Carpet Maintenance
Well-cared-for homes show it, beautifully, right down to their carpeting.
It isn’t just the biggest investment of your life, your home is also one of your greatest sources of pride.
That’s why you do everything possible to maintain its beauty, charm and character.
So read on and learn the many ways you can maintain your carpet investment –today and tomorrow.
Try to stop dirt right at the door.
Place walk-off mats wherever there are entrances to your home from high-soil areas like backyards, garages and so on.
A few dollars invested in these mats can prevent a lot of dirt and grime from being tracked across your beautiful new carpet.
One tool is absolutely essential.
A good vacuum cleaner can be your carpet’s best friend.
Buy a quality vacuum and use it regularly.
There have been significant improvements to vacuum cleaners in the past few years, making them easier to use, and better at doing their job.
They’ve gotten lighter in weight, stronger in suction and loaded with convenience features.
There are even unattended robotic vacuums that can do the work while you’re sleeping!
Thorough vacuuming removes loose dirt and dust from the fibers.
Over time these particles dull your carpet’s appearance; frequent vacuuming maintains the beauty of your floor covering and extends its life.
Zero in on populated areas.
High traffic areas may need more vacuuming more often.
Use a machine with a good beater bar and maximum suction.
And get attached to using the cleaner’s attachments.
They make it easier to clean the tight spots – along walls and up and down the stairs.
Have a vacuum with bags?
Be sure to change them frequently for maximum cleaning efficiency.
Some newer model vacuums have been designed without bags, making the chore of vacuuming even simpler, and more time saving.
Cushion your carpet from wear.
Remember that carpet cushion plays an important role in preserving the look and feel of your carpet.
Investing in a good carpet cushion prevents your carpet from matting and crushing underfoot.
A good carpet cushion also provides ventilation between the carpet and the floor, making vacuuming easier, and more efficient.
Don’t let snags throw you for a loop.
Looped carpets can snag, especially at a seam or a carpet transition.
Don’t vacuum over loose yarn or try to pull out the snag.
Treat it as you would a loose thread on an expensive blouse.
Carefully snip the yarn flush with the carpet and without catching any surrounding loops.
Remember the effects of weight and sunlight.
Another important and often overlooked way of keeping your carpet in top condition is in the placement of heavy furniture.
Heavy furniture can compress, or crush the carpet pile, and leave noticeable indentations that won’t be discovered until you redecorate or move.
So rearrange your furniture periodically.
Carpet that is near windows and patio doors can be subjected to harmful ultraviolet rays.
These rays can deteriorate the carpet’s appearance and ability to withstand wear.
If possible, be sure to use window treatments that offer some protection against sunlight.
With spills, time is of the essence.
Treat them as soon as possible. The longer you wait the more the stain will soak into the fibers.
Immediately blot up as much of the liquid or debris as possible with a dry cloth or paper towel.
Don’t rub or scrub the area with a rag, this damages the fibers and may create a permanent scar.
Use warm, not hot, water to rinse the stained area completely.
Hot water can set the stain and make it difficult if not impossible to remove.
Press clean cloths deeply into the carpet to take up moisture until the stain no longer appears on the cloth.
If a stain remover is needed, blot up excess moisture before applying, work gently and do not over apply the stain remover.
Next, thoroughly rinse the area with warm water, then absorb the excess dampness with a clean cloth.
After your carpet has dried, vacuum to restore its texture and appearance.
Did you know that, in many cases, professional cleaning is required every 18-24 months (and recommended more often) to maintain your manufacturer’s warranty?
Much like for quality clothing, professional carpet cleaning is a must and can extend the look and life of any carpet for years.
Always read the manufacturer’s materials.
Keep in mind that carpet should be treated like a textile product.
Be sure to read the care and maintenance literature provided by the manufacturer because different fibers, styles and finishes can each have their own unique care guidelines.
Consistent upkeep and periodic professional cleaning will keep your carpet beautiful, inviting and durable for years to come.
Depend on us to deliver complete, dedicated customer service during your shopping experience and outstanding, professional cleaning advice later.
That’s a brief explanation of carpet upkeep.
We hope that the information we’ve provided here leads you to a clearer understanding of how to maintain carpeting and underlines the fact that well cared for carpeting can help make your home.