Carpeting is such an important part of your home’s interior, improving air quality, reducing noise, and providing warmth and comfort underfoot. You’ll want to take proper care to extend the life of your carpet and keep it looking and performing its best. Below we’ve listed some tips to keep your carpet in its best condition.
Vacuum regularly
Vacuum carpeting at least once per week, more if you have pets or children, to keep dust and soil from setting into the carpet fibers. You can use a rubber squeegee to help collect pet hair, and vacuum high-traffic areas a couple of times.
Treat spills immediately
The sooner you clean and treat a stain, the more likely you can remove it. Blot and soak up wet spills (don’t scrub) and use the edge of a dull knife or spatula to lift away solids like mud or food. If it makes sense, use a shop vacuum to suck up the mess without working it further into the carpet.
After pulling as much of the spill out of the carpet as possible, treat the area. Depending on the type of stain, you might use water, club soda, or a commercially available cleaner. (Always test products in a hidden place to make sure they won’t damage your carpet.) Again, blot, don’t scrub. It may take repeated treatments, so be patient. Avoid walking on the area until it has dried completely.
Deep Clean
Depending on the traffic in your home, you’ll want to deep clean your carpet every six to eighteen months. You can do it yourself or hire professionals – it costs less to do it yourself, but professionals have access to more effective equipment and cleaners, as well as specialized knowledge and training. As always, follow the carpet manufacturer’s instructions.
After the carpet has been deep cleaned, avoid all traffic until it is completely dry. Once it’s dry, vacuum to catch any loosened soil or fibers before moving the furniture back in.
Bonus prevention tips
- Reduce the dirt and wear and tear on your carpeting by placing doormats outside and inside all entrance doors to trap soil or remove shoes at the door to avoid tracking in dirt.
- Change HVAC filters to trap dust before it lands on the carpet.
- Brush and bathe pets regularly.
- Keep your vacuum in good working order so it will maintain suction and clean your carpeting well.
With these tips, you’ll keep your carpet looking and performing its best for years to come.
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