TRENDS, Under The Rug (NAPSA)—Sixty-four percent of U.S. homeowners have rugs in their homes, found a recent survey by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), but only 40 percent clean them on a regularbasis. Like carpets, rugs require proper maintenance to retain their appearance and durability. The TICRC recommendsthe following steps to keep rugs looking great: When having your rugs cleaned, be sure to use a certified profes- sional who specializes in rugs. Know what type of rug you own. Machine made, hand knotted or tufted construction, as well as various fibers used in the rug, affect the methodof cleaning. Use padding underneath the rug to protect floors, keep the rug in place and lessen damage. Blot spilled liquids quickly with a dry, white cloth or paper towel. Vacuum rugs regularly front- back-front to removeparticle soil. Store clean rugs wrapped in paper in a clean, dry location. For cleaning, call a certified professional. For a list of firms, visit www.CertifiedCleaners.org or call (800) 835-4624.
