NORTH DAKOTA ( KXNET ) — Rugs are a piece of the home that ties everything together, but taking care of them can be a real hassle.

Thankfully, experts at The Perfect Rug have addressed the most common rug care questions.

The company analyzed Google searches, online forums, customer feedback, and social media to find key concerns that rug owners face.

And now they have six practical recommendations for all of them.

First up: How do you clean a rug?

Regular cleaning is key to maintaining appearance and durability. Vacuuming frequently in high-traffic areas, along with the occasional deep cleaning, can reduce the buildup of dust mites, pet dander, and mold. For deep cleaning, use a gentle rug shampoo or a simple solution of mild dish soap and after. If the rug is heavily dirty or delicate, the better choice is to get it professionally cleaned.

The second topic: How do I stop my rug from slipping?

It’s more than just annoying, it can be a real danger, especially for older people. According to the National Safety Council, falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths among those 65 and older — and slippery rugs are the most common culprit. Investing in a non-slip rug pad keeps the rug secure and adds a bit of cushion. For small rugs, however, it’s best to use double-sided carpet tape. Always make sure to get a rug pad or tape that works best with the floor to avoid any damage or discoloration.

The third question posed was: Is it safe to use a steam cleaner on my rug?

While it’s an effective method for deep cleaning, it also requires care and caution. However, some materials — like silk or certain synthetics — don’t tolerate heat well. Make sure to check the label on the rug before using steam, and opt for the lowest heat setting. When you’re done, make sure it dries thoroughly to prevent mold.

The fourth topic was asking about washing a rug in the washing machine.

The answer depends on the material and size. Cotton or synthetic rugs typically hold up well in a washing machine with a gentle cycle in cold water, and mild detergent (don’t use bleach or harsh chemicals), and let it air dry completely. For larger and more delicate rugs, hand washing or professional cleaning is the safest bet.

Removing stains was the fifth topic.

They are inevitable, but acting quickly can prevent them from becoming permanent. Blot, don’t rub, with a clean, white cloth. Most stains will need warm water and a mild dish soap solution. But tough stains — like wine or coffee — might be a specialized carpet cleaner. Once you’re done cleaning, rinse it with clean water and blot dry to remove the soap residue.

The final topic was about the best pet-friendly rugs.

Pet owners need something that can handle the daily wear and tear of living with animals, so rugs that are durable and easy to clean are needed. Materials such as low-pile synthetics, indoor-outdoor rugs, or naturally stain-resistant wool are all great choices. Opting for one that’s darker in color is also great because it hides pet hair and minor stains. It’s also crucial to have a non-slip pad.

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