Carpeting is a wonderful flooring material because it improves the look of your home, is soft and comfortable under your feet and helps control the noise level in your home. Unfortunately, it is also a large filter that collects massive amounts of bacteria, dirt, dust and debris. Carpet also is susceptible to stains if spills aren’t immediately cleaned up.
Summer is almost here, which means more dirt from foot traffic of children running in and out. The good news is, the following tips will help your carpets cleaner this summer.
Vacuum
The easiest way to prevent a buildup of dirt and dust is to regularly vacuum your carpeting. It is best to vacuum at least once per week to remove dust and keep the carpet looking attractive.
If you have pets, the summer time is typically the time when shedding worsens, which means more hair and dander living in the carpet. Try to use a deodorizer designed for pet odors and vacuum at least twice per week to prevent a buildup of pet hair.
Spills
Food spills can become a serious problem when they aren’t cleaned up right away. When possible, clean the spill up as soon as it happens to prevent staining. Spills that are not cleaned up right away can also cause matting of the carpet fibers, which makes the area more susceptible to collecting dust and dirt.
When cleaning up spills, never rub the area. Instead, gently blot the spill with a towel. Using a solution of equal parts of vinegar and water lightly sprayed on the stain and blotted dry will help prevent wine or other dark-colored foods and beverages from staining. Avoid over wetting carpeting, though. If you fail to remove all of the water, it can soak into the padding and the under flooring, which may lead to mold and mildew.
Foot Traffic
Foot traffic can really wreak havoc on your carpeting. Continuous walking on the carpeting can crush the fibers, making it easier for the dirt and dust to soak deep into the fibers, the padding and under the carpet. If at all possible, ask family and visitors to remove their shoes before walking on the carpet. This will reduce the amount of dirt being brought in as well as increase the lifespan of the carpet. If you don’t want to ask people to remove their shoes, make sure to place a mat outside of entry doors so shoes can be wiped off before entering.
The best way to keep carpets clean, not only during the summer but all year round, is to have a professional carpet cleaning company regularly clean the carpeting. For best results, schedule a professional cleaning at the beginning of summer and again at the beginning of winter. This will help prevent dirt from accumulating, prevent a buildup of harmful bacteria, and make it much easier to maintain the carpeting with regular household tasks, such as vacuuming.
Are you ready for cleaner, fresher carpeting in your home? Contact Chet’s Cleaning Inc. to schedule an appointment today to ensure your carpeting in clean and fresh before the start of the summer season.