arslanianbros

The Right Way to Store a Rug

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 01:54:47 GMT

The Right Way to Store a Rug

Whether you are swapping out seasonal rugs, protecting a valuable oriental during a renovation, or simply freeing up space in a room, storing a rug properly is one of those things that seems straightforward until you unroll it months later and realize something went very wrong. Moisture, pests, improper folding, and poor storage conditions can permanently damage even a well-made rug in a surprisingly short amount of time. So, before you pack that rug away in storage, listen to the Arslanian Bros . on how to go about rug storage properly.

Always Clean Before You Store

This is the step most homeowners skip, and it is the most important one. Storing a rug with dirt, dust, or any organic residue trapped in the fibers is an open invitation for moths, beetles, and mildew. Even a rug that looks clean to the naked eye can harbor enough debris to cause serious damage over a long storage period. Professional cleaning before storage removes what vacuuming cannot, setting the stage for safe, long-term preservation.

Roll, Never Fold

Folding a rug creates sharp creases that can permanently damage the foundation and distort the pile. The correct approach is to roll the rug with the pile facing inward around a clean, acid-free tube, which protects the surface and maintains the rug's shape throughout storage. Rolling direction matters too: always roll along the length of the rug, not across it.

Wrap It Properly

Once rolled, the rug should be wrapped in breathable material, never plastic. Plastic traps moisture against the fibers, creating the exact humid conditions that mold and mildew need to thrive. Acid-free paper or a breathable fabric wrap allows the rug to release moisture naturally while keeping dust, light, and pests out.

Where You Store It Matters Just as Much

Basements and attics might seem like natural storage spots, but both tend to experience significant humidity fluctuations and temperature swings that are hard on rug fibers and dyes over time. A climate-controlled environment is the gold standard for rug storage, and it makes a meaningful difference for rugs with sentimental or monetary value.

Let the Professionals Handle It

Arslanian Bros. offers professional rug storage for Cleveland, OH, homeowners who want their rugs properly cleaned, rolled, wrapped, and kept in ideal conditions until they are needed again. We also offer carpet cleaning , upholstery cleaning , and rugs for sale to help you care for every corner of your home. Request service today at (216) 271-6888 and trust your rugs to the team that has been caring for them since 1959.

Your Window Blinds Are Dirtier Than You Think

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 01:49:59 GMT

Your Window Blinds Are Dirtier Than You Think

Window blinds have a way of blending into the background until the afternoon sun hits them at just the right angle. At that point, there is no ignoring it. Every slat is coated in a layer of dust, grime, pet dander, and everything else that has been drifting through your home's air for months. The frustrating part is that cleaning blinds is one of those tasks that takes forever, makes a mess, and is hard to do right. Thankfully, you've got Arslanian Bros . on your side to help you tackle blind cleaning. Here's why they're dirtier than you think.

Why DIY Blind Cleaning Falls Short

The standard approach — wiping slats one by one with a damp cloth or dunking them in a bathtub — is tedious, time-consuming, and remarkably ineffective for anything beyond a surface-level clean. Water can warp certain blind materials, and improper drying leads to water spots, mildew, and string deterioration. For households with allergies or pets, a surface wipe does almost nothing to remove the allergens embedded in the material itself.

Different Blinds Require Different Approaches

Wood blinds, faux wood blinds, aluminum mini-blinds, vertical blinds, and cellular shades each have different material sensitivities and require different cleaning methods. Applying the wrong product or technique to the wrong blind type can cause warping, discoloration, or permanent damage to the slats or cords. Professional cleaning accounts for the specific material and finishes of each blind type before any cleaning begins.

Clean Blinds Make a Bigger Difference

Beyond the visual improvement — which is significant — clean blinds contribute to better indoor air quality by removing the accumulated dust and allergens that get redistributed every time the blinds are adjusted, or airflow moves through the room. For homeowners who already invest in carpet or rug cleaning, dirty blinds can quietly undermine the space's overall freshness.

Arslanian Bros. Takes the Hassle Out of Blind Cleaning

Arslanian Bros. has been serving Cleveland, OH, homeowners with professional cleaning services since 1959, and our blind cleaning service gets the job done right without the afternoon of frustration. While we are there, we also offer rug cleaning , rug repairs , and tile and grout cleaning to help you tackle the whole home in one visit. Request service today at (216) 271-6888 and let us handle the one chore you have been putting off all year.

The Right Way to Handle a Fabric Sofa Stain

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 23:34:14 GMT

The Right Way to Handle a Fabric Sofa Stain

If you have a fabric sofa, stains are inevitable, and what you do in the first few minutes after a spill makes all the difference. The instinct to grab whatever is nearby and start scrubbing is completely understandable. It is also one of the worst things you can do. So, before you reach for the dish soap or the paper towels, here’s what Arslanian Bros. suggests you do first.

Blot, Never Scrub

The moment a spill happens, resist the urge to rub it. Rubbing spreads the stain outward and pushes it deeper into the fabric fibers, making it significantly harder to remove later. Instead, use a clean, dry white cloth and blot gently from the outside edge of the stain inward. Work slowly and replace the cloth frequently so you lift the stain rather than redistribute it across the fabric.

Know What You Are Dealing With

Not all stains respond to the same treatment, and the wrong approach can permanently set a stain rather than remove it. Water-based stains like juice, coffee, or wine respond differently than oil-based stains from food or lotion. Before applying any cleaning solution, identify the cause of the stain so you can treat it appropriately. If you are unsure, a small amount of cold water on an inconspicuous area is a safer starting point than a chemical cleaner.

Check Your Fabric's Cleaning Code

Most sofas have a tag with a cleaning code that tells you exactly what is safe to use on the fabric. W means water-based cleaners are safe. S means solvent-based cleaners only. WS means either can be used with care. X means professional cleaning only, and ignoring that code can void a warranty or permanently damage the material. If your tag is missing or faded, err on the side of caution and contact a professional before attempting any treatment.

Resist the Internet Rabbit Hole

There is no shortage of home remedy advice online, and some of it is genuinely harmful to upholstery. Hydrogen peroxide can bleach certain fabrics. Dish soap left in the fibers attracts more dirt over time. Club soda is largely a myth. When in doubt, do less rather than more — a stain that has been treated incorrectly is much harder to remove than one that has simply been left alone.

When It Is Time to Call the Professionals

Some stains are beyond the reach of any home remedy, and some fabrics simply should not be touched without professional experience. Arslanian Bros. has been restoring upholstered furniture for homeowners in Cleveland, OH, for decades, and our team knows how to treat even the most stubborn stains without damaging the fabric. In addition to upholstery cleaning , we also offer area rug repair and carpet cleaning to keep your entire home looking its best. Contact us today at 216-271-6888 to request service.

How to Get Rid of Pet Odors in Your Upholstery for Good

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 23:24:04 GMT

How to Get Rid of Pet Odors in Your Upholstery for Good

If you share your home with a dog or cat, you already know the couch belongs to them just as much as it belongs to you. And while the cuddles are worth it, the odors that soak into your upholstery over time are a different story. Sprays and fabric fresheners might mask the smell for a day or two, but they are not solving the problem. If you are ready to actually get rid of pet odors in your furniture — not just cover them up — here is what you need to know.

Why Pet Odors Are So Hard to Eliminate

Pet odors are stubborn for a simple reason: they are not just sitting on the surface of your fabric. Dander, oils from your pet's coat, and accident residue work their way deep into upholstery fibers and the cushion material beneath them. Every time your pet settles in, those odors get pushed further into the fabric. Store-bought sprays treat only the top layer, which is why the smell always seems to come back within days.

The DIY Approach and Its Limits

Baking soda is a popular go-to, and it does absorb some surface odor when left to sit and then vacuumed away. White vinegar diluted with water can also neutralize mild smells on certain fabrics. These methods work reasonably well for very fresh, minor issues — but they are no match for odors that have been building up for months or years. Scrubbing too aggressively can also damage delicate upholstery fibers or push moisture deeper into the cushion, which creates an entirely new problem.

What Professional Cleaning Actually Does

Professional upholstery cleaning gets to the source of the odor rather than covering it. At Arslanian Bros. , our 11-step cleaning process uses the right solutions and equipment for your specific fabric type, breaking down the organic compounds that cause pet odors at the fiber level. The result is not a couch that smells like a cleaning product — it is a couch that simply smells clean. For heavily soiled pieces, treatment may also include deodorizing agents that neutralize rather than mask.

Some Fabrics Need Extra Attention

Not all upholstery responds the same way to pet odors or cleaning methods. Microfiber, velvet, linen, and leather each require a different approach. Using the wrong product or technique on the wrong fabric can cause discoloration, shrinkage, or permanent damage. This is exactly why professional assessment before cleaning matters — a technician can identify your fabric type and recommend the appropriate treatment rather than applying a one-size-fits-all solution.

Ready to Reclaim Your Furniture?

You love your pets, but you should not have to live with the smell. Arslanian Bros. has been helping Cleveland, OH, homeowners restore their upholstered furniture for decades, and we bring that same level of care to every job. Beyond upholstery cleaning, we also offer area rug repair and carpet cleaning to keep every corner of your home fresh and well-maintained. Contact us today at 216-271-6888 to request service and give your furniture the deep clean it deserves.

Does Your Rug Need Replaced or Repaired?

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 19:57:04 GMT

Does Your Rug Need Replaced or Repaired?

It's a question homeowners face more often than you'd think: you've got a rug that's seen better days, and you're not sure whether to invest in a repair or simply start fresh. The good news is that with a little guidance, the answer is usually clearer than it seems. Arslanian Bros . has been helping families care for their rugs since 1959, and we're breaking it down for you.

When is a Repair Worth It?

Not every worn or damaged rug deserves a trip to the curb. In fact, many rugs — especially hand-knotted orientals, Persian rugs, and quality wool pieces — are absolutely worth repairing. If your rug has fraying edges, unraveling fringe, small holes, or isolated damage from a pet or snag, a skilled repair can restore it to great condition and extend its life for years. The older and higher-quality the rug, the stronger the case for repair over replacement.

Why a Replacement Makes More Sense?

On the other hand, some rugs have simply reached the end of the road. If the damage is widespread, the backing has deteriorated, or the rug has been permanently stained or structurally compromised, replacement is often the smarter investment. The same goes for lower-quality machine-made rugs where the cost of repair outweighs the value of the piece itself.

What Are the Benefits of a Deep Clean?

Here's something that surprises a lot of homeowners: what looks like irreversible damage is sometimes just years of built-up dirt and grime. Before you write off a rug entirely, a professional deep cleaning can reveal its true condition, and in many cases, what seemed like a lost cause turns out to be a beautiful rug that just needed some serious attention.

Not Sure? Let the Experts Take a Look

If you're on the fence, the best move is to bring your rug in for a professional evaluation. The Arslanian Bros. team can assess the damage, walk you through your options, and help you make the decision that makes the most sense for your home and your budget. And if replacement is the right call, we have a stunning showroom full of area rugs and fine orientals to help you find the perfect fit.

If you live in the Cleveland, OH, area, contact us at (216) 271-6888 to request your rug services today!

How Rug Cleaning Methods Differ by Material

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 14:02:19 GMT

How Rug Cleaning Methods Differ by Material

Your rug might look like it can handle anything: shoes, snacks, muddy paws, the occasional coffee incident. But rugs are a lot like clothing and require special care. When the wrong method is used, rugs can shrink, bleed, warp, or lose their softness. At Arslanian Bros . , we help homeowners protect their investment by matching the cleaning process to the rug itself, not just the stain on top.

Why Rug Material Changes the Cleaning Plan

Different fibers absorb moisture differently, hold onto soil differently, and react differently to agitation and heat. A quality cleaning starts with identifying the rug type, testing dyes for stability, and choosing the safest approach for deep cleaning without damage. This is especially important for handmade rugs and natural fibers.

Wool Rugs: Gentle, Deep, and Low-Heat

Wool is naturally resilient and soil-resistant, but it also holds water and can be sensitive to high heat or harsh chemicals. Wool rugs do best with thorough dust removal first, since dry soil settles deep into the pile and acts like sandpaper over time. Cleaning typically uses pH-balanced solutions and controlled moisture, followed by careful rinsing and drying to prevent odor, browning, or shrinkage.

Persian and Handmade Rugs: Dye Safety Comes First

Persian rugs and other handmade pieces often use natural dyes and intricate knotting. That makes color testing and controlled cleaning essential. Aggressive scrubbing, overly alkaline cleaners, or excessive moisture can cause dye bleed, fringe damage, or foundation distortion. A proper process focuses on safe washing, thorough rinsing, and drying methods that protect shape and detail.

Synthetic Rugs: Durable, But Not Indestructible

Synthetic fibers like nylon, polypropylene, and polyester are popular because they are stain-resistant and budget-friendly. They can tolerate more agitation than wool, but they can still be damaged by too much heat or the wrong chemistry, especially if they have a latex backing or glued construction. Many synthetic rugs respond well to hot water extraction or low-moisture methods, depending on backing and pile type, with special attention to preventing residue that attracts new dirt.

Clean the Right Way, Keep the Rug Longer

When your rug is cleaned based on its fiber and construction, it lasts longer, looks better, and feels fresher underfoot. If you are in the greater Cleveland area, Arslanian Bros. also provides carpet cleaning , blind cleaning , and rug repair to keep your whole space looking its best. Contact us to request service at (216) 271-6888.

Spring Cleaning Tips To Make Your Home Shine

accounting@localsearchessentials.com (Local Search Essentials) — Thu, 20 Feb 2020 15:31:15 GMT

Spring is almost here, which means it’s time to get your home in tip-top shape. A good, deep spring cleaning is a tradition that not only promotes wellness by keeping your environment clean and organized, it also helps carry the fresh-start feeling brought on by a new year well into the summer.

Start with your windows. Clean the inside and outside of all your windows. Once the light shines into your house, you will be able to see what areas you missed during the wintertime.

As you’ve been hibernating throughout the winter and piling on the sweaters and blankets, there’s a good chance that clutter—and your lists of chores—have been piling up as well. Start small – don’t try to attack your entire house at once. Think about clearing one room, or even one closet, at a time.

When this is complete, sort it out. Go through your space and separate your belongings into categories. Determine the things you will keep on hand, store for later, sell, donate, or throw away.

Once you’ve cleared out the clutter, give your home some much-needed TLC. Empty out your kitchen fridge and thoroughly clean it. Sweep under your large appliances, like the stove and the fridge, and larger furniture pieces, like dressers, desks and the beds. Clean vinyl or wood blinds and take any curtains or drapes to the cleaners. Flip your mattress. Don’t just clean your sheets; wash your pillows and mattress covers as well. After these more thorough tasks, do your usual scrubbing, mopping, dusting, and vacuuming.

Change your filters often. If you are running an AC system through your house, you need to change the filters in the spring and fall. This will help you reduce the amount of dust particles that build up in your home.

Maintain a clean bathroom. This will also allow you to focus on other areas of the house, such as ceilings and closets, that may need a more thorough cleaning job.

Put the spring back in your dirty keyboards with cotton swabs. If certain keys are sticking, or your entire keyboard just doesn’t have the same pop that it used to, chances are dirt and crumbs are the culprits. Your smart devices and tablets most likely need a good cleaning too. Remember to spray the disinfectant spray on a micro-fiber cloth or paper towel first and then wipe the unit!

Most importantly, have the surfaces in your home like your rugs, carpet, and upholstery professionally cleaned . An expert can remove more dirt and allergens than regular cleaning can achieve. Furthermore, regular maintenance will make them last a lifetime.

If it’s warm enough, open the windows and let the fresh air in as you freshen up your home. When your work is done, not only will the sun be shining – your house will too.

Sources:

http://cachevalleyfamilymagazine.com/five-quick-tips-for-spring-cleaning/

https://blog.nationwide.com/spring-cleaning-tips-and-tricks/

Arslanian Brothers are just the best | Five Star Customer Reviews Avon OH

accounting@localsearchessentials.com (Local Search Essentials) — Thu, 06 Feb 2020 14:46:01 GMT

Five Star Customer Reviews for Arslanian Bros.

"Arslanian Brothers are just the best

We feel like we have brand new carpet.

The service technicians were efficient.

I would use them again."

Tara L.

Avon, OH

01/27/2020

Customer Lobby:

https://www.arslanianbros.com/reviews

When you have a free moment and have not done so already, we would love for you to leave a review by clicking the link above. Thank you very much for your time in advance.

A Professional Cleaning Can Extend The Life of Your Rugs and Carpet

accounting@localsearchessentials.com (Local Search Essentials) — Thu, 23 Jan 2020 17:17:54 GMT

Show Some Love to Your Rugs and Carpet

Having a professional cleaning, at the very least annually, on your carpet and rugs is so important. A dirty rug or carpet can have thousands of dust mites living in the dust, and pounds of soil can accumulate underneath and in it every year. Carpet and rugs can contain several indoor contaminants and promote the growth of mold in damp areas which often cause allergies. Because it can be a health hazard, it is important to always keep your home furnishings clean.

Dirt causes a lot of damage to the carpet, it grates against the yarn, making scratches in the fibers and taking away the luster. Dirt trapped eventually goes down to the carpet backing and deep within in your rugs and scrapes away the fibers, wearing them out. High-traffic areas will look dull and faded compared to the rest of your home.

One major benefit of a professional rug and carpet cleaning service is that it helps extend the life of your furnishings. Removing this build-up of dirt and debris will help improve the longevity of the carpet or rugs as dust and other debris are more likely to adhere to a dirty rug or carpet than a clean one. Homeowners can also help decrease the build-up of debris in their area rugs and carpet between cleanings by vacuuming regularly.

By keeping your carpet and oriental rugs consistently maintained and having them professionally cleaned annually, you can increase the appearance and longevity of your furnishings while contributing to a healthier environment. It is a great time to have a professional cleaning to remove the dirt and debris that has settled into your home this season.

If you are interested in having your rugs and carpet professionally cleaned, contact Arslanian Bros. today!

Source:

https://www.progreencarpetnc.com/tips-to-extend-the-life-of-your-carpet/

Extremely Pleased | Five Star Customer Reviews Concord Twp OH

accounting@localsearchessentials.com (Local Search Essentials) — Thu, 09 Jan 2020 14:27:47 GMT

Five Star Customer Reviews for Arslanian Bros.

“Extremely pleased

We have used other carpet cleaners in the past. Don’t remember being satisfied. They usually left some stains claiming they couldn’t be removed. Not the case with Arslanian Bros. Everything looks like new. I have recommended them to others.”

Jim Y.

Concord Twp. , OH

01/04/2020

Customer Lobby:

https://www.arslanianbros.com/reviews

When you have a free moment and have not done so already, we would love for you to leave a review by clicking the link above. Thank you very much for your time in advance.

Cleaning Up After The Holidays

accounting@localsearchessentials.com (Local Search Essentials) — Thu, 19 Dec 2019 16:37:46 GMT

The holidays are a joyous time with family and friends, but that seasonal glow can fade quickly when you're faced with the aftermath: a house to clean up once all your guests have left. Getting your place back into shape can be a daunting task, but we've got a few smart tips to help you do it in time for the new year.

Clean up after houseguests.

Give your house’s surfaces a deep clean. Wash all your linens. Vacuum carpets, floors, and baseboards to give yourself a fresh start. Clean out your refrigerator - eat the last of those yummy leftovers and then clean and store your leftover containers.

Strip the Christmas tree carefully.

Use as much care taking your tree down as you did putting it up to save you some headaches next year.

Rubbing alcohol can remove sap from washable clothing and knit gloves because it acts as a solvent. For clothes, even a down coat, saturate the area with alcohol, let sit for a minute, then launder in warm water with regular detergent. Heat sets stains, so be sure all the sap is gone before using the dryer. Repeat the process if any remains.

Check your carpet, rugs and furniture for stains.

The longer they set, the more difficult they will be to remove. If you spot any, use a spray bottle to lightly apply a mixture of warm water and mild dishwashing liquid. Blot with a paper towel and continue spraying and blotting until the stain is removed. Rinse with clear water and blot again. Fluff the pile and allow it to dry. To be safe and to save time, contact a professional carpet, rug and upholstery cleaning expert.

Use this time to get rid of what you don't need.

Did you get some great new gifts for your kitchen or other places in the house? That's great! But you may not need two or three chip and dip sets in your cabinet. Either discard old ones or donate them. Have kids? Recruit them to help by creating a race to see who can gather their toys first. Store toys that are of no interest at the moment and rotate or bring them out every once in a while to keep their spark.

Therefore, the holidays can do a number on your home! Between house guests, holiday feasts, and kids on school breaks, your house probably needs some TLC. Thankfully, we have you covered. Call Arslanian Bros. today to have us help with your post-holiday cleaning needs!

Sources:

https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/institute/a23816/cleaning-up-after-christmas/

https://www.cleaninginstitute.org/cleaning-tips/holiday-cleaning/cleaning-after-holidays

Give Thanks By Leaving A Review | Share Your Thanks This Thanksgiving

accounting@localsearchessentials.com (Local Search Essentials) — Thu, 14 Nov 2019 14:24:02 GMT

A kind word and your feedback mean the world to us. #givethanks

We would just like to say thank you for being a part of our family. We are very grateful for your continued patronage because we wouldn’t be here without loyal customers like you. Please give thanks this holiday season. A kind word and your feedback mean the world to us. We love hearing from our customers and would not want to miss the chance to improve our services. The process is simple and it only takes a few minutes of your time. Click Here to leave a review in Customer Lobby for Arslanian Bros. and tell us a little bit about your experience.

We would appreciate your feedback!

Removing Pet Stains and Odors

accounting@localsearchessentials.com (Local Search Essentials) — Thu, 31 Oct 2019 14:06:35 GMT

For “new” stains (those that are still wet):

Soak up as much of the urine as possible with a combination of newspaper and paper towels. The more fresh urine you can remove before it dries, especially from carpet, the easier it will be to remove the odor. Place a thick layer of paper towels on the wet spot, and cover that with a thick layer of newspaper. If possible, put newspaper under the soiled area as well. Stand on this padding for about a minute. Remove the padding, and repeat the process until the area is barely damp.
If possible, put the fresh, urine-soaked paper towel in the area where it belongs —your cat’s litter box or your dog’s designated outdoor “bathroom area.” This will help remind your pet that eliminating isn’t a “bad” behavior as long as it’s done in the right place.
Rinse the “accident zone” thoroughly with clean, cool water. After rinsing, remove as much of the water as possible by blotting or by using a wet vac.

For stains that have already set:

Consider renting an extractor or wet vac to remove all traces of heavy stains in carpeting (get one from a local hardware store). This machine works much like a vacuum cleaner and is efficient and economical. Extracting/wet vac machines do the best job of forcing clean water through your carpet and then forcing the dirty water back out. When you use these machines or cleaners, carefully follow the instructions. Don’t use any chemicals with these machines; they work much better with plain water.
Use a high-quality pet odor neutralizer once the area is really clean (available at pet supply stores). Be sure to read and follow the cleaner’s directions for use, including testing the cleaner on a small, hidden portion of fabric first to be sure it doesn’t stain.
Try any good carpet stain remover if the area still looks stained after it’s completely dry from extracting and neutralizing.
Avoid using steam cleaners to clean urine odors from carpet or upholstery. The heat will permanently set the stain and the odor by bonding the protein into any man-made fibers.
Avoid using cleaning chemicals , especially those with strong odors such as ammonia or vinegar. From your pet’s perspective, these don’t effectively eliminate or cover the urine odor and may actually encourage your pet to reinforce the urine scent mark in that area.
Neutralizing cleaners won’t work until you’ve rinsed every trace of the old cleaner from the carpet if you’ve previously used cleaners or chemicals of any kind on the area. Even if you haven’t used chemicals recently, any trace of a non-protein-based substance will weaken the effect of the enzymatic cleaner. The cleaner will use up its “energy” on the old cleaners, instead of on the protein stains you want removed.
Your job will be more difficult if urine has soaked down into the padding underneath your carpet . In some cases, you may need to take the drastic step of removing and replacing that portion of the carpet and padding.

Source: www.humanesociety.org

To view the entire article, click here !

The Ultimate Fall Cleaning Checklist

accounting@localsearchessentials.com (Local Search Essentials) — Thu, 03 Oct 2019 14:11:50 GMT

When the days start getting shorter and your thoughts turn to sitting around the fireplace instead of standing around the outdoor grill, it's time to invest a weekend on fall cleaning.

Some elbow grease now will make Christmas entertaining easier and keep your home safer and more secure, too. These five important autumn chores will help get you prepared for winter and save you from having to play catch up during those short winter weekends when there never seems to be enough time or energy to get things done before it gets dark outside.

1. How to clean cobwebs

It's spider season! That means one thing for your walls, ceilings, and any other crevices that these eight-legged creatures can possibly find their way into - cobwebs.

Grab a long feather duster, and start up-high, swiping over walls and ceilings. Don't forget the corners of the room, and also around light fittings (you may need a ladder for this).

2. Get your windows sparkling clean

As the heating comes on in Autumn, condensation often appears around the windows. It's important to give frames some TLC to prevent them becoming damaged from excess moisture.

Outside windows typically have more dirt and stains. Start by rinsing the windows with the hose, then fill a bucket with clean water and add a few drops of liquid dish soap. Using a soft microfiber cloth, go over the surface of the window. For higher windows, use a sponge mop (or a soft cotton or microfiber mop) on a pole. Rinse thoroughly with the hose. Although it may seem like an unnecessary chore, you'll be amazed at what a difference clean glass makes to the amount of natural light in your home.

3. How to clean skirting boards

Once you've done a thorough dusting around the house, it's time to turn your attention to another, often-neglected area - skirting boards.

If you keep on top of your skirting boards, they won't need anything more than a quick once-over. Our favorite way to do this is with the vacuum. Pop a soft brush attachment on and gently vacuum over them.

If you have allowed your skirting boards to gather dust, you may need to wipe them over with a slightly-dampened microfibre cloth too.

4. Autumn is a great time to clean upholstery

It's officially home-cinema season. Make sure your surroundings are cosy and clean by giving upholstery a refresh .

If your sofa is smelling a little strange, we like to vacuum over upholstery using a soft brush, then sprinkling baking soda over the area. Leave for 15 minutes, then vacuum once more to leave your living room furniture looking and smelling lovely.

However, if you want a really thorough clean, it's best to call in a professional.

5. Refresh your carpets and rugs

A carpet cleaner 's equipment provides results far superior to anything achievable with a DIY method. They will be able to really get into the pile of the carpet, removing germs and debris that aren't visible to the human eye.

An expert rug washer’s in-plant rug cleaning facility is highly recommended for the cleaning of Oriental and loose woven rugs. They should not be cleaned on location like your wall to wall carpeting.

You spend major time indoors when the weather gets cold, so the more you do now to clean and arrange your space, the more pleasant it will be to hunker down for the duration when the weatherman starts talking about frost on the pumpkin.

Sources:

https://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/household-hints-tips/cleaning-organizing/5-tips-for-cleaning-for-fall.htm

https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-clean-windows/

https://experthometips.com/autumn-cleaning-checklist

Define Your Space with an Area Rug

accounting@localsearchessentials.com (Local Search Essentials) — Thu, 19 Sep 2019 14:11:09 GMT

Most homes today are built with the idea of “open concept” where one room flows seamlessly into another. This can make it hard to define the individual areas of your home. You can define your space with an area rug and still have your rooms transition smoothly from one room to another, here is how.

Your Entryway

When your entryway doesn’t have a foyer you can easily create the illusion of one by using an area rug. You can find a rug that contrasts nicely with your flooring, make sure it is made of durable material. If you want to build on the space add a small bench or chair.

Your Living Room

Homes today have much bigger rooms than they did in the past and with open concept homes it is hard to put together a conversation area that is intimate and inviting. An area rug can help create this space, put down a patterned rug it will draw the eye from the big open spaces and it will help make your room feel warmer and cozier.

Your Dining Room

Homes today have also really moved away from the traditional dining room, you can use an area rug to create a dining area. When you don’t have walls or a light fixture to define the dining area you can put something durable underneath your table and chairs, it also needs to be big enough that you can comfortably push your chair back when you leave the table.

High Traffic Areas

Using area rugs on high traffic areas can serve two purposes, it can define the traffic patterns in your home and it can protect your flooring. If you put down heavy duty or washable rugs in the foyer or in front of your patio doors you can extend the life of your carpet or existing floors. It also defines where one room ends and where another one begins.

The trend for the past two decades has been open concept design both with renovations and new construction. Using an area rug makes your space warmer, it helps you transition from one room to another. If you live in a rental property then an area rug is an affordable way to add color to your room without making drastic changes like painting. You can find affordable area rugs for every area of your home online. There are thousands of interior design ideas using area rugs on Pinterest. Use the area rug to define your style and make your home your own.

Source: http://www.jamesmurty.com/define-your-space-with-an-area-rug/

Wet Area Rugs…What Do I Do?

accounting@localsearchessentials.com (Local Search Essentials) — Thu, 13 Jun 2019 04:00:00 GMT

If your rug has become sopping wet from plumbing problems, a leaking roof, as a result of firefighting or anything else, you must do the best you can to manage your wet area rugs. Even though the water and the rug are dirty, your priority most likely will be to get the rug dry:

If the floor has been saturated, however, removing the area rug completely is the best approach to allow the floor underneath to dry out. Never allow the wet area rug to sit on the floor for a long period of time because it will do more damage to the rug itself and the floor surface beneath.
If possible, get the rug to a wooden deck, a concrete patio or even a sidewalk. If you have a squeegee on a long handle, use it to squeegee out the water, pushing in the direction of the pile. In a pinch, you can use the back of a heavy garden rake as a substitute for a squeegee. Get as much water out of the rug as possible. If you cannot get the rug to a flat, outdoor surface, you may vacuum it with a Shop Vac or other wet-or-dry type vacuum, pulling as much water as you can from the rug.
At this point, the rug is still damp but no longer sopping wet. Finish drying it however you can. If you have good weather, you can dry it in the sun. If you must, dry it indoors in a warm room, elevating it, if necessary, to let air circulate around it. A fan trained on the rug will help.
After squeegeeing or vacuuming it, you may now roll the rug without folding it and stand it on end. At your earliest convenience, have the rug washed by a professional rug cleaning company.

If steps 1-4 are not possible because the area rug is too large, and you’ve experienced a more extensive water damage situation, seek the services of a professional cleaning company like Arslanian Bros. and rely on their expert advice to properly care for your area rug.

Source: https://urlzs.com/jmNQn

Choosing the Best Area Rug for Your Space

accounting@localsearchessentials.com (Local Search Essentials) — Thu, 16 May 2019 04:00:00 GMT

There is good reason an area rug should carpet a room. They’re practical, providing cushion, comfort, and warmth over a concrete, tile or wood floor. But they also provide artistic value to a room’s design. Considered artwork for the floor, which acts as the frame, size does matter — and it’s often a big concern for the homeowner unsure of how to create that well-balanced space.

So designers say start with the area rug first. From its design, you can choose colors to paint your walls and find throw pillows and paintings to complete the decor. Just make sure to follow this rule of thumb: The area rug should be a minimum of six inches and no more than two feet away from the wall. When you take into consideration the different uses, shapes and design preferences, however, other factors weigh in as well.

Source: https://bit.ly/2RucwHA

Cleaning Your Home In Less Than An Hour

accounting@localsearchessentials.com (Local Search Essentials) — Thu, 02 May 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Sometimes you don’t have enough time to clean your house thoroughly. You work long hours, have other things to do when you are home and simply can’t get around to household tasks that seem to keep piling up. Learn how to get a clean house quickly now!

Source: https://bit.ly/2J5rzWW

Rug Care Tips: Preventing Mildew and Dry Rot in Rugs

accounting@localsearchessentials.com (Local Search Essentials) — Thu, 21 Mar 2019 04:00:00 GMT

When rugs stay wet too long, they become mildewed and, eventually, suffer dry rot. The classic example is dry rot caused by a potted plant placed on a rug. The typical result is a horribly rotted circular area in a carpet that is otherwise in good condition. Don’t even think about putting a potted plant on a rug. No matter how clever you are or if you use a glazed pot or saucer, it may not work. Whether you put a vapor barrier between the saucer and the rug, the rug will get wet. Most importantly, it will stay wet. And unbeknownst to you and will become a rotten mess in an area about one foot in diameter.

Another typical situation comes up when rugs are stored poorly. Therefore, when they are stored in a garage and become wet without anyone realizing, this can become an issue. Even though dry rot is not inevitable in such cases, a mildew smell is, and sometimes the smell of mildew simply cannot be removed. I have seen several occasions when moisture under a house has caused rugs on the floor above to mildew.

Caring for Your Rugs

Please do not worry needlessly, though. A little water on a rug, or even a lot of water, will not cause it to mildew unless the rug stays wet too long. For instance, when a rug is stepped onto after a shower or bath rarely are hurt by water because they have time to dry out between bath times. And don’t panic if you spill a glass of water on a rug. Lastly, just dry it as well as you can with towels.

Unfortunately, besides causing mildew and dry rot, water sometimes causes dyes in rugs to bleed or run. All you can do in this situation is to get the rug dry as soon as possible and to send it to an expert rug washer . If a rug is just a little wet, as from a spilled glass of water, do what I suggested above. Merely soak up as much water as possible with a towel or paper towel and everything will probably be just fine. If you are worried about the floor underneath, elevate the wet spot until it dries.

When All Else Fails

A rug that is thoroughly wet is another matter. The goal is to dry it before it mildews in about four or five days. If you have a Shopvac or other vacuum that will take in water, vacuum out as much water as you can. If you have sunlight and a place to lay the rug, open it and let it finish drying outdoors. Or, if you know that the rug is dirty as well as wet, dry it enough so that you can get it to an Oriental rug cleaning specialist .

Source: https://goo.gl/BkxUZN

Importance of Clean Furnishings with Professional Rug and Carpet Cleaning Services

accounting@localsearchessentials.com (Local Search Essentials) — Thu, 21 Feb 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Of all the furnishings in a home, your rug and carpet experience the most direct traffic which contributes to dirt accumulation and general wear and tear. It is important to keep your rugs and carpet clean and well maintained to not only keep it looking new, but also to increase its longevity.

Rid Your Home of Harmful Allergens and Bacteria

Your carpet and area rugs serve an important purpose in the home. They also trap allergens, bacteria, and other particles by acting as giant filters. This keeps harmful contaminants in your carpets and rugs and out of the air you breathe.

But here’s the catch—just like with any filter, your carpet and area rugs become full. If not cleaned regularly, your furnishings can actually be breeding grounds for bacteria. As a result, this can contribute to asthma and chronic allergies. Yikes!

By having your carpet, upholstery, and area rugs cleaned at least every 6 months, you can be sure your home is cleaner and healthier.

If you have pets, carpet and area rug cleaning is recommended more frequently—about every 3 months.

Carpet & Rug Cleaning Can Help Prevent Mold Growth

Especially in areas with high humidity levels, dirty carpets and rugs are at high risk of developing mold growth. In precipitous weather, moisture frequently gets tracked into the home. Therefore, this can sink deep in the carpet fibers if not dried and vacuumed immediately.

Having your carpets and area rugs cleaned regularly can prevent mold and mildew growth, because professional rug and carpet cleaners have high-powered drying tools that annihilate moisture. By eliminating moisture, you can prevent mold growth that can be harmful to your health if ignored for too long.

Extends the Life of Your Rugs and Carpet

One major benefit of a professional rug and carpet cleaning service is that it helps extend the life of your furnishings. Over time, dirt, dust, allergens, and other debris accumulate in the carpet. This gets embedded within the fibers which can eventually cause the fibers to split and deteriorate. Removing this built up of dirt and debris will help improve the longevity of the carpet. As dust and other debris are more likely to adhere to a dirty rug or carpet than a clean one.

Professional carpet and rug cleaners typically use cleaning methods involving hot water extraction. This method can effectively remove the debris from deep within the fibers and leave the carpet sanitized. Homeowners can also help decrease the build-up of debris in their area rugs and carpet between cleanings by vacuuming regularly.

Keeping your carpet and rugs consistently maintained is so important for your family’s health. Having them professionally cleaned annually, you can increase the appearance and longevity of your furnishings while contributing to a healthier environment. The spring season is a great time to have your carpet professionally cleaned to remove the dirt and debris that has settled in your home all winter.

If you are interested in having your rugs and carpet professionally cleaned contact Arslanian Bros. today!

3 Home Health Benefits to Carpet Cleaning

accounting@localsearchessentials.com (Local Search Essentials) — Thu, 24 Jan 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Firstly, carpet cleaning can improve the appearance of your home. It can also extend the life of your carpet. But perhaps, most importantly, a vital and valuable benefit from the process is improving you and your family’s health.

According to the American Lung Association , if members of your household suffer from conditions that can affect their breathing, such as snoring or asthma, it’s especially crucial that you vacuum your carpets at least three times a week.

Beyond vacuuming regularly, you may also benefit from having your carpets professionally cleaned at least once a year. If you’re not fully convinced of the benefits of professional carpet cleaning, consider the following top three ways the process leads to a healthier home:

1. Carpet cleaning eliminates trapped pollutants.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency , a dirty carpet can retain several sources of indoor air pollutants, including pet dander, cockroach allergens, lead, particle pollution, and everyday dirt and dust. Toxic airborne gases can adhere to these particles and also get trapped within the carpet.

Therefore, these toxic gases can be released through everyday activities. During activities such as vacuuming and walking across the carpet, which can cause them to contaminate the air in your home. Professional carpet cleaning services kills these bacteria through special shampooing formulas and can remove deeply trapped pollutants with high-powered vacuums.

2. Carpet cleaning can clear out dust mite infestations.

Many homes have dust mite infestations, yet most homeowners aren’t aware of the infestation, because the creatures are microscopic. Dust mites themselves aren’t allergens, but they often leave behind feces and body fragments which are.

Because of the microscopic size of these particles, they can easily be inhaled when the area is disturbed, which can exacerbate allergies. Many professional carpet cleaning companies utilize a technique known as steam cleaning when performing carpet maintenance work. Steam cleaning exposes your carpet to high temperatures that dust mites can’t survive.

3. Carpet cleaning can help prevent mold growth.

Some fabrics are particularly sensitive to water immersion, and/or to the heat and agitation that takes place inside most commercial washing machines. But because dry cleaning drums tumble more slowly and gently – and because the process does not use water – your delicate clothes experience less wear & tear. Why risk damaging that expensive suit, dress, or tablecloth?

Especially in areas with high humidity levels, dirty carpets are at a high risk of developing mold growth when exposed to moisture. In precipitous weather, moisture frequently gets tracked into the home and can sink deep in the carpet fibers if not dried and vacuumed immediately.

Having your carpet cleaned regularly can prevent mold and mildew growth. This is because professional carpet cleaners have high-powered drying tools that annihilate moisture. By eliminating moisture, you can prevent mold growth that can be harmful to your health if ignored for too long.

Source: https://goo.gl/Cg3apF

The Big 3 Holiday Spills

accounting@localsearchessentials.com (Local Search Essentials) — Thu, 06 Dec 2018 05:00:00 GMT

With holiday entertaining in mind, we thought the following tips may be of interest to you. It seems that when food and beverages are served, spills on your carpet and rugs often follow. If you’ve dealt with the resulting spots – during or after a holiday gathering – you’re in good company. Our top three holiday spills and cures are listed below.

Spill #3 – Gravy

People often ask: How does gravy get on the floor anyway? Doesn’t everyone pay attention when passing the gravy boat?

Gravy somehow finds its way to your carpet and area rugs, and gravy has edged out whipped cream to make it onto our list of holiday spills.

Spill #2 – Coffee

Coffee and “holiday party jostles” go together like cream and sugar, so coffee drips are almost expected. We have two cures for coffee spills, one for coffee and one for coffee with cream.

Spill #1 – Red Wine

Between making toasts, friendly hugs and general high spirits, spilling wine seems to be a part of every good holiday get-together. Red wine can leave a permanent stain on textiles, caused by both naturally occurring color and added dyes. (White wine spills are just as common … they just don’t become obvious until they become sticky and darker as they start attracting soil.)

Knowing what to do can help alleviate your holiday gathering “carpet spill stress”. Here’s what you need to know:

Gravy

Gravy and whipped cream spills share similarities in how they are handled:

Spills with a heavier consistency like creams, butter or gravy can sit on top of the fiber for a short time before soaking into the carpet nap. If the spill is still on the nap and not in the nap, work from the edge to the center using a dull knife, spoon or spatula to get under the goo and remove it before it sinks in.
Keep transferring what you pick up to a container or disposable towel. Removing semi-solids in this way will make removal of what’s left a lot simpler.
Apply warm water. At this point making the last of the spilled residue thinner makes it easier to remove.
Blot up the warm water and residual gravy using absorbent paper or cotton towels.
If any residue remains, mix a mild detergent solution: ½ teaspoon liquid dishwashing detergent in one cup of warm water.
Apply the mild detergent solution.
Blot until you no longer detect a transfer of moisture.
Apply warm water to rinse.
Blot.

At this point you may want to fold a pad of whitepaper or cotton towels and place them over the spill, then add weight. Change absorbent pad as necessary. Just make sure the weight will not transfer color to the carpet as water is drawn into the toweling.

If the gravy has dried, use the same dull-edged tool to break the residue up and vacuum. Sticky residue can be treated starting with the addition of a mild detergent solution.

Coffee

Blot until there is no more liquid being absorbed into white, absorbent paper or cotton towels.
If coffee color remains, apply warm water.
Blot up the warm water using paper or cotton towels.
If color remains, use the detergent solution noted above (½ teaspoon liquid dishwashing detergent in one cup of warm water).
Blot until you no longer detect a transfer of color and moisture.
If color remains, mix 1/3 cup of white vinegar with 2/3 cup of water to make a mild acidic solution. The acid solution can work to make the stain less visible.
Apply the mild acid solution.
Blot.

If the coffee contains cream, it may be necessary to apply a protein-dissolving enzyme. Enzyme products are available at most supermarkets; make sure the product is appropriate for the fiber content of your carpet. Apply the enzyme product, blot, apply water to rinse, and blot again.

Red Wine

As with coffee, blot the spill to remove as much liquid as possible.
Skip applying water and go right to applying the detergent solution.
Blot, apply water, and blot again.
If the stain remains, mix 1 tablespoon of household ammonia with a 1/2 cup of warm water. Ammonia can help release coffee dyes from the carpet fiber.
Apply the ammonia solution to the coffee stained area.
Blot with white absorbent paper or cotton towels until you no longer detect a transfer of color and moisture.
Apply the mild acid solution (1/3 cup of white vinegar with 2/3 cup of water) and blot. The acid solution can work to make the stain less visible.
Apply clear water and blot.

Heard the online tip about getting red wine out using white wine? It can work, as wine contains acetic acid. Wine is just a lot more expensive than white vinegar.

Additional tips for all carpet/rug spot removal:

For removing spills on any rug or carpet, remove as much of the spill as possible before adding water or cleaning solutions. For these stains and those that have sat for a while, professional help will be needed. Call us today or visit our website at www.arslanianbros.com.
With all stain removal, think blot, don’t rub. Rubbing a spot can distort the fiber, so even if you get the spill out you could be left with a texture-distorted, fuzzy area.
A small trigger sprayer can be used to apply any of these solutions and will help control the amount of liquid being applied to your carpet.
If you happen to have a wet-vac or home carpet spotting machine, you can use it in place of blotting. Most of these machines are more efficient at putting water down than they are at picking water up, so spend more time using the vacuum than adding water.

Source: https://www.daburns.com/blog/blog/carpet-spot-removal/the-big-3-holiday-spills

Nine Tips for Maintaining Oriental Rugs

accounting@localsearchessentials.com (Local Search Essentials) — Thu, 12 Apr 2018 04:00:00 GMT

Oriental rugs create an atmosphere of upscale beauty, artistry and elegance in your home that can’t be achieved with the average rug. Although these rugs set a high aesthetic standard, they also require a high standard care. Here are nine tips for maintaining oriental rugs.

If you have been looking for ways to better maintain your Oriental rug, consider the following helpful tips:

1. Rotate regularly

Although some experts claim that you only need to rotate your rug every one to two years, it is usually best to shoot for rotating every one to two months, if the rug is located in a high traffic area. Doing so will allow for more evenly distributed wear, which will give your rug a more uniform look that will help maintain both appearance and value.

2. Block sunlight

In regards to maintaining oriental rugs in your home or business, over time, sunlight can cause the dye in your Oriental rug to fade dramatically. To prevent premature fading, you should always block sunlight from hitting the rug as often as you can. If this measure is impossible, you should make sure to rotate your rug as frequently as possible to ensure more uniform fading.

3. Flip the rug

Most Oriental rugs have fringes on the end that can become twisted and tangled very easily. It’s important that you avoid combing the fringe to release these tangles, since this can cause damage to the natural fibers of the fringe. Instead, flip the rug end over end to allow the fringe to straighten out more naturally.

This can be done by grabbing one end of the carpet and walking it over the other end. In addition to this process, you should also shake the rug gently to help straighten out the fringe.

4. Vacuum

Although all rugs will require vacuuming, it’s especially important that you regularly vacuum your Oriental rug to prevent the natural fibers from becoming packed down by excess traffic. It is usually best to turn off the beater bar when vacuuming your Oriental rug to prevent runs or tears in the delicate fibers.

5. Spot clean

Stains can easily develop if you don’t immediately spot clean a spill once it occurs. First, you should dab the stain with a dry cloth to soak up all excess liquid. Do not use soap, bleach, or other common cleaning products on your Oriental rug, since this can damage the fibers.

Instead, use only water to cleanse the stain. If water doesn’t remove the stain completely, it is best to consult a professional who specializes in cleaning Oriental rugs to ensure safe and effective removal of the stain.

6. Utilize padding

When you place padding beneath your Oriental rug, it helps to keep it stabilized, protect the shape of the rug, and reduce wrinkling. This not only enhances the value of the rug, but also makes them safer and more comfortable to walk on.

7. Change the pathway

To prevent overly wearing down one region of the rug, you should rearrange your furniture to create new pathways every six months or so. This will allow for more even wear, increasing the lifespan of the rug.

8. Professional washing

Experts recommend having your Oriental rug professionally washed every three to five years to prevent dirt and soil buildup and to fully restore the rug’s natural fibers. With the help of a professional rug cleaner , you can extend the life of the rug and enjoy better comfort and quality throughout your use.

9. Air it out

Moisture buildup on your rug can have devastating effects in the form of mold and mildew growth. To prevent buildup and reduce the presence of odor, hang your Oriental rug out to dry outside for a few hours every six months, or every time your rug comes in contact with moisture.

Source: https://goo.gl/bMsmhP

Preventing Wear And Tear From Damaging Your Heirloom Oriental Rug

accounting@localsearchessentials.com (Local Search Essentials) — Thu, 09 Nov 2017 05:00:00 GMT

Sun Damage

Most rug dyes are quite resistant to sun fading or bleaching. But let’s be real, sun means only one thing for carpets and rugs—sun fading. Ultraviolet rays are a powerful force of Nature. A rug will likely fade over time if used for years in a very sunny area. Consider placing your heirloom Oriental rug out of direct sunlight. Also, close the drapes while you are at work and try to turn the rug end-for-end once a year to even out possible color changes.

Uneven Wear

An heirloom Oriental rug should be rotated once every year to even out wear and color change. Try not to use a rug on a very uneven floor. An area of the floor that is raised (a loose floorboard, a transition strip from one flooring material to another, etc.) causes the part of the rug that covers it to wear much more quickly than other areas of the rug.

To Move a Rug

When you move a big rug to adjust its position, there is a better way than just to pull with brute force on the fringe or edge. A simple trick is to roll the rug up. Start by rolling from the short end of the rug so that the length of the roll is as short as possible. If storing the rug, make sure to have it professionally cleaned first before wrapping the rug for storage . If the rug is not cleaned prior to storage, it will be far more susceptible to moth infestation. Any particulate within in the pile will act like glass against the delicate wool fibers.

To Lay a Rug Flat

If an heirloom Oriental rug has been folded for shipping, there may be wrinkles or creases when you lay it down. To flatten them out, first determine which way the nap lays (rub your hand across the pile in the direction of the fringe: the pile will feel smooth one way and will roughen up when rubbed in the opposite direction). Stand at the end of the rug with the nap running toward you. Roll the rug up, then slowly unroll and smooth it down along the way. Persistent wrinkles should be attended to by a professional rug repair and restoration expert . If not cared for properly, premature wear along the ridges made by the wrinkles can result in lasting damage. Some rugs have wrinkles “built in” as the rug is woven-try not to buy one of these!

Rug Pads

Not only will a rug pad extend the life of your rug, pads under a heirloom Oriental rug can prevent sliding, tripping on the edges, from creasing and provide comfort under foot. According to expert interior designers, rug pads can also help with sound reduction. A pad should be about an inch smaller than the rug all the way around (not counting the fringe) so that the pad will not show beneath the rug. Pads can be made of materials like rubber, felt, polyester, or one of a number of synthetic foams.

We hope this article had some useful tips and tricks in helping to prevent wear and tear from damaging your treasured heirloom Oriental rug prematurely.

Sources:
https://jacobsenrugs.com/blog/caring-for-your-oriental-rug

www.fcnews.net/2013/07/16571/

blog.lexingtonorientalrugs.com/2012/01/03/folding-rugs-for-storage-and-shipping/

Upholstery Cleaning: Why It Should Be on Your Home Upkeep List

accounting@localsearchessentials.com (Local Search Essentials) — Thu, 21 Sep 2017 04:00:00 GMT

It can be hard to keep track of everything when it comes to keeping your home maintained and clean. Creating an upkeep list which includes all of those little random jobs that need be done, is a great way to stay on top of things. You can split things into daily, weekly, monthly, and bi-monthly groupings, to help you keep track of everything.

You may already have a list or you may have thought about it in the past, no matter where you are at with your home upkeep list the chances are you may not have thought about regular upholstery cleaning.

Adding Upholstery Cleaning to Your Home Upkeep List

There are a few reasons for having your upholstery cleaning completed on a regular basis, here are some reasons you may want to consider:

Upholstery easily collects dust mites, pollen, pet dander, and other allergens. Regular upholstery cleaning can help reduce the total amount of allergens in your home.
When it comes to health allergens are not the only things to worry about with your furnishing. Bacteria can also take hold in the cracks and crevices of your furnishing. This bacteria will not only leave your furniture smelling bad, but it can also set off a chain of continuous illness for those living in your home. Regular cleaning will make sure that the bacteria are killed and your family is not at risk.
When furnishing is just left to its own devices, it can become grimy and dirty. You may notice that the colors look faded and your furnishings no longer look like they did when you first purchased them. Regular upholstery cleaning can keep your fabrics and furnishings looking like new. Getting rid of the dirt and dust can bring back the original look and feel of your furnishings.
Repeatedly replacing furniture can become a costly exercise. When you or a professional take care of your furniture on a regular basis, you can extend your furniture’s life span. This can save you money in the long run.

The Best Way to Clean Upholstery

These are the main reasons why regularly having your upholstery cleaning completed is a good idea. You may now be wondering what the best way to keep your furniture clean is. Often it is a good idea to have a professional do the work for you, you can even schedule your upholstery cleaning for the same time you have your carpets cleaned. Professional upholstery cleaners have the right equipment to clean and sanitize your upholstery without damaging the materials.

If you are looking for a team of upholstery cleaning professionals that can help keep your home healthy and your furniture looking like new, contact the team at Arslanian Bros . We have been helping homeowners keep their carpets and furnishings clean for over seven decades.

Beginner's Tips on Identifying Authentic Handmade Oriental Rugs

accounting@localsearchessentials.com (Local Search Essentials) — Thu, 11 May 2017 04:00:00 GMT

It is not a simple task for normal folks not trained in identifying rugs to know the distinction between an authentic handmade Oriental rug and a machine-made rug. Handwoven and hand knotted rugs are also known as Oriental rugs and are mostly collectibles due to their quality. The quality of Oriental rugs hugely depends on the yarns’ quality, dyes used and knot count among other factors.

You will find rugs knotted by hand are made through a loom specially designed and knotted through the use of the hand. Hand knotted oriental rugs have been made for centuries through an ancient art that can only be admired. The loom’s size depends on the rug’s size with the weaving carried out moving from the bottom going up to the top. The weaver of the rug usually interweaves the “knots” into the rug’s groundwork, which are hand tied, something that makes the rug’s pile. It is a very time consuming and a tedious operation.

Changes in rug color

It is also easy to note some slight changes in color that make thin or thick stripes when it comes to a handmade rug. Such is the result of dyes used to change the wool during weaving or just the way the wool’s colors age due to the atmosphere, light, and washing. Most of the color changes can be seen in the rug’s background color known as abrash. It is hard to find such circumstances in rugs made by machines.

Wool pile and warp

It is worth noting handmade rugs in most cases have wool pile used to weave them. A rug made by a machine is mostly made through the use of a polyester or nylon pile while weaving is very uniform and close. Also for any authentic Oriental rug, on the rug’s back, you will find white thread weaves from one end of the fringe to the other called the warp.

Visual rug differences

There is always a very strong difference between a handmade and machine-made rug visually. This is apparent especially on the back of a machine-made rug which is very distinct in terms of appearance to a handmade rug’s back. You will find the design of the machine-made rug’s back not as colorful as the back of the hand-woven Oriental rug.

While the machine-made rug has its edges machine overstitched and a fringe applied, the handmade Oriental rug’s fringe runs throughout the length of the rug which is called the warp. The machine-made rug has overstitch patterns running across its back and distinguishing individual knots appearing on the back are not easy to find. In fact, for the machine-made rug, the overstitch construction is generally what keeps the pile material held together. This means that the fringe is applied on a machine-made rug once it has been completed while the hand-woven Oriental rug has its fringe as a part of warp strings as they leave the handmade rug’s end.

You can turn towards the front part of the rug and peruse the designs intently. Essentially, the design should never be of the same shape and size from one opposite end to the other end of the potentially handmade Oriental rug. Also, the design patterns will not always be perfect either. This unevenness is something that is clear in most Oriental rugs that are much older and is a sign of authenticity and should not be mistaken for a poorly done rug. Machine-made rugs usually contain same pattern sizes all around and variations are not really visible. However, machine-made imitations do have uneven patterns but this is less common.

Rug cost

The price of the Oriental rug and machine-made rugs differ a lot. While an Oriental rug is very expensive but more durable, a machine-made rug costs much less and is an alternative to expensive hand knotted or hand-woven rugs. There are rug salesmen all over the world however that will try to sell rugs made from a cheaper material like Rayon or a blend of chemically altered and/or manufactured fibers. They will have the rugs priced as if they were made of silk. Beware! A real silk rug should have real silk fringe that is clearly an extension of the rug’s structure, not sewn on or sewn into the ends of the rug.

Countries of origin like Persia, India, China, Egypt, and Afghanistan, do offer handmade Oriental rugs at a fraction of the price at which they are offered in Canada and other parts of North America. So, it may be worth it to travel to those countries if you are interested in purchasing a quality handmade Oriental rug.

If you are having any trouble identifying an Oriental rug from a man-made one, you can always turn to a trustworthy expert for help. A professional rug cleaner like Arslanian Bros., will have extensive knowledge in this subject. We hope this article answered some of the questions you had about identifying authentic handmade Oriental rugs and helped you make better decisions with rug purchases.

Source: //www.loveyourrug.ca/area-rug-blog/how-to-identify-authentic-handmade-oriental-rugs/

Myths about Carpet Cleaning

accounting@localsearchessentials.com (Local Search Essentials) — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 05:00:00 GMT

Sometimes, what you hear about completing a particular task contains inaccurate information. In order to clean your carpeting as efficiently as possible it’s important to ignore common myths that could actually affect the quality of your carpet cleaning. Understanding these myths will allow you to do a better job keeping your carpet clean.

Myth: My carpets don’t look dirty, so I don’t need a professional cleaning.

Don’t wait until the carpet looks dirty. Consult your carpet manufacturer for a schedule to regularly vacuum and professionally clean your carpet. Do not wait until the carpeting looks obviously dirty before beginning any cleaning efforts. That can actually damage the carpet because the longer the dirt and dust remains in the carpet the more likely it is to literally cut away at the carpet fibers like sandpaper. Waiting to clean the carpeting also can affect the health of your family members and visitors to your home. Experts say a square foot of the average nylon wall-to-wall carpeting can hold more than a pound of dirt, dust, and allergens and this growing pile of dirt can be particularly difficult to see with tan and brown carpeting.

Myth: It’s ok to let your carpeting to get soaked during cleaning.

Don’t let your carpet get too wet. For the most part, carpets and excessive moisture do not get along. That’s why carpet manufacturers do not recommend carpet shampoo machines. These machines allow the carpeting to become soaked, and if not dried properly, that moisture can lead to molds and fungus that can potentially spread throughout the home. Instead, carpet manufacturers recommend a regular professional cleaning treatment – usually once a year – that involves a water-extraction machine. These machines are often confused for steam machines, but they limit the amount of water sent into the carpet and can then retrieve all of that water after a thorough, deep cleaning of the carpeting is finished.

Myth: I have a carpet protectant, I don’t need to worry about or address spills and stains.

Don’t rely on carpet protectants. A scotch guard or other protective coating put down on your carpeting as a purchase incentive is only meant to add a level of protection. Stains can still damage the carpeting with this protection present, although they won’t soak in as quickly, and should be addressed immediately. It’s still crucial to address stains as soon as they occur because the protective coating on the carpeting will generally only delay the absorption of the stains into the carpet. First use white paper towels to soak up as much of the stain as possible. Then, combine a mixture of white vinegar and water and lightly dab the area, once again using the paper towels to blot the moisture in the carpet.

Carpeting and Its History

accounting@localsearchessentials.com (Local Search Essentials) — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 05:00:00 GMT

Back in prehistoric days, humans took shelter in primitive caves. It probably didn’t take them too long to start using animal skins, plant leaves, or other soft material to line the floors of their caves. Were these types of materials the first carpets? Not exactly. We do know that animals, such as goats and sheep, were sheared for hair and wool that could be spun and woven into floor coverings over 9,000 years ago. Knotted-pile carpet rugs are thought to have developed in western Asia 4,000-5,000 years ago.

The oldest rug ever discovered is the Pazyryk carpet, which is a pile carpet rug discovered in a Siberian burial mound in 1949. Experts believe it is over 6,000 years old, dating back to the 5th century B.C. Preserved in ice for thousands of years, the Pazyryk carpet features rich colors in a dense pile of symmetrical double knots.

Wall-to-wall carpeting, like we enjoy today, hasn’t been around nearly as long as the more portable version. They got their start as handcrafted bedspreads in the small town of Dalton, Georgia.

Around the turn of the 20th century, a young woman in Dalton named Catherine Evans Whitener made a handcrafted bedspread as a wedding gift. Using a quilt pattern she had seen, she sewed thick cotton yarn onto unbleached muslin fabric. To make the bedspread softer, she clipped the ends of the yarn, so that they would fluff out.

Over the next several decades, her process for making bedspreads became extremely popular, and entire families began to make a living by hand-tufting bedspreads. Demand for these bedspreads was high and spread to large cities around the U.S. Income from making bedspreads helped many Dalton-area families survive the Great Depression.

This was the introduction of the broadloom, which allowed room-sized carpets to be created. Why just cover a bed when you could cover an entire home? American floors were lost for decades beneath thick wall-to-wall carpeting. After World War II, new synthetic fibers were developed to replace wool and cotton, including polyester, nylon, rayon, and acrylics.

So now that we know all about where carpeting comes from, keep in mind that this wonderful stuff needs regular professional carpet cleaning. Call us you’re ready to schedule.

Fringe Problems

accounting@localsearchessentials.com (Local Search Essentials) — Wed, 12 Oct 2016 04:00:00 GMT

Looking for the best dry cleaners around? With so many options, it can be hard to know where to begin. The most important thing is finding a professional shop that values your satisfaction and your delicate clothing. Here are just a few of the signs that show your dry cleaner cares:

1. Friendly Personal Service

Do your local dry cleaners greet you warmly when you enter the shop? Do they take the time to listen to all of your questions and concerns? Dry cleaning professionals know the value of lasting personal relationships with their customers, because they have faith that the quality of their services will bring in repeat business. If your cleaners don’t seem to take an interest in building a rapport with you, it’s not a good sign.

2. Damage Compensation Policy

Although rare, sometimes clothing and textiles can be damaged during the cleaning cycle. Accidents are inevitable in any industry that handles a huge volume of items. What’s important is that your dry cleaners offer a fair and generous compensation policy to protect you in the unlikely event of harm to your garments.

3. On-Site Cleaning

What many people don’t realize is that some dry-cleaning services will actually transport your garments to be cleaned at an off-site location, using outsourced labor. This can considerably add to the time that it takes to get your clothing back to you. If you’re at all unsure as to whether your local dry cleaners actually do the cleaning themselves, be sure to ask – and if they don’t, you may wish to find an alternative.

4. Additional Services

Gentle, effective washing is the bread and butter of nearly all dry cleaning providers. But as garment professionals, many will also keep your clothes in top condition by offering additional amenities – such as garment repair, alterations, and wash-and-fold service. This can save you time and money, by letting you get multiple errands done at once and prolonging the lifespan of your valuable items.

5. Flexible Business Hours

Sometimes, finding the time to drop off or pick up your dry cleaning can be tough. After all, most people are at work during the same hours, more or less, that their dry cleaners are open. Sometimes you can make a mad dash during your lunch hour, but that’s hardly the most fun solution.

Rug Pile: A Quick User’s Guide

accounting@localsearchessentials.com (Local Search Essentials) — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 05:00:00 GMT

How can you keep your rugs and carpets clean when every time your door opens the deluge of snow and dirt wants to sneak in – on children’s shoes, on pets’ paws, on the feet of guests, and so on?! Here are some handy tips to help keep your rugs clean(er):

Create a 'no shoes in the house' rule. Set up a shoe rack at each entry, so shoes can be immediately taken off. Though this can be a slippery situation for guests you invite into your home. Using your own judgement for that is best. However, most people will cheerfully comply and understand.
Have mats inside and out – one to stomp on outside the door to remove as much dirt as possible, and one inside for people to stand on while removing their footwear.
Add runners down heavily trafficked areas in the home – from doorway to kitchen, in front of the couch, and down hallways. These will take the brunt of the dirt if someone forgets to take their shoes off.
Set up a pen around the doggie door. Your pet can re-enter the home, but must stay on a rug covered penned area until you are able to snag a towel and wipe his or her feet off. No muddy paw prints on the clean carpet!

No matter how hard you try, the rugs are going to get dirty, so give Glyndon Lord a call to help get them clean again.

Tile Cleaning Tips

accounting@localsearchessentials.com (Local Search Essentials) — Thu, 27 Aug 2015 04:00:00 GMT

Many people choose tile flooring in their homes because it is attractive and very durable. In order to maintain it’s beautiful appearance, it’s important to keep it clean. Try these tips to help keep your tile looking new.

Keep dirt off your tile floor

Your tile’s first line of defense against dirt is a doormat. According to the World Floor Covering Association (WFCA), dirt that is tracked across tile flooring will act as sandpaper and wear away the finished surface. By keeping doormats or area rugs inside every door of your house, you can prevent excessive dirt from coming into contact with your tile floor.

Clean regularly

Doormats won’t keep all the dirt out, so regular maintenance is the next step in keeping tile floors clean.

Sweep or vacuum up debris at least once a week, more often is better
Use a damp paper towel or sponge to wipe up any wet or sticky messes
Damp mop your floors weekly, all you need is a mop and warm water

Cleaning regularly can help to prevent serious dirt buildup and hard-to-remove stains, which are much more difficult and time consuming than day-to-day maintenance tasks.

Deep clean tough spots

Ground-in dirt may require a little more elbow grease. If you have textured tile, you may need to use a soft-bristle brush or scrubber sponge. Avoid highly abrasive tools such as steel wool or scrubbing powders, which can permanently scratch the surface of your tile. Once your tile floor is free of dirt, rinse away any residue with clean, warm water.

Sometimes a professional tile cleaning is in order

A professional is able to thoroughly and safely deep clean your tile, stone, and grout. With access to safe cleaners, highly effective equipment, and grout sealing products, All you need to do is regular upkeep and maintenance to enjoy your sparkling clean tile.

Source: //www.angieslist.com/articles/how-keep-tile-floor-clean.htm

How to Remove Pet Stains and Odors

accounting@localsearchessentials.com (Local Search Essentials) — Wed, 14 Jan 2015 05:00:00 GMT

For “new” stains (those that are still wet):

Soak up as much of the urine as possible with a combination of newspaper and paper towels. The more fresh urine you can remove before it dries, especially from carpet, the easier it will be to remove the odor. Place a thick layer of paper towels on the wet spot, and cover that with a thick layer of newspaper. If possible, put newspaper under the soiled area as well. Stand on this padding for about a minute. Remove the padding, and repeat the process until the area is barely damp.
If possible, put the fresh, urine-soaked paper towel in the area where it belongs —your cat’s litter box or your dog’s designated outdoor “bathroom area.” This will help remind your pet that eliminating isn’t a “bad” behavior as long as it’s done in the right place.
Rinse the “accident zone” thoroughly with clean, cool water. After rinsing, remove as much of the water as possible by blotting or by using a wet vac.

For stains that have already set:

Consider renting an extractor or wet vac to remove all traces of heavy stains in carpeting (get one from a local hardware store). This machine works much like a vacuum cleaner and is efficient and economical. Extracting/wet vac machines do the best job of forcing clean water through your carpet and then forcing the dirty water back out. When you use these machines or cleaners, carefully follow the instructions. Don’t use any chemicals with these machines; they work much better with plain water.
Use a high-quality pet odor neutralizer once the area is really clean (available at pet supply stores). Be sure to read and follow the cleaner’s directions for use, including testing the cleaner on a small, hidden portion of fabric first to be sure it doesn’t stain.
Try any good carpet stain remover if the area still looks stained after it’s completely dry from extracting and neutralizing.
Avoid using steam cleaners to clean urine odors from carpet or upholstery. The heat will permanently set the stain and the odor by bonding the protein into any man-made fibers.
Avoid using cleaning chemicals , especially those with strong odors such as ammonia or vinegar. From your pet’s perspective, these don’t effectively eliminate or cover the urine odor and may actually encourage your pet to reinforce the urine scent mark in that area.
Neutralizing cleaners won’t work until you’ve rinsed every trace of the old cleaner from the carpet if you’ve previously used cleaners or chemicals of any kind on the area. Even if you haven’t used chemicals recently, any trace of a non-protein-based substance will weaken the effect of the enzymatic cleaner. The cleaner will use up its “energy” on the old cleaners, instead of on the protein stains you want removed.
Your job will be more difficult if urine has soaked down into the padding underneath your carpet . In some cases, you may need to take the drastic step of removing and replacing that portion of the carpet and padding.

Source: www.humanesociety.org

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How to Improve Your Home’s Indoor Air Quality

accounting@localsearchessentials.com (Local Search Essentials) — Thu, 11 Dec 2014 05:00:00 GMT

During the cold winter months, we keep our home shut tightly to keep out the cold temperatures. With Americans spending about 90 percent of their time indoors, that means most of us will be living and breathing in those tight sealed environments until spring.

Most people associate the outdoor air as being polluted from sources like car exhaust, industrial emissions, and more. But actually, indoor pollutants can be up to 3 to 5 times as high as the outdoors.

What can make indoor air so polluted?

The most common indoor air pollutants are obvious, like cigarette smoke. Some other indoor pollutants that are less obvious are:

Household cleaning products
Central heating and cooling systems
Humidification devices
Radon
Air fresheners
Combustion sources (gas, oil, kerosene, coal, and wood)
Personal care products (hair spray, nail polish, perfumes or body spray, etc.)
Materials for hobbies (glues, epoxy, paint strippers, etc.)
Pesticides

These sources release a slew of chemical particles into your home, where it settles on your carpeting and upholstery. When you walk through a room or sit on your furniture, the dust with these chemicals gets stirred up into the air, where you breathe it in again.

What can you do to lower your home’s indoor air pollution?

Consider professional carpet, upholstery, and area rug cleaning to remove the large majority of these toxins from your home, including pet dander, dust mites, and pollen to name a few. Some other steps to take to minimize indoor air pollution are:

Minimize Pollutant Sources: Avoid spraying pesticides, chemical cleaners, air fresheners, and other synthetic products in your home.
Keep Your Home Clean: Regular dusting and vacuuming can keep some pollutants at bay. Your sheets and towel should be washed weekly in hot water, and also, keep the wet areas in your home (kitchen and bathrooms) dry to avoid mold and mildew.
Try to Increase Ventilation: When possible, open windows or doors to let in some fresh air. Consider using window or attic fans or kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans, as they vent your indoor air directly to the outdoors.
Consider an Air Purifier: HEPA air purifiers do an excellent job of filtering out these toxic particles in your home. They do vary widely in effectiveness, so be sure to do your homework when purchasing an indoor air purifier.