Carpets are one of the most important pieces of furniture in a home. Not only do they add comfort and style, but they also play an important role in protecting flooring from dirt, dust, and other debris.
Unfortunately, carpets can also be difficult to clean, and if not done properly, can actually end up making your floors dirtier. To help you avoid this mistake, here are four mistakes to avoid when cleaning your carpets.
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1. Not hiring a professional carpet cleaning company
One of the biggest mistakes you can make when it comes to cleaning your carpets is not hiring a professional carpet cleaning company. While it may seem like a hassle or an unnecessary expense, the truth is that professional carpet cleaners have the experience and expertise necessary to get your carpets looking and smelling like new again. Not to mention, they also have access to high-powered equipment and cleaning solutions that you likely don’t have at home.
According to the Carpet Cleaning NYC website, “Trying to clean your carpets on your own is a daunting task, and if not done correctly, can actually end up making them dirtier.” When in doubt, it’s always best to leave the job to the pros.
2. Not pre-treating stains
Another mistake to avoid when cleaning your carpets is not pre-treating stains. This is especially important for tough stains, like coffee or wine stains.
To pre-treat, a stain simply applies a small amount of carpet stain remover to the area and allows it to sit for several minutes before proceeding with the cleaning process. This will help to loosen the stain and make it easier to remove. Also, be sure to use a clean cloth or sponge when pre-treating, as you don’t want to spread the stain.
3. Over-wetting the carpet
When cleaning your carpets, it’s important to avoid over-wetting them. This can cause the carpet fibers to swell and become damaged, as well as lead to mold and mildew growth. When using a carpet cleaning machine, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and only use enough water to wet the carpet, not soak it.
Additionally, be sure to vacuum the carpet after cleaning to remove any excess water. If your carpet is still wet after vacuuming, you can place a fan in the room to help speed up the drying process.
4. Not using the right cleaning solution
One of the most common mistakes people make when cleaning their carpets is not using the right cleaning solution. Different types of carpets require different solutions, so be sure to do your research and choose one that’s specifically designed for your type of carpet.
Additionally, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when using any cleaning solution, as using too much or too little can actually cause more harm than good. Also, always test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the carpet before using it on the entire surface to ensure it won’t cause any damage.
5. Not using a carpet protector
Another mistake to avoid when cleaning your carpets is not using a carpet protector. Carpet protectors are specially designed to create a barrier between your carpets and dirt, dust, and other debris. This can help to extend the life of your carpets and keep them looking and smelling fresh for longer.
Carpet protectors are available in a variety of formulations, so be sure to choose one that’s specifically designed for your type of carpet. Also, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when applying a carpet protector, as using too much or too little can actually cause more harm than good.
6. Not following up with maintenance
Finally, one of the biggest mistakes you can make when it comes to cleaning your carpets is not following up with maintenance. Even if you hire a professional carpet cleaning company, your carpets will eventually get dirty again. To keep them looking and smelling fresh, be sure to vacuum on a regular basis and spot-clean spills and stains as soon as they happen.
Additionally, you may want to consider having your carpets professionally cleaned every 12 to 18 months. By following these simple tips, you can keep your carpets looking and smelling like new for years to come.
Why You Should Vacuum Your Carpets Regularly
One of the best ways to keep your carpets clean is to vacuum them on a regular basis. vacuuming not only removes dirt and dust, but also helps to remove pet hair, pollen, and other allergens that can trigger allergies or asthma. Additionally, vacuuming on a regular basis can help to extend the life of your carpets by preventing them from becoming matted and stained. For best results, aim to vacuum your carpets at least once a week.
Carpet Cleaning Tips for Pet Owners
If you have pets, it’s important to take special care when cleaning your carpets. Pets can track in dirt and mud, as well as shed their fur, which can leave your carpets looking and smelling less than fresh. To keep your carpets clean with pets in the house, be sure to vacuum on a regular basis and spot-clean any spills or accidents immediately. You may also want to consider investing in a carpet cleaner that’s specifically designed for pet hair.
When to Call a Professional Carpet Cleaner
There are some instances where it’s best to call a professional carpet cleaner. If your carpets are extremely dirty or stained, for example, it’s likely that you won’t be able to clean them effectively on your own. Additionally, if you have allergies or asthma, you may want to consider hiring a professional carpet cleaner to remove any allergens from your home. Professional carpet cleaners also have access to powerful cleaning solutions and equipment that can help to extend the life of your carpets.
Cleaning your carpets can be a daunting task, but it’s important to keep them looking and smelling fresh. To avoid making common mistakes, be sure to vacuum on a regular basis, use the right cleaning solutions, and follow up with maintenance. You may also want to consider calling a professional carpet cleaner if your carpets are extremely dirty or stained. By following these simple tips, you can keep your carpets looking and smelling like new.