Well, we all are probably well-versed in how to get out those pesky carpet stains and how to scrub down those tile floors. But what about those oriental and area rugs? Rugs require a special kind of cleaning. And considering that they are often some of the best decorative pieces in your home, you'll want to keep them looking their best! However, many rugs are used to cover tile and wood floors and pick up dirt from people's shoes and feet. These rugs, in particular, can be a unique challenge.

But don't fret. There are some basic rules to rug cleaning you can abide by that will ensure your rugs stay nice and clean and best of all, with as little effort as possible from you.

First off, let's make an important distinction. While “rug” and “carpet” used to be interchangeable terms hundreds and hundreds of years ago, this is no longer the case. A carpet is fastened down to a floor (and often is “wall-to-wall”), while a rug is simply a textile that covers the floor and is not fastened down. More importantly, carpets and rugs are made out of very different materials. This is why cleaning a carpet is not the same thing as cleaning a rug.

The past few years, there has actually been an increase in area rugs! Thus, more and more people are asking: how do I maintain my rug? But let's not take on large oriental rugs that almost act as a form of wall-to-wall carpet. Instead let's focus on “area” rugs, which are the most common type of rug found in homes today.

More often than not, people have their rugs cleaned professionally. Many customers even have their rugs picked up and delivered back to their homes. Thus, they don't have to lift a finger! However, oftentimes a professional can come to a customer's home and clean the rug on the spot. Because there are so many kinds of rugs and such unique materials woven into each one, it does take a trained, skilled expert to properly clean most rugs.

People often don't realize how important it is to keep up with their rugs. But dust accumulates over time and can settle into the rug. Usually, you won't see this dust, so your rug will look just fine. However, after dust and dirt has spent some time in your rug, your rug's lifespan will shorten; it will wear and tear over time. So this is why it's a good idea to get your rug cleaned every two years. In addition, you can help lengthen the life of your rug by simply rotating it once a year! This will ensure that certain areas of it won't get walked on more than others.

In addition to cleaning your rug, you can also get it repaired. If you have a special attachment to it and would prefer to get it fixed, rather than replaced, you can save some money and some anguish by getting it professionally repaired.

But how can you maintain your area rug yourself? Besides rotating it annually, you should vacuum your rug every three to eight months. And don't forget to vacuum the backside of it too! Whatever you do, don't spoil your rug. In other words, do not send your rug to a professional for cleaning more than once a year (once every two years is fine).

For smaller rugs, like bathroom rugs, you don't need a professional however. With some vinegar and wool cleaner, you can put your smaller area rug in a tub of water and softly scrub it. Then make sure to thoroughly rinse it with fresh water. You can let it dry out in the sun or take a hairdryer to it.

Products to avoid when cleaning your area rug are detergents and ammonia. While these can sometimes work to fight stains on carpets and the like, they will only harm your rug.

But what about stains? Do you really want to get your rug professionally cleaned just because of one small mark? Especially if your rug has already been cleaned recently, you don't want to be too rough on it. So, instead, blot (don't rub) the stain with cleaner. You can look up what cleaners and household remedies are best for different stains. For example, did you know that club soda can be used to get out red wine stains? The key is to take care of the stains as soon as possible.

Just remember, that above all, vinegar is your best friend when it comes to taking care of your rug. One reason is that vinegar will reinforce the colors of your rug, instead of making them run.