Why Choose a Pressure Washer When Cleaning A Rug
The high-pressure water spray helps remove stubborn dirt and stains that are trapped deep within the rug fibers. The pressure washer lifts out dirt that causes rugs to look dull and fade over time.
After thorough washing with a pressure washer, the rug's colors appear brighter and more vibrant as accumulated dirt is removed. This makes the rug look new again and improves the overall aesthetics of the room.
The rug typically smells fresh and clean immediately after a pressure washing. This improves the overall odor of the room for human inhabitants.
Process Clean An Area Rug with Pressure Washer
Step 1: Prepare the rug for cleaning
Before beginning, you prepare the rug for cleaning. Flip it over and lay it flat on the ground. Vacuum thoroughly to remove as much loose dirt and debris as possible. Check the care label to confirm the rug is machine washable. If not, you should take it to a professional cleaner.
Step 2: Wear proper protective gear
As a human operating a high-pressure machine like a pressure washer, it is critical to protect yourself from possible injury. By thoroughly protecting my eyes, hands, and feet with the appropriate safety gear including goggles, water resistant boots, and heavy-duty gloves. I can lessen the likelihood of any accidents while operating the high-pressure sprayer.
Step3: Set the pressure washer
Carefully setting the correct pressure on the washer before spraying the rug is vital to avoid damage. The machine's pressure should be reduced to its lowest setting – typically around 1000 PSI before the water ever touches the rug.
After reducing the pressure, you begin spraying the rug in the middle, moving outwards in small sections. Spraying in overlapping circular motions from the center of each section helps saturate the fibers evenly.
Step 4: Use a nylon brush or rag to gently agitate the rug fibers while spraying
While spraying the rug with low-pressure water, take a soft-bristled nylon brush or old rag and gently agitate the rug fibers. you must take care to agitate the rug gently and not forcefully scrub or rub the brush against the fibers. Rough or excessive brushing could damage the pile and change the texture of the rug. For better performance, you can apply the rug soap after pre-rinse and then scrub as this step.
Step 5: Thoroughly rinse the entire rug with clean water
To flush out all remaining cleaning agents, you can start by spraying and lightly agitating a small section to rinse away any soap in that area. Then moving on to the next section, overlapping the spray to ensure full coverage. Continue spraying and agitating each section until the rinse water runs completely clear, with no signs of suds or bubbles.
Step 6: Dry the Rug
Once rinsed, flip the rug back over and loosely roll it to remove as much excess water as possible. Lay the rug out flat in direct sunlight or use a rug drying machine to dry it completely before putting it back into use. Check for any lingering spots and spot clean with detergent if needed.
Some Important Considerations When Washing An Area Rug With Pressure Washer
Avoid damage – Be vigilant for signs of fraying fibers, bubbling, or discoloration that indicate too much force or water. Stop immediately.
Use the right nozzle – A wider spray nozzle with a fan pattern will spread water more evenly over the surface. Narrow jet nozzles are too concentrated.
Thoroughly rinse – Agitate and spray both sides of the rug with clean water until the rinse water runs clear. Any leftover residue can damage fibers over time.
Conclusion
Proper preparation and a gradual, gentle cleaning process are key. With patience and the right tools and techniques, a pressure washer can be safe and effective for deep cleaning area rugs when handled properly by an informed human user.