Carpet gets a bad rap for being inherently dirty and difficult to clean. But the truth is, all types of flooring get dirty over time. And keeping carpets clean isn’t any more complicated or time-consuming than maintaining hardwood or tile. It just requires slightly different tools.
With the right equipment and regular upkeep, keeping your carpet soft and lush is surprisingly simple. Here’s how to do it:
Vacuum Regularly
Just like any other type of flooring, the best thing you can do to maintain your carpet’s condition is vacuum regularly. It’s recommended to vacuum once per week to keep dirt, dust, hair, and debris from embedding itself int the carpet and causing damage over time. As for the type of vacuum, a model with a rotating bristle will do the best job of lifting embedded dirt out of your carpet.
Clean Spots and Spills Immediately
Another key tip for maintaining any type of flooring is to clean up spots and spills immediately, and carpet is no different. However, carpet does have a higher risk of staining, which is why it’s essential to have a carpet stain remover or spot cleaner at your disposal. Make sure to use a product that’s approved for your carpet fiber (nylon, polyester, polypropylene, acrylic, or wool). The best products also carry the official Seal of Approval from the Carpet and Rug Institute.
For a liquid spill, start by blotting away the moisture with paper towels or a dry cloth. Don’t scrub, since this can distort the carpet pile and fiber.
Then, use a small amount of cleaner on a white cloth and blot the spill from the edges to keep it from spreading. Keep blotting until you see the spill transferring to the cloth. Next, use a little cold water and blot with a dry cloth until the spill and the cleaner have been removed. Finally, lay a dry towel over the area and weigh it down with a heavy object to soak up any remaining moisture.
Semi-Annual Steam Clean
It’s recommended to steam clean your carpet every 6 months. This will pull out lingering stains along with any dirt, dust, and allergens that have accumulated over time. You can have this done professionally or do it yourself. Portable carpet cleaners can be purchased or rented from places like The Home Depot. There are different options to choose from, so you may want to ask a staff member about which one is most appropriate for your carpet.
In addition to extending your carpet’s lifespan, steam cleaning will maintain your carpet’s warranty. Certain carpet manufacturers require a professional carpet cleaning every 12 to 24 months to maintain the warranty.
If you need help maintaining your carpet or you’re thinking of replacing it, the experts at Flohr are here to help. We’ve been installing carpeting in Austin for more than 20 years, so we can answer any carpet maintenance questions and assist with any flooring-related needs. If the time has come to replace your carpeting, we offer free consultations where we collect measurements and other information to give you an accurate estimate. Give us a call to set up yours today.
