Whether you're a homeowner looking to preserve your valuable floor coverings or a new rug owner looking for advice on proper storage, we're here to help you. This article provides best practices and top tips for keeping your rugs in pristine condition during storage.

The Importance of Proper Rug and Carpet Storage

Before we dive into storage methods, it's important to understand why proper storage is important. Improper storage can cause irreparable damage such as mould, fading, and pest infestation. By following our expert advice, you can protect your rug long-term and save on replacement costs.

Step-by-Step Guide to Storing Rugs and Carpets

1. Thoroughly Clean Your Rugs Before Storage

It is important to thoroughly clean your rugs before storing them. Dirt, dust, and debris left on surfaces can attract pests or cause permanent stains during storage. Follow these steps to properly clean your rug:

1. Vacuum both sides of the rug to remove loose dirt and dust. Vacuum the rug at the lowest suction level and without the beater bar. Otherwise, you risk damaging the rug.

2. Treat stains with a suitable cleaning solution or have stubborn stains professionally cleaned. Here you can find tips for removing stains yourself.

3. Allow sufficient time for the rug to dry completely before storing.

2. Roll Instead of Fold

When preparing your rug for storage, rolling it is preferable to folding it. Folding can cause creases and fibre damage, which can affect the overall appearance and lifespan of your rug. How to properly roll a rug:

1. Turn the rug over so its backing is up and lay it flat.

2. From the short side, roll the carpet tightly from end to end, keeping it straight.

3. Secure the rolled carpet with cotton or muslin string to prevent it from unravelling.

 3. Wrap in Breathable Materials

Wrap your rolled rug up to protect it from dust, dirt and pests. When covering your rug, opt for a breathable material such as cotton or muslin cloth however any fabric will work. Avoid using plastic because plastic is not breathable and traps moisture which can lead to mould growth inside the packaging. 

4. Choose the Right Storage Location

Choosing the right storage location is important to maintain the quality of your rugs. Ideally, keep it out of direct sunlight and in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Basements and attics are usually not suitable because moisture problems can occur. Temperature-controlled storage units are a great option for long-term storage but if you don’t want to spend the money on one then I recommend using your garage, just make sure not to place the rug directly onto the concrete floor and to use a shelf or cupboard for the rug.

 5. Elevate the Storage

To further protect your rug or carpet from potential damage, raise it off the floor. Storing rugs directly on the floor means they can easily absorb moisture and makes them susceptible to insect and rodent damage. Basements, garages, and other areas with concrete floors can be especially problematic because they are prone to high humidity. Placing it on pallets or shelves prevents moisture absorption and prevents pests from damaging the rug.

6. Regularly Inspect and Air Out

Every 6 months to a year, inspect the rug for any damage and unroll it to let it air out for a few days. Airing the rug will help to remove any odours that occur during storage and help to prevent mould and mildew.

7. Avoid Heavy Items on Top

Avoid stacking heavy objects on top of your rug. The extra weight can compress the fibres and cause deformation.

By following these steps, you should now be able to care for your rugs effectively. Proper cleaning, rolling and storage in the right environment will preserve the longevity and beauty, ensuring that they continue to bring warmth and style to your living space for many years to come. Remember, investing time and effort in proper storage now will save you rug replacement costs later.