Carpet Cleaning Basics

Feb 6
10:28

2012

Bob B. Hamilton

Bob B. Hamilton

  • Share this article on Facebook
  • Share this article on Twitter
  • Share this article on Linkedin

It is vital to keep your carpet clean if you want to keep it looking good. Even if it looks good on the outside, it does not mean your carpet is really clean. Soil and germs can accumulate below the surface and build up over time. Here are some carpet cleaning basics you should know about.

mediaimage
It is vital to keep your carpet clean if you want to keep it looking good.  Even if it looks good on the outside,Carpet Cleaning Basics Articles it does not mean your carpet is really clean.  Soil and germs can accumulate below the surface and build up over time.  Here are some carpet cleaning basics you should know about.

Frequent vacuuming is the absolute best way to keep your carpets as clean as possible.  You will be able to remove almost all of the dirt and debris by vacuuming alone.  Make sure you remember to vacuum beneath your furniture too.

Although vacuuming will allow you to remove a vast majority of the debris in your carpet, you will not be able to remove everything.  The best way to get all of the dirt and germs out of your carpet is to steam clean it periodically.  You should be able to find many different stores around your area which will rent you steam cleaning equipment.  You may want to invest in your own equipment if your carpet gets very dirty and you need to clean it more often.

If you ever get your carpet wet during cleaning, it is very important for you to allow it to dry thoroughly.  If the carpet is wet for a period of time moisture will soak down into the backing and pad.  This provides an ideal breeding ground for mold and mildew.  It should not take more than 24 hours for it to dry completely.  You can also set up a fan in the room to help it dry more quickly.

No matter how careful you are around your carpet you may still get a stain on it.  If you rub the stain it will help it to set in permanently.  You may also weaken your carpet's fibers if you rub them too aggressively.  Try to dilute the stain initially with hot water.

If the stain is still fresh, you can also try using plain baking soda on it.  You do not have to combine the baking soda with water or anything else.  Simply put it on the spill or stain and let soak for a few minutes before patting it up with a plain paper towel.

There are all types of stains you can get on your carpet.  These aforementioned methods will not be able to get up everything.  If your carpet is damaged it is best to get a professional to come and clean it up properly.  It is also best to for you to bring a professional in every year or two to clean your carpet.  Doing so will help it last much longer.