This tool is a must.
A good vacuum cleaner can be your carpet’s best friend. Buy a quality vacuum
and use it regularly.
There have been significant improvements to vacuum cleaners in the past few years,
making them easier to use, and better at doing their job.
They’ve gotten lighter in weight, stronger in suction, and loaded with convenience
features.
There are even unattended robotic vacuums that can do the work while you’re
sleeping!
Thorough vacuuming removes loose dirt and dust from the fibers. Over time these
particles dull your carpet’s appearance; frequent vacuuming maintains the
beauty of your floor covering and extends its life.
Know where to concentrate.
High traffic areas may need more vacuuming more often. Use a machine with a good
beater bar and maximum suction. And get attached to using the cleaner’s attachments.
They make it easier to clean the tight spots – along walls and up and down
the stairs.
If your vacuum uses bags, be sure to change them frequently for maximum cleaning
efficiency. Some newer model vacuums have been designed without bags, making the
chore of vacuuming even simpler, and more time saving.
The cushion is critical.
Remember that carpet cushion plays an important role in preserving the look and
feel of your carpet. Investing in a good carpet cushion prevents your carpet
from matting and crushing underfoot, as well as offering its own level of soil and
stain protection. A good carpet cushion also provides ventilation between the carpet
and the floor, making vacuuming easier, and more efficient.
Treat snags carefully and surgically.
Looped carpets can snag, especially at a seam or a carpet transition. Don’t
vacuum over loose yarn or try to pull out the snag. Treat it as you would a loose
thread on an expensive blouse. Carefully snip the yarn flush with the carpet and
without catching any surrounding loops.
Understand the issues of weight and sunlight.
Another important and often overlooked way of keeping your carpet in top condition
is in the placement of heavy furniture. Heavy furniture can compress, or crush the
carpet pile, and leave noticeable indentations that won’t be discovered until
you redecorate or move. So rearrange your furniture periodically.
Carpet that is near windows and patio doors can be subjected to harmful ultraviolet
rays. These rays can deteriorate the carpet’s appearance and ability to withstand
wear. If possible, be sure to use window treatments that offer some protection against
sunlight.
Apply this knowledge to spills.
Treat them as soon as possible. The longer you wait the more the stain will soak
into the fibers. Immediately blot up as much of the liquid or debris as possible
with a dry cloth or paper towel. Don’t rub or scrub the area with a rag, this
damages the fibers and may create a permanent scar.
Use warm, not hot, water to rinse the stained area completely. Hot water can set
the stain and make it difficult if not impossible to remove. Press clean cloths
deeply into the carpet to take up moisture until the stain no longer appears on
the cloth. If a stain remover is needed, blot up excess moisture before applying,
work gently and do not over apply the stain remover.
Next, thoroughly rinse the area with warm water, then absorb the excess dampness
with a clean cloth. After your carpet has dried, vacuum to restore its texture and
appearance.
Thorough cleaning calls for the pros.
Unfortunately, time and traffic will take its toll on your carpet. To protect your
investment, cleaning by a reputable, professional cleaner is suggested approximately
once a year.
Call on their knowledge, equipment and experience to do a more thorough job of removing
stubborn stains and embedded soil. But only use the pros when necessary as too much
commercial cleaning can cause your carpet to lose its built-in protection and damage
it.
The manufacturer knows. Read their materials.
Keep in mind that carpet should be treated like a textile product. Be sure to read
the care and maintenance literature provided by the manufacturer because different
fibers, styles and finishes can each have their own unique guidelines.
Consistent upkeep and periodic professional cleaning will keep your carpet beautiful,
inviting and durable for years to come. Keep it a source of pride and comfort, with
and without your shoes on.