When To Replace Your Old Area Rug

Area rugs don't last forever—there comes a time when you have to say goodbye to the old and hello to the new. A rug's lifespan will vary based on regular maintenance and your household foot traffic. Families with little ones are going to have more wear and tear. Likewise, muddy paws and shedding fur from pets will also accelerate your area rug’s aging. Here are a few signs of when to replace your old area rug.

Signs To Replace Your Old Area Rug

A quality rug like our southwestern style rugs should last around 10 years. Here are the three telltale signs it’s time to replace your old area rug:

Stains

With the right cleaning supplies and regular professional cleaning, you can remove tough stains from your area rug. With any home, especially one with pets and kids, stains are going to happen. Keep in mind to use the correct cleaning supplies to avoid damaging the fibers and dyes in your rug.

Smell

Another sign of when to replace your old area rug is an odd smell. If an unpleasant odor is coming from your carpet, it could be mold. A professional rug cleaner could save the rug, but you should consider your health first and foremost. Mold and other allergens can contribute to allergies and related health problems.

Wear & Tear

Rugs located in a living room by the front door versus a bedroom will wear out faster. They’re just going to see more foot traffic. Signs of rug wear and tear are worn fabric, faded color, and matted fibers. There is no way to restore wear and tear on an area rug.

The Lifespan of Area Rugs

The typical lifespan of area rugs is anywhere from 5 to 10 years. The longevity will depend not only on your home's foot traffic but also on how you maintain your rug. The following are a few tips on proper area rug maintenance:

• Shaking: Before you clean your rug, take it outside and shake it to loosen any large debris. Shaking the rug will help before a deep cleaning.
• Vacuuming: Regularly vacuuming your rug is an easy and inexpensive way to keep it clean and allergen-free.
• Stain Removal: When stains appear on the rug, like from a spill, take care of the stain sooner rather than later. Always be sure to use the correct cleaning products.
• Annual Deep Cleaning: Your area rug should have a deep cleaning at least once a year. A professional cleaning will help preserve the original quality of your rug. Be sure to hang your rug either out in the sun or on an improvised drying rack to ensure it is dry before going back onto the floor. Doing so will help prevent mold from growing.

If you take stock of these signs, you’ll know when to replace your old area rug. Shopping for a new rug is a perfect time to change up the décor of your home. Check out our diverse selection of area rugs at Boutique Rugs!