Area rugs tie your home’s aesthetic together, protect your flooring and keep your feet warm during the colder months. However, they can get dirty fast. Foot traffic, pets, spills and household messes can end up damaging your rugs. Instead of risking stains that won’t come out, try waterproofing your area rugs in South Amboy, NJ. Here’s why you should do it:
See fewer stains: Even when you think you’ve mopped up a stain, it can pop back up like a bad penny. If the stain soaks into the padding at the base of the area rug, it can work its way back up into the carpet fibers again. Waterproofing helps eliminate the possibility that your rug will retain stains.
Easy cleanup: Spills and messes are inevitable, especially if you have pets and children. Waterproofing your area rug makes it a lot easier to clean up those messes. They’ll be less likely to soak into your rug and make a permanent stain.
Avoid wear and tear: Frequent use means that your area rug will see a lot of wear and tear over the years. Waterproofing your area rug can actually help the rug resist dirt, mud and other wear and tear.
Longer lifespan: Finally, all of these factors keep your rug looking great longer—which means you can get years’ worth of additional life out of it. Why spend money on a brand-new area rug when you can keep the one you’ve got looking great?
How to waterproof your area rugs
To waterproof your rugs in South Amboy, NJ, you’ll first need to find a good waterproofing spray like Scotchgard or WaterSeal FabricSeal. (Do a patch test to make sure the spray doesn’t affect your area rug’s colorfastness.) Depending on the size of your rug, you may need more than one can.
Next, call your local carpet cleaning company to deep clean your rug. You should already be having it professionally cleaned at least once per year, but especially before you waterproof your rug. You don’t want to seal in dirt, stains and odors. After your rug is deep cleaned, let it dry completely. This can take a day or two.
Finally, use the spray to coat your rug according to the directions. You’ll apply the waterproofing spray to the top side of your rug. Use thin, even coats and let dry in between. It should take about four hours to dry in between coats, as long as you’re not saturating the rug.
Once you’ve applied two to three coats of waterproofing spray, let it dry for at least 24 hours. Try to avoid walking on the rug or spilling anything on it at this time. After the 24-hour period has passed, test to see if it’s water resistant. Flick some water on the fabric—if the water beads up on the surface of the rug, you have successfully waterproofed your area rug.
For more information on how to waterproof area rugs in South Amboy, NJ, or to schedule your cleaning, call Lov ‘N Kare Carpet Center.
Wicker outdoor furniture is a staple in many patio setups in South Amboy, NJ. Not only is wicker beautiful, it is also versatile and comes in a wide variety of different colors, shapes and looks to match every décor style.
But even more than this, wicker as it is used for outdoor furniture is exceptionally durable and long lasting. The wicker material is woven together, reinforcing its strength even in the face of harsh weather elements. For outdoor use, there could perhaps be no better match.
What is wicker, anyway?
Wicker is rattan, bamboo or other reeds woven together to create a solid surface. The materials of the wicker can be molded into just about any type of furniture, from side tables to rocking chairs. Wicker can be used indoors and outdoors for plant stands, coffee tables and even entire dining tables. Its versatility is what has made it a particularly popular choice for outdoor patio setups.
One thing to look out for when purchasing wicker furniture is loose weaving, which can result in loose strands of reed or bamboo sticking out in various directions and causing discomfort. Additionally, look out for wicker furniture that is crafted too upright or lacks the ability to add cushions. This can also be uncomfortable and may detract from the outdoor patio experience for you and your guests.
Why is wicker used outdoors?
First and foremost, wicker is used outdoors in South Amboy, NJ because it is easy to maintain. Wicker is made of materials that don’t rot or succumb to water damage easily. In fact, wicker discourages mold growth. Wicker materials also prevent infestations of bugs or mites.
Wicker is lightweight, too. This makes it easy to move around or transfer indoors at the outset of winter. Additionally, it is safe for small children in that it’s delicate yet substantial. Wicker furniture will not tip easily.
One of the best reasons wicker is great for every outdoor patio is that it can be customized to best reflect your space. Not only does wicker come in a variety of different shades and lacquers, but you can also add unique pillows and cushions to reflect your unique style.
Although it’s exceptionally easy to maintain, outdoor wicker furniture in South Amboy, NJ still needs some attention. To keep wicker furniture strong year after year, use a protective spray to coat the outside of your chairs or tables. This will deter water damage and mildew, enhancing the wicker’s strength and durability for the long term. For even better protection, look for a resin-based wicker—furniture made of this type of wicker will only need to be wiped clean when it gets dusty.
You may spend a good amount of money investing in a set of wicker chairs or tables, but you will also be able to rest easy knowing that your investment will last for years, require little to no maintenance and serve as a comfortable relaxation place for all your guests and family.
For more information on cleaning services for your wicker outdoor furniture in South Amboy, NJ, contact Lov ‘N Kare Carpet Cleaning today.
Outdoor furniture is exposed to the elements day and night, meaning it can get dirty fast. Especially if you have white or light-colored cushions, furniture or outdoor rugs, dirt can show quickly, look unseemly and deter guests from enjoying the space.
But keeping your outdoor furniture clean in South Amboy, NJ, requires only a few simple steps. Fortunately, regular upkeep is not only achievable, but when incorporated into a routine, can take just a few minutes a day to complete.
Maintain fabrics and textiles outdoors
One of the best ways to keep your outdoor pillows, couches and rugs clean is to use a protective, water-resistant spray. A generous coating of this spray prevents dirt from getting ground into fabric during cleaning. You can also use it on your outdoor umbrella.
A protective spray also mitigates water damage. Even so, during a heavy rain, it is always best to store cushions and other removable fabrics away in a wicker chest or garage.
Excessively windy and stormy weather can blow all sorts of leaves and debris around, and your outdoor textiles will not be spared. As odd as it sounds, using a leaf blower or small handheld broom to take care of this loose debris after a storm is quick and painless. Waiting to clear debris from your outdoor furniture will only allow dirt to settle, and make cleanup more difficult. Don’t delay—clear your outdoor spaces regularly and save yourself the headache later.
One last line of defense is to use a removable outdoor couch or furniture cover. Because it’s machine-washable, cleanup is as simple as removing the dirty fabric and replacing it after a quick cycle. If this isn’t possible for you, however, an all-purpose cleaner can be great for spot-cleaning especially dirty areas. Let the cleaner soak for heavier stains before scrubbing.
Create a checklist
Daily or weekly upkeep is a chore, but putting it off is worse. Buildup of dirt and water can permanently damage your outdoor furniture if left unaddressed for long stretches of time. That’s why having a daily or weekly checklist can help you spend less time over the long run caring for your outdoor furniture.
The items to include on your checklist vary depending on the region you live in. Consider how much rain you get, how much time you spend using your outdoor furniture and the features of the furniture you own.
If you get a lot of rain and don’t expect to use your outdoor furniture during the winter, retire it in the late months of fall to protect it for another season. If you live in a sunny region where your outdoor furniture gets used all year long, dusting may be your top priority.
Different types of furniture require different types of care. Check the cleaning and maintenance requirements on the tag or packaging when you purchase new furniture for your outdoor patio. Save these in a book or bin for easy access and reminders.
For more information on keeping outdoor pillows and furniture clean in South Amboy, NJ, contact Lov ‘N Kare Carpet Center.
Outdoor cushions are designed to withstand all kinds of weather conditions and external factors—including direct sunlight, precipitation and extreme temperature fluctuations—but that doesn’t mean they won’t need some extra care every once in a while to keep them looking clean. To keep outdoor cushions clean while saving time, a lot of people wonder whether washing patio chair cushions in the washer in South Amboy, NJ is a good option. Keep reading to learn more about this cleaning method and whether it’s safe for your outdoor cushions.
Can patio cushions be washed in the washer?
Washing patio chair cushions in the washer in South Amboy, NJ seems very convenient—which is why so many people choose to use this cleaning method over manual deep cleaning. In general, many outdoor cushions can be thrown into the washer, but there are some exceptions. Here are the factors to consider before putting patio cushions in the washing machine:
Tag instructions: Check the tags on your outdoor patio cushions to find out whether they can be washed in the washer. Depending on the type of fabric, it’s possible that your cushions might not be suitable for machine washing. If that’s the case, it’s best to follow whatever washing method is recommended on the tag.
Size of the cushion: If your patio cushion is particularly big, a washer might not be able to clean it effectively. Even if the cushion can fit into the washer, it might be too big for the washer to effectively agitate and spin the load. Ineffective spinning and agitation can prevent cushions from drying out all the way, leading to the development of mold and mildew that can ruin outdoor patio cushions. For the best results, use the washing machine for smaller cushions and use alternative cleaning methods for cushions that are too big for the washer.
Type of cushion and covering: If your patio cushions have removable covers, it’s easy to unzip them, pull them off the cushions and throw them into the wash. Washing machines are great for cleaning covers and getting rid of dirt, grime, residue and debris both inside and out. However, if your cushions don’t have removable covers, it might not be possible to wash them in the washing machine. If your cushions are made of a dense foam, washing might cause them to absorb too much moisture and develop mold or mildew. Cushions that are made of certain materials might not be suitable for the washing machine, so it’s best to have them professionally cleaned.
Professional furniture cleaning
If you’re having trouble keeping your patio cushions clean, and washing your patio chair cushions in your washer won’t do the trick, get help from the team at Lov ‘N Kare Carpet Center in South Amboy, NJ. We offer furniture cleaning services to get upholstery looking like new again. Our effective methods are great for getting rid of residue to make your cushions look their best and last longer. To find out more about our furniture cleaning services, or to request service from our team, simply give us a call today.
Outdoor furniture is great for providing a comfortable place to lounge and enjoy some fresh air while reading a book, entertaining guests or spending quality time with family. Unfortunately, outdoor furniture cushions often get dirty over time because they are exposed to environmental conditions. The good news is that cleaning outdoor cushions in South Amboy, NJ can be very effective when it’s done right. Keep reading to learn about the best ways to keep your outdoor cushions clean.
How to clean outdoor cushions
Using the right techniques can make all the difference when it comes to cleaning outdoor cushions. Here are some of the best and most effective ways to keep outdoor cushions clean in South Amboy, NJ:
Use the right cleaning solution: For the best cleaning results, make sure to start with the right cleaning solution. There are plenty of commercial cleaning products on the market for cleaning outdoor cushions in South Amboy, NJ, but DIY cleaning solutions can be very effective, too. Make a solution out of a mixture of bleach, lukewarm water and gentle soap. Use a ratio of one quarter cup of soap and one cup of bleach per gallon of water.
Gather the right materials: To deep clean outdoor cushions, gather a clean sponge or cloth and a bucket for mixing your cleaning solution. It’s also a good idea to get a scrub brush to get rid of stains and gunk on the cushions and zippers.
Rinse the cushions: Before going in with your cleaning solution, rinse all the cushions off with a garden hose to wash away any loose debris or grime. This will prep the surface for cleaning and make it easier to target staining and discoloration without any debris getting in the way.
Apply the solution to the cushion: Next, apply the cleaning solution to the cushion using a clean sponge or cloth. Dip the sponge or cloth in the solution and apply it all over the cushion while scrubbing it in. Scrub thoroughly, but use gentle pressure to avoid tearing the cushion fabric.
Let the solution sit: After scrubbing all the cushions, let them sit for about 10 minutes to give the cleaning solution a chance to soak in. Waiting before rinsing the solution is a great way to maximize the effectiveness of the cleaning solution and ensure a deep clean.
Rinse: Next, rinse the cushions thoroughly using a garden hose. Make sure to get rid of any soapy residue that’s left over after cleaning.
Let your cushions dry: Finally, it’s time to let the cushions air dry. Make sure to set the cushions out on a dry day and set them on their sides for the quickest drying. It’s also best to place the cushions with the zipper side down for faster drying.
Professional furniture cleaning
For professional help cleaning outdoor cushions in South Amboy, NJ, reach out to Lov ‘N Kare Carpet Center. We offer comprehensive cleaning services, including professional furniture cleaning, to keep all the surfaces in your home looking their best. As a locally owned and operated company, we are dedicated to the quality of our services and the satisfaction of our customers. Find out more about everything we have to offer and get your furniture looking brand new by giving our experts a call today.
Fabric Protection Warranty Plan