Let’s be honest, carpet cleaning often lands in that pesky pile of reluctantly-addressed household chores. Ignoring it can have a negative impact on your living area. Carpet cleaning and stretching trap allergens as well as dirt, causing them to be a breeding place for dust mites. Imagine how a stale smell of cheese can ruin a romantic evening. Yikes! Little attention goes a very long way.
Now, gather round. Not all carpets were created equal. There’s Berber, plush shaggy–each requires unique strategies. You wouldn’t go to a mud run in a black tux, would your? Exactly. A shag might like a deep-cleaning, but how about your delicate Persian Carpet? Not as much. You need to be able to recognize your floor companion and know how to care for it.
One thing that can often be frustrating is vacuuming. People, vacuuming involves more than a quick sweep across the floor. The process is similar to using a detector to search for lost items. Slowly, repeatedly, and deliberately are the keys to success. It’s important to think of this as a relationship that is meaningful, not just a casual encounter.
Have pets at home? Bless the heart. Pet hair adheres to carpets just like a desperate lover. Be prepared for regular de-fuzzing. A rubber squeegee is a great way to lift pet fur before you vacuum. Don’t forget that your neighbor might judge you on how clean the carpets look. Kind of kidding.
Spills, too, can be carpet-destroying. Remember the time you knocked down that glass red wine? You were in panic mode. Let’s start by blotting, not rubbing. Rubbing just spreads around the mess. It is like trying a damp towel to dry off. Take a dry cloth or paper towel, and use it to press the liquid onto the surface. After that, a small amount of baking soda or vinegar can be used to treat most stains.
Not to forget heavy-duty work. Enter the steam cleaning machine. This could be a carpet’s best ally. This device injects warm water deep into carpet fibers while sucking out dirt. If you’re planning to host grandma for her 85th Birthday and need a spotless room, rent or buy this machine. It’s important to read the manual. It’s true, I accidentally steamed one of my cats tails. Both of us were not pleased.
Have you ever heard of carpet cleaning shampoos? For the really grimy situations, a specialized shampoo for carpet cleaning might be necessary. As with humans, there are times when a regular scrub isn’t enough. It’s a great combination with elbow grease. Your carpet will appreciate it.
Let’s talk mold. You’re right, carpets too can become moldy in humid and damp environments. Consider investing in dehumidifiers if you feel like your home is a bog. Mold is not only damaging to carpets but can cause serious health issues. Uninvited Guests, Anyone?
Don’t overlook regular professional cleanings. You have to admit that sometimes a DIY task won’t work. Professionals possess the tools and expertise to go deep and extract any contaminants that may be lurking beneath the surface. Even though it is expensive, you can spend a few extra dollars to make sure your carpet won’t turn into a biohazard.
Here’s one more tip. Drop the footwear! It’s true, socks and indoor shoes are much better for your carpet than grimy shoes. By not allowing outdoor footwear in the home, you can prevent about 75% from dirt. This number isn’t just something pulled out of the hat by a magician; it’s real.
Don’t put off cleaning your carpets. A little effort will make a big difference. You will feel the difference in your lungs and sanity. And yes, even your grandmother will thank for it. Plus, it’s possible that your cleanliness-obsessed neighbour will pay you a surprise call. Happy cleaning.
NAP:
Ultra Brite Carpet & Tile Cleaning North Shore
79-83 Longueville Road, Lane Cove NSW 2066
(02) 8015 5143