Whether you’ve had your carpet for a month or a decade, there are certain signs that it’s time to replace it. Learn when it’s better to clean a rug or get rid of it altogether.

Cleaning vs. Replacing a Rug

If your rug or carpet looks a little dirty or slightly smelly, it may just need a good cleaning. Here’s how to tell the difference:

Clean the carpet when:

• It’s relatively new
• There are no signs of wear
• A few isolated, treatable stains are easily removed

If dirt can be vacuumed and any odor disappears after the stain is lifted, your carpet should live to see another day. A professional cleaning could also be sufficient in removing tougher stains.

Replace the rug when:

• There are multiple signs of aging, such as flat, matted fibers, fraying edges, or general deterioration.
• Deep-set dirt is harder to vacuum and even steam cleaning doesn’t lift permanent stains.
• Allergies are triggered. This could be from frayed fibers, trapped dust, or mold.
• Persistent odors don’t go away after shampooing.

When cleaning is no longer an effective solution, replacing the carpet is your next option.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Rug

The age of your flooring doesn’t always determine when you should replace it. While older items are more prone to issues, problems can still plague newer carpets. For instance, persistent pet accidents, tracked in dirt, and flooding can all dramatically decrease the life expectancy of your rug and carpet. Even if your carpet looks okay, older padding underneath can deteriorate and make the flooring feel hard and uneven.

The best time to get rid of a carpet or rug is when it’s visibly worn, uncomfortable underfoot, smells, or causes health concerns cleaning can’t fix. If you’re going to replace your carpet, the fall is an ideal time. Help improve indoor comfort and air quality before you start spending more time inside this winter.