How To Deep Clean Your Carpets

When spot cleaning and vacuuming just aren’t working, it’s likely time to either have your carpets shampooed or rent a carpet cleaner and do it yourself.  Here’s how to give your carpeting a thorough shampoo:

Step 1:  Remove as much furniture from the room as possible. Place plastic under the legs of furniture that cannot be removed.

Step 2:  Vacuum the floor thoroughly.

Step 3:  Test a small area of the carpeting, preferably in a spot under furniture or in a corner, for colorfastness.

Step 4:  Pre-treat any deep stains or discoloration with pre-treat solution that matches the brand of carpet cleaner you purchased.

Step 5:  Fill the carpet cleaning machine reservoir with hot water and mix in a proper amount of cleaning solution.

Step 6:  Follow the instructions on the steam cleaner.  Clean the carpet in even strips. Be certain to run the machine on a “dry sweep” without the water spray after cleaning each portion of the carpet. This will help absorb any excess water from the fibers.

Step 7:  Wipe water or foam from any wood or furniture promptly to avoid damaging the non-carpeted surfaces in your home.  This includes baseboards, chair legs and upholstered furniture.

Step 8:  Allow the carpets to dry completely, typically overnight, before walking on or replacing any furniture.

Spending some extra time and money on deep cleaning can mean extra years of performance for your carpet.  And for tips on buying carpet, click here!

 

Tips for Deep Cleaning Your Carpet

Let’s face it:  Carpet doesn’t stay looking new for very long. Many times, homeowners have purchased a house with sparkling new carpet just to find out that white may not be the best color when you have pets and a house full of kids. Likewise, the brightly colored carpet you picked out when you remodeled your house may simply not look so pretty after a year or two of daily wear and tear. Luckily, deep cleaning your carpet can go a long way to making it look brand new again.

When To Deep Clean Your Carpets

When spot cleaning and vacuuming just isn’t working, it’s likely time to either have your carpets shampooed or to rent a carpet cleaner and do it yourself. You will typically want to deep clean your carpet every 18 to 24 months, but if any of the following apply to your home’s carpet, it is likely time for a thorough shampoo:

• The carpet is no longer the same color as when you moved in or purchased the carpet
• The carpet releases a dust or smell when you vacuum
• The carpet looks matted or has sticky spots
• The carpet has darker patches in high traffic areas or discoloration around furniture

Next week be sure to check back for How to Deep Clean Your Carpets!

And, for tips on buying carpet, click here.