Prolong the Life of Your Carpet

Carpets need to be maintained. Regular professional cleanings are necessary for your carpet’s health, as are maintenance and care between cleanings. Proper routine care of your carpet can prolong its life substantially.

Vacuum Weekly 

Your carpet needs to be vacuumed at least once a week, especially in high traffic areas. Vacuuming keeps unwanted fibers and dirt out of your home. Go over each section of your carpet multiple times to ensure it’s properly cleaned. Depending on the type of carpet, you may need to spend more time going over the sections. A thick, plush carpet will trap dirt and fibers farther down, which will require more than a quick once-over with your vacuum to get out. Take your time and be aware of high traffic areas. For a fresh smell when vacuuming and to combat odors in carpet, add a tablespoon of baking soda to the vacuum cleaner bag.

Clean Immediately After a Spill 

Any spill or accident should be cleaned as soon as possible to maintain and prolong the life of your carpet. When cleaning spots on carpet, be sure to blot the area rather than rub. Keeping accidents contained is one of the best ways to prevent widespread damage. Cleaning from the outside of the area to the inside will also help to contain the damage. When choosing a cleaner to spot-clean stains, it’s important to know which cleaners are best for your carpet and most effective for the stain you wish to clean. There are three main types of carpet shampoos: powder, spray, and liquid. Powder cleaners are best for day-to-day dirt and stains because they don’t need time to dry. You simply sprinkle and vacuum. Spray shampoos work best for accidents like wine or tea spills. Liquid shampoos are good for a variety of stains but often require the use of a carpet cleaning machine rather than just a vacuum. When you purchase a carpet cleaner, it’s also important to check to see if the cleaner is for specific carpet types. The wrong cleaner could do more damage to your carpet than a stain would. In addition, it’s a good idea to test the cleaner on a small area of your carpet that isn’t often visible to be sure there isn’t discoloration or damage before you use it on a more visible spot.

Treat Stains 

There will be accidents that you can’t clean immediately and will inevitably leave a stain. Treating stains is a key element of keeping your carpet in the best condition possible. When treating stains, avoid abrasive cleaners that may damage the fibers of your carpet. Bleach should be avoided as it causes damage and discoloration. Laundry detergent may seem like a good idea, but should also be avoided because it forms suds, which can lead to moisture and mold problems under the surface. Baking soda, vinegar, and warm water are your cleaning friends when it comes to spills, stains, and odors.

Manage High Traffic Areas 

High traffic areas can quickly show the age of your carpet. To keep carpet looking fresh and extend its life, frequently move furniture to change sitting areas and pathways. If you can move or rotate furniture every six months, this will prevent wear and tear. Another way to prevent damage on high traffic areas is to add rugs or carpet runners. When placed over areas that have unavoidable frequent foot traffic, the rugs take the brunt of the pressure and damage.

Between professional cleanings, your carpet needs your attention. Routine care can help your carpets live their longest life. Professional and day-to-day cleanings go hand in hand to keep your carpet and home as clean and fresh as it can be. For more tips on how to maintain your flooring, subscribe to our blog!