|
|
Cleaning Carpet
Home » Flooring » Carpet » Cleaning CarpetThe major disadvantage to carpet is that it is more difficult to clean than are other flooring options. Instead of simply sweeping up dirt, you have to vacuum and take special steps to prevent stains. With the proper practices, however, you can keep your carpet in great shape.
You should regularly vacuum all the carpet in your home (some experts recommend twice a week), particularly high traffic areas. Move slowly and deliberately back and forth over the carpet using a quality vacuum cleaner.
If you have a major spill or stain, spot-clean the carpet immediately. You can purchase carpet cleaners that require you only to spray the stain, wait a few minutes, and then blot up the stain. If you have especially bad stains, however, you may have to take more drastic measures. Websites such as http://www.ehow.com have tips on cleaning everything from vomit to coffee.
On occasion, your carpet may need a deep cleaning, which you can do yourself if you rent or buy a steamer. Remove everything from the room or put plastic film under the legs of furniture. Vacuum the room thoroughly and spray soiled areas with prespray. Then, fill the steamer with hot water and rinse the carpet according to directions. Next, use the machine to extract the water and continue extracting water until no water droplets appear on your hand when you press the carpet. Finally, leave windows open and use fans to let the carpet completely dry before you walk on it again.
You can also hire professional cleaners to steam clean your carpet, even when your carpet does not seem particularly dirty. If you hire professional carpet cleaners, make sure you know exactly what you are going to pay and what they are going to do before they begin. Many carpet cleaners offer services such as color repair, odor control, spot removal, and preventative care, so find out exactly what services you will receive.
Related Carpet Articles