Carpet Care Tips & Tricks

1. Over the counter spot & stain removers are not as good as professional cleaners.  Most over the counter cleaning agents are marketed as a "fix-all" spot or stain remover. Many of the products have bleaching & or reducing agents that hide stains and damage dyes. They can also remove color & cause permanent damage to the carpet fibers & protection due to high pH levels.

2. When a spill happens, get to it right away. Blot the spot with a light colored, dry towel or white paper towel. Never put pressure on a liquid! This pushes the liquid into your carpet fibers and will slowly seep into the pad below. Use only water (sparingly) to clean as soap & detergents can become sticky when left behind in your carpet. Which in turn, attacks more dirt.

3. Vacuuming is an important first step in cleaning. The amount of vacuuming depends on the conditions of the carpet and how it is used. High traffic areas should be vacuumed every other day, as less traffic areas should be cleaned at least once a week. If you have pets, we recommend daily vacuuming of high traffic areas.

4. The nap of your carpet can become flattened. Vacuuming not only cleans the carpet, but actually retains the fibers to stand up properly. The results of a good suctioning vacuum, will be newer looking and easier to clean carpet.

5. A good vacuum should have a rotating brush & industrial motor, which is approved by the Carpet & Rug Institute. HEPA filters provide a filtration down to 3-4 microns. Do not fill the container or bag more than 2/3 full. This helps to prevent loss of suction & the removal of dust mites, fecal matter & tobacco smoke. 

6. When moving furniture, do not shove or scoot it along the carpets, as it is sure to stretch.

7. Throw rugs placed on top of carpeting help to keep the carpet clean. You will continue to have nap wear on both the rug and carpet. So make sure to vacuum, both, the rug & carpeting below.

http://www.carpet-rug.org/