Waterproofing a rug can instantly help your rug last longer. It makes it less likely to absorb spills and can save rug owners from the hassle of having to blot away stains on fabric. These are the best ways to make your rug waterproof.
Benefits Of Waterproofing A Rug
Waterproofing a rug is an affordable DIY project that most rug owners can complete in one day. There are several benefits to waterproofing a rug instead of purchasing a waterproof rug.
Cost Effective
Waterproofing a rug is more affordable than picking up a rug that is already waterproof. You can get supplies for this DIY project at most home improvement stores for under twenty dollars.
Prolong The Life Of Your Rug
Cleaning a rug every time there is a spill is necessary, but this can drastically reduce the lifespan of the rug. Harsh chemicals and having to dry in the sun can make the most beautiful handmade rugs look dingy within months. When you take the time to waterproof a rug, you’ll find that you don’t need to wash it as often.
Certain fabrics are also prone to mold and mildew when they get wet. This can be hard to clean, and often means that rugs will wind up going in the trash. You can avoid this situation by waterproofing your rug.
Enjoy Gorgeous Waterproof Rugs
There are waterproof rugs available for purchase, but most of these are made from synthetic materials or natural rubber. Synthetic materials can harm wood flooring. They leech chemicals into the air that are bad for the entire family. Natural rubber is a great option, but there are limited designs available. Rug owners can enjoy the benefits of a waterproof rug by waterproofing it themselves.
Reduce The Risk Of Carpet Mites
Carpet mites, which are also known as dust mites, are commonly found in rugs. They nestle in between the fibers of rugs, making it hard to detect them. A waterproofing fabric spray will help seal the rug, making it harder for carpet mites to make their way into your gorgeous oriental rug.
Fabric Seal Spray
This is an affordable spray that comes in an aerosol can. They make a waterproof spray for fabric of every kind!
To use fabric seal spray, test a small piece of fabric in an inconspicuous spot. Then, take your rug outside or place it on a drop cloth to avoid accidentally spraying it on anything else. Finally, follow the directions on the back of the can.
It is common to have to wait several hours for the spray to dry on the fabric to create a waterproof layer. Make sure that you place the rug in an area where it will not be disturbed for several hours. Start by using waterproof spray on the top of the rug. Then, flip the rug over and complete the same process on the back of the rug to create a waterproof seal.
Test Your Waterproof Rug And Rug Pad
It’s always important to test materials to make sure that they are waterproof. After waterproofing your rug or rug pad, pour a small amount of water onto it. The water should form small beads that can easily be wiped away instead of soaking into the fabric.
If you find that the water soaks into the fabric, complete the waterproofing process another time. You may need to repeat this process a couple of times to see the desired results.
Remember That Waterproof Rugs Are Slippery
After completing the waterproofing process, you’ll notice that your rug is slippery, even if it wasn’t before. Avoid using carpet tape to hold a rug in place. Carpet tape is not waterproof and is made of adhesive that can damage hardwood flooring. Instead, choose a waterproof rug pad.
Waterproof Rug Pads
A waterproof rug pad can provide additional protection to the underside of a rug. When there are spills near a rug, they tend to run into the rug pad. The liquid is then absorbed by the rug pad and gets the bottom of the rug wet. This results in the bottom of the rug having a high moisture content. The humid environment encourages the growth of mold and mildew.
Rug owners can avoid all of this by investing in a waterproof rug pad. If you already have a rug pad, consider using waterproof spray on your rug pad to make it waterproof.
Consider Your Choice Of Fabric
When searching for a new rug or rug pad to buy, it’s important to carefully choose your fabric. Certain materials are known for being water resistant. Others are waterproof.
What Is Water Resistant?
The terms water resistant and waterproof are often used interchangeably, but there are key differences that consumers need to keep in mind when shopping.
Water resistant products are made to hold up to small spills as long as they are quickly cleaned up. Because they are less absorbent, they are less likely to become damaged or stained from a minor accident. However, they are going to absorb large puddles of liquid.
Waterproof products can hold up to large amounts of liquid without absorbing any of it. These materials are often used for outdoor rugs where rugs will be exposed to harsh weather.
Natural Rubber
Rug pads that are made from natural rubber are both slip resistant and waterproof. They will go through the extra mile to make sure that your rug is protected from slipping and spills.
Those that are searching for a new rug can find natural rubber rugs. These are often made for outdoor use, but some homeowners also choose to place them indoors due to their ability to repel liquids.
Natural Latex
Natural latex is a natural material that makes a great alternative to rubber. Owners will appreciate that it is waterproof and has a firm grip on the floor. It is softer than rubber, making it more comfortable for people and pets to walk on.
You can easily find both rugs and rug pads made from natural latex.
Wool
Wool is water resistant. It is not a good choice for entryway rugs or outdoor rugs, but it can handle a spill or two in the living room.
To learn more about rugs and rug materials, check out the rest of our blogs. Then, browse through our gorgeous selection of hand knotted wool rugs to find your next water resistant rug.