The modern vacuum cleaner is a powerful tool. Too powerful sometimes.
It is also a seemingly controversial machine with many different viewpoints on it’s use.
Most of us are unaware of the damage and premature wear that a misused vacuum actually does.
While vacuuming dust and general dirt regularly is a good idea, the way we use our beloved vacuum cleaner should be looked at carefully.
Many vacuums now have rotating brush heads which open the pile up so that more dirt can be vacuumed out.
Sounds like a great idea, but there are several caveats that we must be aware of.
Firstly, motorised brush heads are designed ONLY to be used on cut pile carpets.
That’s right. Loop pile carpets will be damaged by the cross action brushing over the yarn, leading to tearing of the yarn, which causes fibres to lose strength and this in turn causes a fluffy and matted appearance- effectively shortening the life of the carpet.
This applies to rugs also.
Depending on the material and construction of the rug, there are specific methods for each- rugs made with certain methods can be seriously damaged by using a rotating brush head. Pile can be loosened, or even pulled out completely.
Rugs don’t need harsh vacuuming- the best method is a plain vacuum head, with gentle motions across the pile to lift and remove any dust and dirt. No vigorous action required.
Reversing the rug to vacuum the underside is also advised to remove any sand or hidden debris.
If you have one of our rugs don’t hesitate to contact us for advice on how to best care for it- send us your concerns, the name of the rug so we know what it is, and we will provide detailed information for the best care for your rug- or ask at time of purchase if you have any specific concerns.
Remember before our modern times, there were no vacuum cleaners and many of those rugs still exist today.
