Carpets make the home more cozy, but they can get dirty easily because of mud and spills. Regularly cleaning them not only makes them look great but also improves their durability and the quality of air indoors. If you are dealing with a difficult stain or simply want to clean your carpet for the season, follow this guide and achieve amazing results without having to hire professionals.
1. Start with Regular Maintenance
The basis of having clean carpets is routine care. Aim to vacuum at least once a week, but twice a week if it’s a busy area, to help remove surface dirt from deeper within the carpet. Make sure that you use a vacuum cleaner with adjustable height so that it doesn’t damage your carpets and do not ignore edges and corners as dust collects there. If you own pets, buy a vacuum cleaner that has a HEPA filter to capture allergens and dander from pets.
2. Tackle Stains Immediately
While spills are unavoidable, prompt efforts can greatly mitigate the extent of damage. To remove as much liquid as possible, Blot – do not rub – the stain using a white, clean cloth. For more organic stains like coffee and or wine, combine one tablespoon of dish soap with two cups of warm water and use a cotton pad to dab the stain. Rubbing cloths can transfer dye to the carpet, so they should be avoided. For pet stains, odor and residue-eliminating enzymatic cleaners work the best. Always remember to pre-test with cleaning chemicals on a less visible area to ascertain colorfastness.
3. Choose the Right Deep-Cleaning Method
Deep cleaning is necessary for embedded dirt while vacuuming clears out surface dirt.
- Steam Cleaning (Hot Water Extraction):
Deep cleanses require either the renting or buying of a steam cleaner. Once procured, fill the machine with hot water along with carpet-safe detergent. Next, slowly stroke over the carpet while overlapping the clean area with the machine. This method is useful for synthetic fibers, steam cleaners do tend to take longer to dry out. - Dry Cleaning (Carpet Shampoo):
Dry cleaning is ideal for carpets made from wool or those that are more delicate, as it leverages little moisture. Apply foaming spray shampoo, scrub with a brush, and after it has dried out vacuum. - DIY Baking Soda Refresh:
To get some quick refreshment, generously sprinkle baking soda over carpeted surfaces, allow for a 15-minute wait, then vacuum. Essential oil can be added for a light scent.
4. Dry Thoroughly to Prevent Mold
Moisture is a carpet’s worst enemy. When cleaning, using fans, dehumidifiers, or opening windows will speed up the drying process. Walking on the wet carpet requires a delay until the floor is completely dry. This prevents dirt from settling. During steam cleaning, the goal is to reach 6-12 hours of dry time based on humidity levels.
5. Know When to Call Professionals
If any of these situations apply, such as noticeable staining or odor issues, hovering advanced equipment can be of assistance. DIY methods can prove useful but prone to failure. With the use of eco-friendly solutions, they can restore carpets. This is also optimal for those who possess antique carpets that require special attention.
6. Prevent Future Messes
Doormats can easily be placed on entrances to control the outside dirt that is being brought indoors. When inside, there is also a no-shoe policy in place. Spendable rugs can be placed in areas that need protection, such as kids’ play areas and dining zones. To extend the lifespan, a carpet lobby spray can be applied to prevent staining and lessen the need for cleaning.
A Clean Carpet Is a Healthy Carpet
Keeping your carpets clean can turn them from dust magnates to more welcoming parts of your home. By completing maintenance tasks on time and dealing with spills as they come, you can beauty and health benefits to your family. Sometimes deep cleaning resets your carpet to where it should be.
Note: Be sure to check for specific instructions from the manufacturer when it comes to cleaning it. Natural fiber carpets tend to require more care so be gentle with them.
