Carpets and rugs are beautiful when they are clean, but they can quickly become less attractive and repulsive when they get dirty. That’s when it’s time to call in the professionals for a little bit of TLC to improve their overall aesthetic appeal. But how exactly do you prepare your carpets for professional cleaning? Here are some tips to help you get started.
Clear the Area
Whether you’re hiring a professional carpet cleaner or doing the job yourself, it’s important to clear the area before you begin. Remove as much furniture as possible to make it easier and more efficient to work on clear spaces. This will not just give you an easy time during the actual cleaning, but will also ensure that potential trip hazards are also taken out of the way. If you are hiring professionals, ask if they will help you move the furniture as some cleaners usually include this in their quote.
Remove Dust and Debris
It’s advisable to get rid of as much dust and debris as possible from the carpet before the actual cleaning commences. This will make it easy for the cleaning to focus fully on removing the deep down soiled-in dirt. Some professional carpet cleaning companies may agree to do the vacuuming prior to the work, while others will ask you to first vacuum the carpet before they clean it. If you’re doing the job yourself, start by thoroughly vacuuming the entire carpet. Pay extra attention to high-traffic areas and corners where dust and dirt can accumulate.
Treat Stains and Problem Areas
If you have any stains or problem areas on your carpet, it’s important to treat them before the cleaning job begins. Use a carpet cleaner specifically designed to remove the type of stain you’re dealing with, or a homemade solution of vinegar and water. Apply the cleaner directly to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes before gently blotting it away with a clean cloth. Don’t rub the stain, as this can damage the carpet fibers and make the stain worse.
Protect Your Home and Upholstery
Professional carpet cleaning can be a messy job, so it’s important to protect your home and furniture. Hang up or remove curtains that reach the floors to protect them from the rigorous actions of the cleaning process. Take your pets out of the area to prevent them from interfering with the progress of the work or getting tangled up in cords. Remove any small items from the room, such as toys, lamps, and small tables and chairs, to avoid any damage or spills.
Prepare for the Cleaning Job
When the professional carpet cleaner arrives, make sure you show them around and point out any problem areas or stains. They will likely have all the equipment they require, but it’s a good idea to ask what equipment they will be using and how long the job will take. Professional cleaners use specialized equipment that relies on suction to remove moisture and dirt from the carpet fibers. They may use attachments to clean around corners and problem areas, or to remove pet hair and dust from upholstery.
After the cleaning is complete, it’s important to refill any equipment that was used, such as the water tank on the cleaning machine. If there are any areas that are still damp, turn on a fan or open a window to circulate the air and help dry the carpet fibers. Check the area for any damage or moisture, and if there are any problem areas that require additional cleaning, be sure to point them out to the professional carpet cleaner.
In conclusion, preparing your carpet for professional cleaning is an important step in maintaining the beauty and longevity of your carpet. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your carpet cleaning experience is a success.