Wondering how to store rugs or carpets? It’s essential to store rugs correctly to maintain their shape, prevent damage, and extend their lifespan. Whether you need short-term or long-term carpet storage, here’s a step-by-step guide to how to store a rug the right way!
Step One: Clean the Rug
Thoroughly cleaning your rug can help protect its fibers and prevent any issues with rug insects or mold while in storage. First, carefully vacuum the rug to lift any dust, dander, or crumbs. Next, check the rug’s manual to see if any additional cleaning is recommended (e.g., woven, antique, rush, and fur rugs tend to require special care—from brush and sponge-cleaning to using a chemical carpet cleaner).
Depending on the rug storage space you’ll eventually choose, you may also want to treat your rug for pests. If the label doesn’t suggest a specific repellent, look up the type of rug you’re storing to find a safe option. Test it out on a small or hidden section of the rug to ensure it doesn’t affect the fabric, then finish applying. Check that your carpet is completely dry before moving on to the next steps to avoid moisture, mold, or other damage.
Step Two: Roll the Rug Up
To prevent creases, cracks, and other damage to the fibers and backing in storage, you should never fold a rug or carpet. Instead, roll the rug into an even cylinder. This method helps protect the rug’s fibers while also saving space in storage. To minimize stress to the rug, always roll along the grain with the most fragile side facing inward. Generally, the pile (or front) is more delicate than the back and should be on the inside. Determine which way the grain runs by moving your hands along the surface and finding where the fibers lay smooth. As you start rolling the rug, keep it as straight as possible, using a rod or wooden dowel for support if necessary. Be sure to roll the rug tightly, as large gaps can cause creasing and impair the look of your carpet over time.
Step Three: Wrap the Rug
When storing a rug, it’s best to wrap it in a protective layer to help keep out bugs, dirt, dust, and other elements that can damage its delicate fibers. Avoid using plastic to wrap your rug as it’s less breathable and can trap moisture. Instead, choose a material that allows air to circulate—like rug storage bags and materials like polyethylene paper or muslin. If you’re using a flat material, wrap it around the rug at least one and a half times. Secure your rug’s wrapping with polyester twill tape, rope, or heavy-duty twine.
Step Four: Choose the Right Rug Storage Space
Selecting an appropriate storage environment is crucial when it comes to preserving your rug for future use. Prolonged exposure to humidity, extreme temperatures, or natural light can damage your rug’s fibers and appearance. That’s why rugs should always be stored in a cool, dry, and dark space—meaning attics, basements, and garages can work only as a very short-term storage solution. Be sure to run a dehumidifier or cover windows with shades to make storing a rug in these areas work. If your home doesn’t have a suitable place to store your rug or you plan to keep it stored for a long period of time, consider renting a climate-controlled storage unit instead for additional protection.
Step Five: Store the Rug Correctly
While choosing the right storage environment is key, it’s equally important to store your rug properly. The best way to store rugs over long periods of time is to stand them up vertically—this can help your rug better maintain its shape. It’s also a good idea to place your carpet on an elevated surface—such as a pallet, thick tarp, or shelf—before long-term rug storage. Not only can this help keep it clean, but it’s also a great way to avoid moisture damage and prevent rug insects. Prop the rug in a corner to keep it from toppling over, away from any heavy items that could accidentally fall onto it. Every few months, be sure to unroll your rug and check that everything looks the way it should!
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Need a secure environment to store your rug? Extra Space Storage has climate-controlled storage across the U.S. to help. Find climate-controlled storage units near you!
