Carpet cleaning tips

While it’s indeed true that professional carpet cleaning is the route to the best clean – there are great ways to keep it tidy between cleanings, or ways to save your carpet when a spill happens.

First, and probably the most important is to invest in a good vacuum cleaner. The better quality that you buy, means the better it is going to perform. Second, it’s important to always take off your shoes in your home. This will automatically cut back on the amount of dirt and grime that can potentially sneak onto your carpets.
Another important thing to take into consideration is how often you clean it. A typical household usually needs to be vacuumed twice a week – but sometimes we miss a cleaning here or there. It is important to be diligent and thorough when vacuuming, especially when you have children or pets – not only for the health of those in your home, but to keep on top of any stains that may pop up.

When it comes to stains, the best thing you can do is act fast. Blot up as much surface liquid as you can, before the spill begins to spread and penetrate the carpet. Use cold water or club soda to dampen the spill area (always avoid rubbing, or you could risk the chance of deepening the stain or damaging the carpet) and blot again with clean towels or paper towel. You can place weight over the stain to help force the liquid into the towel. Keep repeating the steps until you’ve gotten out as much as you are able (keeping the area moist but not wet is preferable to keep the stain from spreading, as well as helping to stop it from setting).

Dried out stains are sometimes another story. Some are removable using a simple (and environmentally friendly!) cleaning solution of 1 part vinegar to 10 parts cool water, using the same dampen-and-blot system as fresh stains. This works with most water-soluble stains like: pop, jams or berries, food dyes, and mud. Be sure to blot and not scrape or rub as you risk damaging the carpet. Always test in an inconspicuous area of the carpet to be sure the vinegar will not do any damage.