Rug Cleaning vs. Carpet Cleaning: How They Compare

Carpet cleaning and rug cleaning are the same only in the sense that the ultimate goal is to make the carpeting or rug look as good as possible. Beyond that, they are entirely different processes. Unfortunately, not everyone is aware of the difference and some Arvada homeowners will bring in carpet cleaning companies with no rug experience to clean their area rugs and Oriental rugs, often with disastrous results. In this post, the team at Steve's Carpet Care take you through the differences between cleaning carpeting, area rugs, and Oriental rugs.

Carpeting, Area Rugs & Oriental Rugs: How Do They Compare?

Carpeting and rugs serve similar purposes in that they both enhance the look and comfort of your home. They are not, however, the same products. The following table examines the primary differences between each type of floor covering.

Each type of floor covering requires specific care methods to preserve its beauty and longevity. Regular maintenance and professional cleaning can help extend their lifespan.

A Closer Look at the Processes of Cleaning Carpeting and Cleaning Oriental Rugs

Now that you have a better idea of the differences between carpeting and area rugs let's dive into the different processes employed to clean them.

Cleaning Oriental Rugs

Oriental rugs, often handmade in Central Asia and the Middle East, are valuable, intricate pieces that require special care. If well-maintained, they can last for over a century. Our cleaning process begins by removing deep-seated dirt using a high-powered vacuum, vibration machine, or by hanging and beating the rug. We then rinse it with lukewarm water, followed by a squeegee process to extract more dirt.

Next, the rug is treated with a water-shampoo mixture, left to soak, then scrubbed—usually with a mechanical scrubber. After thorough rinsing, its natural colors and patterns re-emerge. Finally, we dry and brush the rug before a final inspection.

Because Oriental rugs are delicate, it's crucial to avoid off-the-shelf carpet cleaners, which can cause damage. Professional cleaning ensures longevity and preserves their intricate designs.

Cleaning Mistakes That Could Damage Oriental Rugs

Properly caring for Oriental rugs requires specialized techniques. Unfortunately, many common cleaning mistakes can cause irreversible damage.

• Scrubbing Stains – Scrubbing aggressively can fray delicate fibers and unravel handwoven patterns. Instead, blot stains gently with a clean cloth and seek professional help when needed.
• Using harsh chemicals – Many commercial cleaners contain strong chemicals that can fade colors and weaken fibers. They may also leave behind residue that attracts dirt, making rugs appear dirty again quickly. Use gentle, pH-balanced cleaners designed for wool or silk.
• Excess Moisture – Excess moisture can cause mold growth and color bleeding. Natural fibers retain water, making them prone to damage if not dried properly. Professionals use controlled moisture techniques to prevent these issues.
• Delaying Stain Treatment – Letting stains sit can cause permanent discoloration, especially from substances like red wine or pet urine. Blot spills immediately and use a safe, rug-friendly cleaner to minimize damage.
• Using the Wrong Vacuum – Beater bars can pull at fibers and weaken rug structure. Instead, opt for a suction-only setting or a vacuum designed for delicate rugs to prevent long-term fiber loss.

To keep your Oriental rug in great condition, it's always best to use a professional rug cleaning service that understands the delicate nature of these textiles.

Cleaning Area Rugs

Area rugs vary in materials—from synthetic fibers to wool, cotton, and silk blends. They require more care than standard carpeting but don't need the intensive process of Oriental rug cleaning.

Our method starts with dry soil removal, using a vacuum, vibration machine, or gentle beating. After spot treatment, the rug is cleaned with a water-based shampoo or low-moisture method. Unlike Oriental rugs, which require delicate rinsing and brushing, area rugs are scrubbed with a mechanical cleaner, followed by water extraction to remove residue.

A major advantage of area rugs over Oriental rugs is their faster drying time—most are ready for use in just a few hours. However, like all rugs, using harsh carpet cleaners can be risky. If unsure about proper care, professional cleaning is the safest option.

Cleaning Wall-to-Wall carpeting

Our company built its reputation on providing top-tier carpet cleaning services in central Colorado and beyond. Today, we use a truck-mounted steam cleaning system that reaches deep into carpet fibers. Unlike traditional wet vacs, steam cleaning minimizes leftover moisture, preventing mold or mildew issues.

Unlike the meticulous process required for Oriental rugs, wall-to-wall carpets don’t need extensive rinsing, brushing, or scrubbing. The result is a faster, highly effective cleaning process that keeps carpets fresh and free of embedded dirt.

Tips to Preserve the Quality of Rugs and Carpets

Regular care and proper maintenance can extend the life of your rugs, area rugs, and carpeting.

• Vacuum regularly – Dirt acts like sandpaper, wearing down fibers over time. Weekly vacuuming prevents buildup and helps maintain the rug’s texture and appearance.
• Rotate your rug – Even wear prevents fading and thinning in high-traffic areas. Rotating every few months distributes foot traffic more evenly.
• Use rug pads – These provide cushioning, prevent slipping, and reduce friction damage. They also minimize dirt buildup underneath, reducing abrasion.
• Blot spills immediately – Rubbing pushes liquid deeper into fibers, making stains harder to remove. Always blot with a clean cloth and use a cleaner suited for natural fibers.
• Schedule professional cleaning – Deep cleaning removes embedded dirt and allergens, restoring the rug’s vibrancy and softness beyond what regular vacuuming can achieve.

By following these tips, you can keep your rugs and carpets looking fresh and extend their lifespan.

Trust Steve’s for Expert Carpet Cleaning in Arvada

For more than 40 years Steve's has been helping the people in the Denver metropolitan area and beyond keep their homes looking and feeling great. If you need to have your wall-to-wall cleaned, or you have an area rug or area rugs you need cleaned (Oriental rugs or not) get in touch with the team at Steve's by calling us at (303) 530-4900. And while you have us on the phone ask about our other services.