming and cleaning it thoroughly to remove any stains, crumbs, mildew, or residue that has built up. If you have pets or young children at home, you may want to watch the floor more closely for animal tracks, dirt, hair, and other debris. A thorough cleaning will keep your rugs and carpets looking their best for as long as they are in storage.
Keep an eye out for hazardous materials
Depending on how thoroughly you have vacuumed and brushed dirt and grime off your carpets, you may want to spend a little more time steam cleaning, mopping, or spot cleaning certain areas of the carpets. Remember that the type of materials used for your carpet, as well as the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions, influence your next cleaning technique.
Natural fiber rugs are often damaged and require frequent spot cleaning or delicate maintenance, but synthetic rugs can usually be machine washed. Read the label carefully, and if you’re still unsure, you can always ask a professional carpet cleaner for help. Just be careful not to do anything that you will later regret or that could damage your mat in the future.
Roll up your carpet well
As a general rule, rugs and carpets should never be folded. This could lead to creases in the fabric as well as degradation of the material. Instead, roll your rug with a rod to make sure it’s as straight as possible when you’re done. In general, the back of the mat will face outward to protect the fibers and components of the front of the mat.
Keep pests at bay
The presence of dirt and bacteria on your carpets, as we said earlier, can attract pests and insects, which can pose a threat to the integrity of your carpet. By spraying your items stored in a cabinet with an insect or pest repellent, you can keep them safe from insects and vermin. To be safe, make sure the repellent you use is safe for fabrics, or use a natural remedy like water and vinegar to repel bugs. This precaution is especially crucial for carpets made of natural materials, where pests and insects can be easily attracted.
Invest in a hedge
Wrapping or covering your mat with a cotton sheet or kraft paper will provide an extra layer of protection and help keep the outside world out. If you don’t mind spending a few extra bucks, you can also purchase high-quality polyurethane covers specifically designed for carpet storage. The use of plastic, which can be stuffy, is not recommended as the aim is to completely cover your mat while allowing good ventilation of the fabric.
Use a temperature-controlled cabinet
To keep your rugs or carpets safely stored, you need to use the right type of storage unit . Make sure the storage you choose is air-conditioned, which means temperatures won’t fluctuate and won’t expose your fabrics to moisture, mold or other damage.
Rugs and carpets should be stored in a clean, dry environment to prevent odor buildup, mold growth and material degradation. Air conditioning helps to ensure that your carpets are protected, regardless of the weather conditions or the humidity level of the environment.
Check regularly
Keep an eye on your rugs and carpets from time to time if you want to make sure they stay in top condition while they’re in storage. Every 3 or 4 months, schedule a check-up and unroll your carpet to examine it properly. Periodic cleaning may be required to ensure the storage unit is completely free of dust and dirt that may have accumulated during storage.
It’s a good idea to set aside some time to examine your rugs or carpets every couple of months if you plan to keep them rolled up in storage for a long period of time. Carpets, like any other piece of home decor, can be quite expensive to replace. Some pieces, like imported rugs, antiques, or rugs that have been passed down from generation to generation, can even be unique treasures. Don’t let your valuable rugs depreciate by storing them incorrectly.
To find out more about self-storage and long-term storage facilities, please call Easystock or email us using the form on the site.s
