A carpet may not seem like of the biggest investment that you will ever make in your home, but the more often you have to call carpet cleaning services every now and then, the costs may quickly ramp up, thus turning your carpet it into an increasingly larger home investment. However, the good news is that you have total control of how clean your carpet stays, which, in turn, will help you save on the cleaning costs. Below is a brief look at some of the simple tips you should consider to keep your carpet clean.
Place Quality Mats in High-Traffic Areas
Nearly 90% of the soils that end up indoors usually come from the shoes of those who come into the house. A better way to avoid such grime and dirt from accessing the carpets is to simply invest in a very high-quality mat placed on the entrances and other high traffic areas in the home. An important point to consider is that area rug cleaning is cheaper compared to cleaning an entire carpet.
No Wearing of Shoes In the House
If you want to take the cleanliness of your carpets to the next level, consider adopting a no-shoes policy in your home. Even if you use high-quality mats and frequently vacuum your carpets, shoes can still bring in dirt, bacteria, and other particles that can accumulate over time and eventually require a deep clean.
By removing your shoes before entering your home, you can help keep your carpets and floors much cleaner. To make the transition easier for your family and guests, consider providing a designated area near the entryway where shoes can be stored.
To further protect your carpet investment, it’s also a good idea to occasionally deep clean your carpet to remove any lingering dirt and bacteria that vacuuming alone may not be able to remove. You can do this by renting a carpet cleaning machine or hiring a professional carpet cleaning service.
After deep cleaning, be sure to rinse the carpet thoroughly to remove any cleaning solution residue that can attract dirt and leave your carpet looking dull. With regular maintenance and a no-shoes policy, you can enjoy a clean carpet that looks and feels great for years to come.
Vacuum Your Carpets Regularly
To keep your carpets clean, it’s important to vacuum them regularly. While it may seem obvious, some people only vacuum their carpets when they see visible dirt or debris. However, even if your carpets don’t appear dirty, there could be dirt and dust particles deep in the fibers that can cause wear and tear over time.
It’s recommended that you vacuum your carpets at least once a week, but if you have pets or live in a high-traffic household, you may need to vacuum more frequently. Frequent vacuuming not only keeps your carpets looking clean, but it can also improve the air quality in your home by removing allergens and other particles that can cause respiratory problems.
When vacuuming, be sure to use a high-quality vacuum cleaner with strong suction and rotating brushes. Take your time and go over each section of the carpet several times, especially in high-traffic areas. This will help to remove as much dirt and debris as possible and ensure that your carpets last longer.
Treat Stains as Soon as They Occur
As soon as you notice a carpet stain, it’s important to act quickly to remove it. The longer you wait, the more difficult it will be to remove the stain. Here’s what you should do:
- Blot the stain with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel to remove as much of the stain as possible. Avoid rubbing the stain, as this can push the stain deeper into the carpet fibers.
- Once you’ve blotted up as much of the stain as possible, apply a carpet stain remover or a solution of white vinegar and water to the affected area. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product label.
- Allow the solution to sit on the stain for several minutes, then blot the area with a clean, damp cloth to remove the solution and the stain.
- If the stain is still visible, you can repeat the process or try a different stain removal method, such as using baking soda or hydrogen peroxide.
It’s important to note that some carpet stains, such as red wine or ink, may require professional cleaning services to remove completely. If you’re unsure about how to remove a carpet stain or if it’s a particularly stubborn one, it’s best to call in the professionals.
By acting quickly and following the tips in the previous section, you can keep your carpet looking clean and fresh for longer. Remember, prevention is key, so be sure to take steps to avoid spills and accidents on your carpet in the first place.
Dealing with Pet Accidents
If you have pets in your home, accidents can happen, and they can leave behind unpleasant stains and odors on your carpet. If your pet has an accident on your carpet, it’s important to act quickly to prevent the stain from setting in.
The first step is to blot up as much of the urine or feces as possible with a clean cloth. Avoid rubbing the stain, as this can push the urine or feces deeper into the carpet fibers. Once you’ve removed as much of the stain as possible, you can treat the area with a pet stain and odor remover. These products are specially designed to break down the enzymes in pet urine and feces, eliminating the odor and preventing your pet from returning to the same spot to repeat the accident.
If the stain is particularly stubborn, you may need to call a professional carpet cleaning service. They will have the tools and expertise to remove even the toughest pet stains and odors from your carpet, leaving it fresh and clean once again.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your carpet looking and smelling fresh, and avoid the need for frequent cleaning services. With a little effort and regular maintenance, you can enjoy a super-clean carpet and rug for years to come.