The Simple Tip That Protects Your Floors & Keeps Them Clean For Longer

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Hardwood, laminate, tile, and vinyl flooring seem easy to care for, since they are flat, non-absorbent, and mostly smooth surfaces. However, there are many things that can cause damage and dirty buildup, especially when your floors are subject to heavy shoe traffic, debris or wetness coming in from outside, or daily spilled foods and liquids. It's certainly a chore to maintain your space, but your cleaning methods, routine, and tools may play a role in why you can't keep your floors clean longer. In fact, there's an easy solution that could make a big difference. Using runners and rugs is a simple addition that captures dust and dirt and absorbs hard impacts from heels, furniture, or falling objects. The surrounding and underlying floor stays protected and clean with minimal effort.

It's important to note that washable rugs and runners are going to be your best option, so you might consider investing in a product like the RUGGABLE Washable Vintage Area Rug. Rugs and runners come in an array of colors and patterns to suit your style. The ability to clean them easily when they become dirty, dingy from use, or stained will save you money by preventing the need for constant replacements. Washable rugs and runners are generally a great choice if you need something more pet- and kid-friendly, since they tend to be made with materials more resistant to stains. And since rugs are a key part of a room's design, washable options let you keep your lighter-colored styles to brighten the aesthetic without worrying as much about permanent blemishes.

First, take note of the high-traffic areas in your home. A few well-placed shoe mats can help keep your entryway floors clean for longer, but you should also include a washable rug or runner where people first walk into your home as added protection. Any dirt or debris will be caught on the rugs, and if it's snowy or raining, they help prevent any moisture from getting onto hardwood, laminate, or grout and causing damage. Your kitchen is another high-traffic space you can cover with a washable runner, with rugs in front of sinks and ranges helping to grab frequent spills. They even help absorb sound for a more peaceful space underneath. 

Rugs also act as a barrier for large furniture standing on and moving across your floors. Put one under your dining room table and chairs, kitchen island, and living room sofa and cocktail table to prevent unsightly scratches, scuffs, and dents. To keep the rugs or runners in place, you might want to opt for one that has a pad or two on the bottom to help it stay put and not slip. You could also invest in some sticky rug and runner grippers, like these GORILLA GRIP Rug Gripper Pads. There are also other preventive methods to protect your high-traffic floors that you can use alongside your rugs and runners. Consider taking off shoes when entering your home or keeping wipes or towels handy for muddy and wet paws. Be diligent about maintaining your floors regularly, ensuring that you use the best cleaning methods for every type of flooring (to do it correctly). Finally, it's essential to address any necessary repairs to your floors as soon as possible.