YOUR PREMIER RUG CARE EXPERTS

Rug Cleaning Frequently Asked Questions


Is your rug worth cleaning? This is a subjective question, and it ultimately depends on your personal perspective. Value isn’t always measured in dollars. Your rug might have market value, sentimental value, or simply play a crucial role in tying together a room’s color and theme. At Fiber Specialties, we also consider the environmental impact of discarding rugs; the fewer rugs in landfills, the better!

FAQ

This is a subjective question, and is really up to you. Value isn’t always measured monetarily. A rug can have market value,  sentimental value, or it could simply have the value of tying a rooms color and theme together.  We look at the environmental impact of discarding rugs as a value for cleaning them too, the less rugs we can send to the landfill the better! It is true that the cleaning cost of some rugs may outweigh the market value of the rug, so ultimately it is up to you to decide if you want to replace the rug or extend its life. Rugs and textiles should be cleaned periodically for health regardless of value. If you are going to decide to discard your rug, please consider donating it to us. We use discarded rugs for our own training purposes, and donate many clean rugs to the Idaho Youth Ranch to support their ongoing efforts. You can learn more about IYR and their fantastic programs at www.iyrthriftstores.org

These terms seem to be used interchangeably. Rugs can be hand or machine made, made of natural or synthetic fibers……however so can a carpet. A Rug is a floor covering that is not attached and does not extend wall to wall. Carpeting is typically attached and/or does cover more than 90% of the floor. The interesting thing is that the two terms can easily be used for a single product. The easy way to know if it’s a rug, is if we can roll it up and bring it to our shop without ripping up your carpet;) Typically Rugs are much denser that installed carpet, and therefore can hold on to A LOT of soil and particulates that simple vacuuming just won’t remove.

We can handle any kind of pet odor and staining. We can completely neutralize odors with our PH correct decontamination bath. Staining depends on the fiber and the duration of time the Urine has set, and if improper cleaning agents were used. Interestingly, fresh urine starts off as an acidic agent, however as it ages, it turns alkaline and can damage natural fibers. Most stains treated at our facility will completely disappear or be greatly reduced. 

Area rugs should always be cleaned in a specialized rug cleaning setting, as recommended by the IICRC, Woolsafe Providers, and ARCS. Proper flushing and cleaning require ample water to remove deeply embedded soils, especially for urine or larger spills. Additionally, many natural fibers need specialized speed drying and pH neutralization that simply cannot be achieved at home. Some rugs have loose dye that can bleed to other areas during washing, sometimes even every time they are cleaned. Our shop features the largest rug washing floor in the valley, and we are very familiar with all types of investment and heirloom quality rugs and textiles.

Cleaning intervals depend on usage. Most manufacturers suggest cleaning every 12 months. Rugs should be cleaned BEFORE they look dirty! Generally, rugs need cleaning every 1 to 3 years, depending on traffic levels. For high-traffic rugs or those in homes with pets, we recommend cleaning them yearly. Rugs in entranceways, high-traffic hallways, kitchens, and bathrooms should be professionally cleaned more frequently. In contrast, rugs in lesser-used areas of the home, as well as wall hangings and tapestries, typically require only a professional dusting once a year and cleaning every 5 to 10 years. Our Fiber ProTector product can help keep your textiles looking great between cleanings.

We have over 75 years of combined experience in rug and textile care, specializing exclusively in cleaning rugs and investment-quality textiles. We do not handle tile or grout cleaning, air duct cleaning, or wood floor refinishing. Our focus is solely on being highly specialized rug and textile experts. We clean some of the most expensive handmade rugs flying on Private, Corporate, Heads of State and Royal Family Aircraft all over the world, and we take the same approach to every rug that comes through our doors. We consistently communicate with the best rug cleaners in the industry globally to compare new products and processes. In fact, some rug manufacturers even rely on us to inspect and clean their products.

Yes, we offer 2 levels of pickup and delivery service. Standard Care and White Glove Service. Both of these services are flat rate, all-inclusive pricing. 

We operate throughout the Treasure Valley on a regular basis, however we are happy to discuss your job and how we can facilitate a service in your area! We always love an excuse to road trip around Idaho!

We utilize standardized fixed rate pricing for all our services. Rug services are priced by the square foot, protection services are priced by square footage and or by covered yards. Contact us for a custom pricing quote, and we will help you get the right measurements. No hidden fees.

We accept all forms of payment. Cash, credit card, and check. Payment is due in full at the time of service. We try not to keep a lot of cash around, however we do have banks a block away! We also have electronic invoicing and contactless terminals.

Included with our Rug cleaning and Fiber ProTector services, Fiber Specialties  offers a FREE 3-year performance agreement. 

-MRC (Master Rug Cleaner) This is an intensive certification given by some of the most respected cleaners in the country. Fiber Specialties has 3 Certified Master Rug Cleaners on staff. 

-IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) is the leading technician and company certification requiring training to ensure the quality of the cleaning industry as a whole in Disaster clean up, Carpet Cleaning, Rug and other Specialty cleanings.

– ARCS (Association of Rug Care Specialists) Is the Gold standard as it pertains to Rug Cleaning shop Certification. This Organization ensures that a Rug Cleaning shop is dedicated to providing Museum Quality Cleanings in a proper environment as well as providing continuing education to its staff.
-CRI (Carpet and Rug Institute) certifies equipment, processes, solutions, and firms on behalf of most if not all carpet manufacturers (the vacuum you use must be CRI certified or most carpet warranties are void!)
-Woolsafe International tests and certifies cleaning solutions and protection products on behalf of the Wool Processing Industry, These products are typically the Gold standard of safety for Rug cleaning and Protection products.

Well We would love for you to check out our Fiber ProTector page, or peruse the Fiber ProTector FAQs page below!

Yes, we have cleaned many animal hides with excellent results over the years. Pricing for animal hides are determined upon inspection.

Fiber ProTector FAQ’s

Fiber ProTEctor has been and is continued to be the highest qualified textile protection product by independent testing facilities.

Fiber ProTector was originally from Norway, developed in 1996 for the demanding cruise ship industry. The formula has stood the test of time. Fiber ProTector sold on the North American Continent, is made here in the USA, Marketed and Distributed to a select network from beautiful Boise, Idaho   

Not at all.  Using Fiber ProTector does not change the look or feel of carpeting. For the past 20 years, we have worked with the most discriminating yacht, aircraft, and home interior designers and architects, whose attention to detail is second to none

The product is safe for use on wool rugs. Our Fiber ProTector products are tested and approved safe by the independent WoolSafe Organization 

With wear from dirt and traffic, the protection can diminish from the tips of the fibers over time. The more traffic and dirt, the faster it wears. After professional deep cleaning by IICRC/ARCS certified technicians, Fiber ProTector will remain intact. If you’re unsure about the strength of the protection, pour a bit of water over the fabric and see if it beads up and stays dry.
Fiber ProTector products typically last 2 to 6+ years in moderate traffic conditions! For some of our high-traffic clients, reapplication every few years is recommended. With proper cleaning techniques, treatments for moderate personal use should last the life of the textile.

Under average room temperature conditions (21 degrees C, 50% Humidity), most objects should be dry in 1 hour. Longer dry times could occur under the following conditions: colder temperatures, more humid conditions, or heavy applications. Providing for proper ventilation for the product will also provide quicker dry time in most conditions. It can be used on rugs, residential or commercial carpeting, and automobile carpeting and matting. When treating we always check for colorfastness first by testing in an inconspicuous area or on samples.

This product works great on most fabrics! Whether natural fabrics like cotton, linen & wool, synthetic fabrics like polyester & nylon, or delicate fabrics like silk and viscose; you can use Fiber ProTector Fabric ProTector for fabrics, carpets & upholstery. We do not recommend using on plastics or vinyl. 

Why Choose Fiber Specialties?

At Fiber Specialties, we pride ourselves on using the latest techniques and eco-friendly solutions to clean, restore, and protect your valuable rugs. Here’s why customers trust us as their preferred rug cleaning company in Idaho:

Expertise and Experience

Our team of certified master rug cleaners is skilled in handling a variety of rug types, from delicate antique pieces to robust modern designs.

Customized Care

We tailor our rug cleaning and restoration methods to suit the specific type of your rug and its unique needs, ensuring optimal results.

Comprehensive Services

From deep cleaning to intricate repairs and preventive protection, we offer a full range of services to keep your rugs looking their best.

Whether you are seeking routine maintenance or need advanced restoration work, Fiber Specialties is here to provide professional care with outstanding results. Trust us to preserve and enhance the beauty of your rugs, contributing to the overall ambiance and comfort of your spaces.

Visit Fiber Specialties today to experience the best in rug care, or contact us for more information on how we can serve you right in your locality.