How to Dry Clean Rugs Step by Step

Is your rug starting to look dull or smell unpleasant, but you can't wash it with water?

Don't worry. Dry cleaning for rugs is a simple and highly effective technique that allows you to keep them clean and fresh without getting them wet, avoiding fibre damage or long drying hours.

This method is ideal for wool, jute, sisal, or delicate material rugs, but it also works on synthetic rugs or long-pile rugs.

In this article, we'll show you how to dry clean rugs step by step, what homemade products you can use, and when it is advisable to call a professional for a deeper maintenance.

When should I use dry cleaning for rugs?

Dry cleaning is a method that cleans and disinfects without the need to wet the fabric, ideal for keeping rugs in perfect condition without the risk of deforming them.

Instead of using water, absorbent powders, foams, or granules are applied, which trap dirt and odours inside the fibres. Afterwards, simply vacuum to remove all residue.

This type of cleaning is ideal for:

Rugs made of jute, sisal, cotton, or synthetic materials, which can deform or lose texture with excess water.
Rugs placed on wooden or parquet floors, where moisture could seep in.
Spaces where quick cleaning is needed, with no drying time.

Furthermore, it is perfect as periodic maintenance between deeper cleanings, as it keeps the rug fresh, dust-free, and looking well-maintained for longer.

Benefits of dry cleaning a rug

Applying periodic dry cleaning offers multiple advantages, especially if the rug is in high-traffic areas or exposed to constant dust.

Prevents moisture damage: Natural fibres are sensitive to excess water. With dry cleaning, they do not soak or lose their shape.
Extends the rug's lifespan: By eliminating ingrained dirt, you prevent dust from acting as an abrasive and wearing down the fibres.
Neutralizes bad odours: Dry products, such as baking soda or absorbent powders, capture odour molecules and leave a fresh scent.
Reduces mite proliferation: Keeping the rug dry and clean prevents allergies and the accumulation of microorganisms.
Allows for quick and safe cleaning: You can do it yourself at home without needing to move the rug or wait hours for it to dry.

If you have pets or small children, this type of cleaning is ideal: quick, without harsh chemicals, and without wetting the floor.

Next, we explain the most effective techniques for dry cleaning rugs at home, using both natural products and specific solutions.

All are safe for most fabrics and easy to apply, even if you have no experience.

1. Dry cleaning with baking soda

Baking soda is the most popular home remedy for cleaning rugs without water. It absorbs grease, neutralizes odours, and naturally removes surface dirt.

How to do it:

Vacuum the rug thoroughly to remove dust and hair.
Sprinkle baking soda over the entire surface, especially in the dirtiest or smelliest areas.
Let it act for 1 to 3 hours. If you can, even overnight.
Vacuum slowly until all the product is removed.

💡 Atticgo Tip: Add a few drops of essential oil (lavender, eucalyptus, or lemon) to the baking soda before applying it. You will achieve a more complete cleaning and a pleasant fragrance that lasts for days.

This method is especially useful for cotton or synthetic fibre rugs, as it cleans without damaging the fibres and leaves the fabric soft and fresh to the touch.

2. Dry cleaning rugs with fine salt

Common salt is another excellent natural absorbent.
Its function is to eliminate moisture and refresh the fabric without altering the colour, making it ideal for light-coloured rugs or delicate materials like jute or sisal.

How to use:

Sprinkle fine salt over the entire rug.
Roll up the rug and let it act for 4 to 6 hours.
Unroll it and vacuum to remove the salt and dirt residues.

This method is perfect for quick cleanings and maintenance, although it does not replace a deep cleaning if there are ingrained stains.

3. Cleaning foam or professional absorbent powder

If you prefer a ready-to-use option, there are specific products for dry cleaning rugs on the market. They come in powder or foam format and are very effective on large or high-traffic rugs.

Steps to follow:

Vacuum the rug before applying the product.
Distribute the powder or foam evenly.
Let it act for the indicated time (30 to 60 minutes).
Vacuum again until all residue is removed.

These products eliminate grease, wine, coffee, or mud stains without wetting the fibres, and also leave an immediate feeling of freshness.

💡 Atticgo Tip: Always read the label of the product and do a test in a less visible corner before applying it completely.

Always choose a cleaner suitable for the material of your rug (polyester, cotton, vinyl, etc.) to avoid discolouration or damage to the texture.

4. Dry cleaning machine or special vacuum cleaner

Some modern vacuum cleaners and domestic dry cleaning machines are designed to apply a minimal amount of liquid product or foam that dries quickly.

They are perfect for large rugs or fixed carpets.
You just have to fill the reservoir with the recommended cleaner and follow the manufacturer's instructions. The machine spreads the product, brushes it, and then vacuums it up, leaving the rug clean and dry in just a few hours.

If you have several rugs at home, this investment can save you a lot of time in the long run.

5. Localized stain cleaning without wetting the entire rug

Sometimes it is not necessary to clean the entire rug, but only a specific area.

For recent stains (wine, coffee, mud), you can use a damp sponge with white vinegar and baking soda. Apply with gentle dabs, without rubbing, and dry with a dry cloth.

For greasy stains, sprinkle a little cornstarch or talcum powder, let it act for a few minutes, and vacuum.

This trick is very effective on wool fabrics and mixed rugs with natural and synthetic fibres.

Also discover how often a hand cleaning can easily remove stains without the need for external elements.

Additional care according to rug type

Each material reacts differently to dry cleaning.
Knowing what type of fibre you have is key to choosing the most appropriate method and avoiding damage.

Wool rugs: They are resistant but delicate against moisture. Always use baking soda or powdered products and avoid pure vinegar.
Jute or sisal rugs: They do not tolerate any type of water. Only use dry cleaning with absorbent powders or salt.
Synthetic rugs (polyester, polypropylene): They accept dry foam or vacuum cleaners with low moisture cleaning.
Long-pile or shaggy rugs: Clean with a medium-power vacuum cleaner in different directions and use baking soda frequently.
Cotton rugs: They can absorb more moisture, but if you prefer to maintain their shape, opt for dry cleaning combined with regular airing.

If you have doubts about the material, check the manufacturer's label or consult a professional before applying any product.

Tips for keeping your rugs clean longer

Keeping a rug clean does not only depend on how you clean it, but also on how you care for it day by day.
Small gestures make a big difference in its appearance and durability.

Vacuum frequently: at least twice a week in high-traffic areas, once in less-travelled areas.
Avoid eating or drinking on the rug: Liquid stains are the most difficult to remove.
Place a non-slip pad: improves ventilation and prevents irregular wear.
Rotate the rug every six months: this will prevent the sun or constant use of one area from wearing it out more than the rest.
Use furniture protectors: to avoid pressure marks in specific areas.
Ventilate rooms frequently: natural light and fresh air help prevent odours and moisture.

Constant maintenance will extend the life of your rug and reduce the need for intensive cleanings.

How to eliminate bad odour from a rug without wetting it

One of the biggest problems with rugs, especially in winter, is the accumulation of odour due to lack of ventilation.
Fortunately, you can neutralize odours without resorting to water.

Natural method:

Mix a cup of baking soda with two teaspoons of cinnamon or a few drops of essential oil.
Sprinkle it on the rug and let it act overnight.
Vacuum thoroughly the next day.

This trick eliminates tobacco, food, or pet odours and leaves a fresh scent.

You can also air the rug outdoors once a month (out of direct sunlight) to oxygenate the fibres.

When to resort to professional cleaning?

Although domestic dry cleaning is effective, there are cases where it is convenient to leave it in the hands of specialists.
Professionals have industrial machinery and products tailored to each type of fabric, capable of removing deep stains or mites without damaging the rug.

Resort to professional cleaning when:

The rug is very large or you cannot move it.
There are persistent grease or wine stains that do not disappear with home methods.
It is a handcrafted or high-value rug.
The base or backing is damaged or deformed.
You notice intense odours of moisture or mould.

In general, professional cleaning is recommended once a year, combined with domestic dry cleanings for maintenance every two or three months.

Keep your rugs like new with Atticgo

At Atticgo, we believe that a well-cared-for rug completely transforms the feel of a home.

Regular dry cleaning helps preserve its original appearance, preventing dust accumulation and keeping the texture always feeling like the very first day.

Discover our selection of Atticgo rugs and give your home the care it deserves.