Seven Mistakes to Avoid when Storing Your Rug

You wouldn’t think of a rug as an exceptionally fragile item. But if your rug isn’t treated correctly, it won’t be around for long. Whether it is an ornate rug, a large rug for inside of your home or a welcome mat, it is important to store it correctly to keep it damage-free.

The Top Mistakes People Make When Storing a Rug

1. Storing a Dirty Rug: Pests are drawn to crumbs, food stains, dirt and pet dander. And unfortunately, what is often caked in all of these things? Rugs. Before storing your rug, give it a thorough cleaning. Check the manufacturer approved instructions before cleaning the rug. Different rugs require different cleaning care. If the rug doesn’t have manufacturer approved instructions, it might be a good idea to get the rug professionally cleaned.
2. Storing a Wet Rug: Storing any wet item in a storage unit will result in a mold and mildew infestation. The best way to combat mold and mildew is to give your items ample amount of time to dry before storing them. If it is a dry and warm day, place your rug outside for 24 hours to dry. Be cautious to keep your rug out of direct sunlight though because it can cause the rug to fade.
3. Folding a Rug: When storing your rug, roll it instead of folding it. Folding the rug can cause it to crack or crease. Roll the rug with the grain. To find which way the grain goes, run your hand under the rug. Keep the rug from unrolling while in storage by securing it with a rope.
4. Not Using a Rug Storage Bag: A rug storage bag will be beneficial in protecting your rug from any dust or dirt that may settle on it during storage. When choosing a rug storage bag, choose one that is made out of breathable material. A good option might be a canvas or other cloth bag.
5. Not Storing the Rug Vertically: Store the rug vertically to protect the shape of the rug. Avoid placing any items on top of the rug while it is in storage.
6. Storing the Rug in a Location with Fluctuations in Temperature: Fluctuations in temperature can be damaging to your rug. Unfortunately, this means that storing your rug in the basement, garage and attic are not a solution. If you do not have a location in your home that is safe for rug storage, consider using a climate controlled storage unit. A climate controlled storage unit will maintain a temperature that is safe for rug storage.
7. Not Checking the Rug for Signs of Damage while in Storage: Unfortunately, dust, dirt, food stains and pet dander aren’t the only threat to your rug. Moths, carpet beetles and other creepy crawlies are looking to make your rug their next meal. While a clean rug has a less chance of being sought out by bugs, it is still a good idea to check on your rug periodically. Plan on stopping into your storage unit to check on your rug every 3 to 6 months. If you notice any signs of damage to your rug, it likely needs to be fumigated to kill off any bugs.

Find Self Storage Has Rug Storage Solutions

Following all of these rug storage tips will help to keep your rug damage-free. Need to store your rug in a self storage unit? Find Self Storage has storage facilities in Plano, TX, Dallas, TX, Carrolton, TX, Leesville, LA and in Alexandria, LA on Windermere Blvd and Lodi Rd. Our storage facilities have a variety of storage unit sizes, including our 5×5 and 5×10 storage unit, that are perfect for storing most rugs. Contact us to rent a storage unit today!