How do you steam clean an area rug at home?

To effectively steam clean an area rug at home, you need to use a steam cleaner and follow a few key steps.

Preparing Your Rug for Steam Cleaning

Before you begin steam cleaning, make sure the area rug is ready.

Vacuum Thoroughly: Use a vacuum cleaner to remove loose dirt and debris from the rug. This prevents pushing dirt further into the fibers during steam cleaning.
Check for Stains: Identify any stains that need pre-treatment. You can use a stain remover before steam cleaning, but always follow the manufacturer's instructions and test in an inconspicuous area first.
Read Cleaner Instructions: Review the manual of your steam cleaner to familiarize yourself with any specific instructions or recommendations for use, or for steaming rugs specifically.

Once your rug is prepared, begin steam cleaning.

Fill the Steam Cleaner: Fill the steam cleaner's reservoir with water according to the manufacturer's instructions. It's generally advised to use distilled water to avoid mineral buildup.
Test in a Hidden Spot: Before cleaning the entire rug, test the steam cleaner in a small, out-of-sight area to ensure it doesn't damage the fibers or colors.
Begin Steam Cleaning: Start at one end of the rug and slowly move the steam cleaner across the surface, overlapping each pass slightly to ensure even cleaning.

Smooth and Steady Motion: Slide the steam cleaner smoothly across the rug's surface.
Multiple Passes: If the rug is very dirty, go over the same areas a few times. (As the YouTube video mentioned, "If it's very dirty you want to make a few passes"). This helps remove more dirt and grime effectively.

Don't Over-Saturate: Avoid over-saturating the rug with water, which could damage the backing or cause mold and mildew. It is best to only apply steam and avoid excessive moisture.
Move in Consistent Passes: Be sure to overlap each pass slightly to ensure uniform cleaning.
Drying Time: Allow the area rug to fully dry after you're done steam cleaning. Open windows or use fans to help circulate air and reduce drying time. Avoid walking on the rug until it is completely dry.

Vacuum After Steaming: Once the rug is dry, give it another vacuuming to remove any remaining debris that was loosened during steam cleaning.
Deep Cleaning: For especially dirty rugs, professional steam cleaning may be necessary as professional equipment often provides more power and heat.
Be Cautious of Material: Not all rugs are suitable for steam cleaning, so check the manufacturer's care instructions for your specific rug before beginning the process.