Carpet is a magnet for dirt, bacteria, and other irritants. Vacuuming helps keep them at bay, but regular deep cleaning is essential for a healthy home.
Spills happen, but quick response can avert permanent staining. Instead of rubbing stains, use a cloth, sponge, or paper towel to remove the liquid.
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Know Your Rug
Rugs are a great addition to any room, adding texture, warmth, and color. But rugs can also be magnets for dirt, dust, bacteria, and other harmful microbes.
Knowing what to do is essential for maintaining the cleanliness of your rugs! Knowing your rugs’ materials, weaves, and fibers is necessary for choosing the proper cleaning techniques.
For example, a natural fiber like wool needs gentle cleaning products. Synthetic rugs can be cleaned with a broader range of products but require special care to avoid damage.
When cleaning your rugs, blotting (not rubbing) is critical. This will help prevent the spread of stains and make for a more thorough cleaning. Also, always test any cleaner on an inconspicuous area before applying it to your carpets.
Read the Labels
Before embarking on your quest for professional-level carpet cleaning, mastering the art of reading rug labels is a crucial first step. These seemingly insignificant tags are vital to unlocking information, empowering you to make informed decisions about cleaning, maintenance, and even purchasing the right rug for your needs. The tags on rugs indicate everything from fiber type to cleaning instructions. They will also tell you the rug’s R-value, which helps with insulation. Knowing how to read the label will help you make wiser purchasing decisions based on price, fiber type, and stain resistance. You can find all this information on the tag or online if you bought your rug from a reputable carpet store.
Don’t Skip Stains
Stains are the bane of carpeting, especially in households with children or pets. Regular vacuuming is the first line of defense against stains and a crucial step in extending the life of your rug. This routine practice helps remove dirt and debris that can embed in the fibers, making them more susceptible to staining. Addressing spills as soon as they happen is equally essential. The longer a stain sits, the deeper it can penetrate the fibers, making removing it more difficult.
However, dealing with stubborn stains or wrestling with extensive cleaning demands may require professional intervention. Fortunately, reputable Carpet Cleaning Companies specialize in tackling challenging stains and restoring carpets to their original glory. Their experience and specialized equipment ensure that your carpets are cleaned effectively and safely, protecting their delicate fibers and enhancing longevity.
Always blot (don’t rub) when removing a stain, and use a clean white cloth or paper towel. Rubbing spreads the stain and makes it harder to lift. You should also avoid using store-bought cleaning solutions, which can set in the stain and leave residues that can cause it to reappear. The CRI suggests staining the area with 1/4 teaspoon liquid dish detergent and 1 cup lukewarm water.
Don’t Overdo It
Most experts will tell you that carpet cleaning is a good idea every 12-18 months. This is a good general rule, but there are factors to consider, especially for high-traffic areas and homes with children or pets.
Static electricity and the build-up of sand, dirt, and pet dander can quickly make the carpet dirty again, even after cleaning. Using a humidifier, removing shoes at the door, and regularly vacuuming can help.
When spills occur, blot (don’t rub) the area immediately to soak up as much liquid as possible. Also, remember to test cleaning products on an inconspicuous spot before applying them to your entire carpet. Avoid over-shampooing or over-wetting, leaving a soapy residue almost impossible to clean.
Don’t Overspray
If the carpet is too wet, stains will reappear. This is a costly problem for cleaning companies, and it is caused by the need to know the proper drying procedure. If you can put your finger on the carpet and feel the water, the carpet is too wet.
The best way to prevent this is to use a low-moisture system or high-quality detergents that leave no residue. This will keep the carpet clean longer and help it stay that way. Also, after cleaning, it is essential to turn up the heat and crack open the windows (in the dry climate of Boise or the Treasure Valley) to speed up evaporation and the drying process. This will keep the carpet from feeling tacky or stiff.
Appreciate it!