Tips for Efficient Vacuuming

Why is Vacuuming Important Vacuuming is important because it helps maintain and prolong its life. The better you vacuum, the better chance your carpet has at lasting as long as it should. Frequency At the very minimum, your rugs and carpets should be vacuumed once a week. Depending on where you live, you may need to vacuum more frequency. For example, those living in the dessert may experience more dost than those living more north. Other factors to consider include: •    Do you have a baby who is learning how to crawl? A clean carpet will enhance his ability to crawl in a healthy manner and on a clean surface. •    Do you have older children who may make the carpet dirty? •    Do you have a pet who sheds hair? •    Do you suffer from allergies? Allergy sufferers will benefit from A Sample Vacuuming Schedule •    High-traffic areas (such as entrances to rooms) should be pad close attention to. •    Daily - High-traffic areas, areas where pets rest. •    Bi-Weekly -  Medium-traffic areas, such as dens, dining rooms, bedrooms •    Weekly - Light-traffic areas. Use attachments at carpet edges. Method Use slow, repetitive motions, moving from front-to-back in an overlapping sequence. However, do not press down or vacuum over the same spot numerous times. Four strokes is usually enough to pick up all the dirt. Attachments Use your vacuums attachments. If your vacuum doesn’t have attachments, consider getting one; it’s well worth the investment. It's nearly impossible to thoroughly vacuum corners and upholstery without vacuum attachments. A good quality vacuum will come with a number of attachments. Depending on the specific cleaning needs in your home, you should have at least a few of the following attachments: •    All-purpose or universal brush. This attachment removes dust from shelves very easily. •    The crevice tool. This long and thin tool reaches into narrow slots and corners. •    The dusting brush is for delicate items, such as a lamp shade. •    The radiator brush is used for cleaning radiators and narrow spaces. •    The upholstery brush is used for cleaning upholstery. Additional Vacuuming Tips •    Run the attachment along the baseboard while cleaning the edge of the carpet. •    Use the vacuum to clean the vents in your home. •    Replace vacuum bags when they are a little more than half full. •    Pick up small items off the floor that could potentially break the vacuum. For example, metal paper clips, small plastic toys, or rubber bands.