Fortunately, there are a few tricks that will bring back the flatness of your rug, regardless of the size and material. Here, we will guide you about the top secrets and methods of unfolding a rolled carpet so that it returns to its shiny old days.
Techniques to Flatten a Folded Rug
1. Reverse the Folding Process
The initial thing to attempt is to reverse the method of folding. As is the case with rolled rugs, reversing the fold is among the most effective options for flattening them.
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How to Do It: First, unfold the rug carefully. Place it on a horizontal surface like a clean and dry floor or on a large table. In case the rug was folded bullet-style, it could have creases on the folds. By hand, stretch and flatten the rug, working outward to the borders.
2. Apply Weight to the Creased Areas
When you have completely unfolded the rug, the best thing to do is to put down weight (on the folded parts), to get the creases to fade out.
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How to Do It: Keep heavy things like books, furniture, or certain rug weights on the creased parts. Keep the rug in this position for a few hours or overnight. The wrinkles and creases will also be flattened by the pressure of the weight. This is an effective way to remove folds in a resistant area rug.
3. Use Heat to Relax the Fibers
Heat is a good way to assist you in softening the threads of your rug and making them easier to work with. It can assist the rug to lie flat and also smooth out any creases as a result of folding.
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How to Do It: Apply moderate heat, using a hairdryer, steam iron, or garment steamer, to the creased parts of the rug. Then move the heat medium across the rug at a distance of one-half foot or a little more. Do not use direct heat for too long, or you will damage the fibers or alter the color of the rug.
4. Roll the Rug in the Opposite Direction
Another trick that is easy but works is rolling the rug against the direction of the folds. The technique is best on the rugs that have acquired harsh creases as a result of prolonged folding.
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How to Do It: Roll the rug out along the wrong sides of the creases. Lock it up with rubber strips or string to stop it from unrolling. Keep the rug in this position for a few hours or overnight. Once the rug has been rolled for some time, take it off and put it back where it belongs. This ought to loosen up the tension of the fibers and smooth the rug.
5. Steam the Rug
One of the most efficient methods of flattening a folded rug is to use steam, particularly in the event that the rug being flattened is a natural fiber such as a wool or cotton rug. The steam can assist in relaxing the fibers and also assist in eliminating any smell that may be remaining.
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How to Do It: You get to do it with either a professional steam cleaner or a handheld garment steamer. When you are using a steamer, ensure that the steamer is at a safe distance and steam on the folds. Delicate rugs need care; too high a level of steam might break the fibers.
6. Let the Rug Rest in a Dry, Warm Area
Once any of the methods discussed above is used, it is best to allow the rug some rest. Put it in a warm and dry place, not under the sun. Allowing the rug to rest for a few hours or a day can be useful so that the fibers can settle and adjust.
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How to Do It: Put the rug out on a hardwood or tile floor, or even a clean rug pad. Place the rug in a well-ventilated place. Ideally, do not expose the rug to direct sunlight because it may fade the colors or deteriorate the fibers eventually.
Preventing Rugs from Getting Folded in the Future
Now that you have managed to flatten your rug, it is very important to take precautionary measures so as to ensure it does not get folded back.
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Roll, Don’t Fold: When you are storing or traveling with your rug, make sure you roll it, don't fold it. Rolling keeps the shape of the rug in order and does not allow creases and wrinkles to develop.
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Use a Rug Pad: A good quality rug pad can hold the rug and keep it set, prevent shifting, folding, and bunching. Also, they use a rug pad that adds underfoot cushion and comfort..
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Regular Rotation: Keep your rug moving by rotating it on a regular basis. This will keep the rug in shape and stop one side of your rug from wearing out sooner than the other.
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Proper Storage: When you want to keep your rug for a long time, roll it up and store it in a dry and cool region. It should not be kept in a humid or damp atmosphere because the rug will warp or even develop mold.
Final Thoughts
With the correct techniques, it is much easier than one might expect to flatten out a folded rug. With these methods, you can reverse the fold, put weight on it, or heat it up to restore your rug to its correct shape. One should always work softly and slowly with your rug to prevent damage.
You should always ask a professional rug cleaner or expert, in case you are in doubt, a nd in case you have a very delicate rug. We can perform the cleaning and care guides professionally at MK Rugs and make the rug look as good as new. More information on our website.
Disclaimer
This blog is just a source of information that is related to general information. Never use heat or steam on your rug. In case any of your techniques are not clear to you, take them to a professional rug care expert. MK Rugs will not be liable for any damage done to your rug or floor by any user of its methods.