how to care for wool carpet stair treads
About This Guide
At Oak Valley Designs, we craft our wool carpet stair treads for enduring beauty, superior safety, and straightforward care. While they are designed to be washable, it's absolutely essential to hand-wash or spot-clean them. Machine washing can compromise the integrity of the adhesive backing and lead to shrinkage, diminishing the very qualities that make your stairs safer. Regular vacuuming and immediate attention to spills are your best allies. For a deeper clean, gentle hand-washing or using a carpet shampooer is recommended, always ensuring your treads are completely air-dried before they return to your staircase, ready to provide 'A better way to tread'.
Steps
Maintain Freshness with Regular Vacuuming
To preserve the luxurious feel and appearance of your Oak Valley Designs wool treads, we recommend a gentle vacuuming session at least once a week. For high-traffic areas, consider a quick refresh twice a week. A vacuum with a brush attachment works wonders to lift trapped dirt and pet hair, keeping your treads pristine. Don't forget those tricky edges and corners; a crevice tool will help you reach every nook. Move the brush gently back and forth over the treads and the beautiful wood surrounding each one, ensuring both are clean and protected.
Act Fast: Spot-Clean Spills Immediately
Life happens, and spills are part of it! When a mishap occurs, your quick action is key to maintaining the beauty of your wool treads. Immediately blot the affected area with a clean, white cloth. Prepare a gentle cleaning solution with a small amount of mild detergent mixed into warm water. Remember, always blot, don't rub! Rubbing can push the stain deeper into the fibers and spread it. For the longevity of your treads and to protect their vibrant colors, steer clear of harsh chemicals or bleach, which can cause fading and damage the natural wool fibers.
The Oak Valley Way: Hand-Wash or Spot-Clean Only
We design our carpet stair treads for durability and easy care, and that includes being washable – but with a specific, crucial method! Always hand-wash or spot-clean your treads. We cannot stress this enough: a washing machine will irrevocably damage the innovative adhesive backing that keeps your treads securely in place, reducing their vital grip and potentially causing shrinkage due to heat. This is paramount for maintaining the safety and stability we promise. If your treads require a more thorough clean, a carpet shampooer or hot-water extraction can be used, but be mindful to avoid oversaturating the treads.
Ensure Complete Air Drying for Lasting Safety
After giving your treads a refreshing clean, the next step is just as important for their longevity and your family's safety. Always air dry your carpet stair treads flat. Never, ever use a dryer, as the heat can permanently damage the fibers and the adhesive. It's crucial that the treads are completely, thoroughly dry before you place them back onto your staircase. This ensures the adhesive backing retains its full power, providing the secure grip you rely on for peace of mind and preventing any potential damage to your beautiful wooden stairs. 'Clean, peel, and stick' works best when starting with a dry, ready-to-adhere tread!
Questions about your project or which product fits? Oak Valley Designs's team is happy to help. Mon–Fri 9–5 ET




