Eventually rugs need some type of cleaning to remove soil that sticks to the fibers. How often depends on amount of use and soil rugs get; some rugs areas will need cleaning before other. Basic methods are: dry absorbent powder, foam, shampooing, and hot water extraction (sometimes called rugs steam cleaning or extraction). Each method has advantages and disadvantages. Costs in dollars, time, and energy vary, as do skill needed to do a good job. Always vacuum thoroughly before starting cleaning method. Here are some general precautions for all rugs cleaning methods:
 Pretest before using
Do not over wet the rugs. Excess moisture can cause shrinkage, streaks, or mildew.
Protect the rugs from rust stains by putting aluminum foil, wax paper, or plastic wrap under furniture legs, until rugs is dry.
Keep mechanical action to a minimum to avoid rugs damage or streaks .
Follow the rugs cleaner and equipment instructions as directed.
In the dry powder method, absorbent granules containing dry cleaning solvent are sprinkled over a section of rugs and worked into the pile by mechanical or hand brush. The dry cleaning solvent dissolves oils and greasy soil. These are then absorbed by the granules. When thoroughly dry, the rugs are vacuumed. A powerful vacuum is essential for total removal of cleaning granules.
Advantages
 effective for spot cleaning
good for delicate and non-colorfast rugs
short drying time
relatively inexpensive
Disadvantages
 complete granule removal may be a problem
not recommended for shag rugs
dry cleaning solvent can evaporate in storage
less effective on heavy soil or water-base soil
Have your rugs professionally cleaned periodically, every third or fourth time, if this service is available in your area. Or you may find it more convenient to have it done professionally each time special cleaning is needed, rather than doing it yourself.
Professional cleaners use similar methods to home cleaning, but they should have the knowledge, equipment and experience necessary to do a more thorough job of removing embedded soil. Room size rugs and some wall-to-wall rugs can be sent to the rugs cleaning plant.
Professional cleaners can also handle spot removal, re-dyeing, rebinding and repairs. Always alert the cleaner to the location and cause, if known, of spots and stains that require attention.
When selecting a cleaning service, the main factor to consider is the operator's skill and ability. Ask reputable rugs dealers in your area whom they recommend. Satisfied customers may also suggest a cleaner to contact. rugs cleaners of long standing reputation can usually be relied upon to provide satisfactory service. They cannot provide guarantees, however, because of the range of quality and wear they face in the rugs and rugs they clean.
Professional rugs cleaners offering truck-mounted hot water extraction, will have more power to remove soil and water than in a smaller, self contained unit (like the ones you rent). Another professional method using carbonic foams the rugs with the same bubbles as club soda, and less water. This method often leaves less moisture on rugs.
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