How to Pack and Move Rugs When Relocating in 5 Easy Steps

Moving requires many hours of planning, packing and plenty of boxes. Smaller items such as books, clothing, dishes and cherished knick-knacks are lovingly bubble wrapped and carefully placed inside of boxes, but what about those awkwardly shaped items that cannot be folded and shoved into a box? Oriental and other large area rugs are often overlooked when making a major move. Since rugs are often an expensive investment, or perhaps a priceless family heirloom, you will want to take a few quick steps to prepare your rug for the big move.

Step 1: Cleaning

Before you pack away the vacuum cleaner, you will want to give your rug a thorough and meticulous cleaning. Start by running the vacuum over the entire rug, making sure to pick up any loose crumbs, dirt or hair and then spot clean any stains with a gentle cleaner and a clean rag. If your rug is fragile or valuable, it may be beneficial to hire a professional to handle the cleaning for you, if your budget allows.

Step 2: Rolling

While rolling up a rug may sound like common sense, there is a correct process one should follow. Failure to properly roll your rug could cause irreversible creases or warps that cannot be repaired. Always roll your rug on a completely flat surface. For example, should your rug cover a staircase, move the rug onto the ground before rolling. Make sure to smooth out any creases or bumps.

Although you may assume to roll the rug with the soft design part on the inside, it is the opposite. Rolling your rug with the backing facing outward might put too much stress and strain on the backing. Since the rug will be protected with some protective, outer cover, try not to worry about getting any dirt or stains on your rug. Besides, dirt and stains can be cleaned, but damage to the backing is a much bigger problem.

Step 3: Tying

Once your rug is properly rolled, you will need to secure the roll to keep it from unraveling during your move. Twine is highly recommended, as it won’t cause too much pressure on your fragile rug. If you don’t have any twine, Cheap Movers DC recommends moving wrap or a rope as an appropriate substitute.

Step 4: Covering

It certainly wouldn’t make much sense to go through all of the steps to protect your rug, only to toss it into a dirty moving truck or the back of a vehicle. If you’re moving long distance, or your rug will be kept in storage, you will want to use a blanket or canvas cover. For local or shorter moves, a plastic cover may be used instead. The problem with leaving the plastic wrap on your rug for an extended period (or in certain extreme weather conditions) is plastic may cause condensation, which could potentially damage your cherished rug.

Step 5: Unrolling

You will want to promptly unroll your rug upon arriving at your new destination. The longer your rug remains in a rolled position, the higher the likelihood that the corners of the rug won’t cooperate and lie flat. If this should happen, don’t despair as double-sided tape may be used under the corners.