Carpets are a popular flooring option for many homeowners. Aside from adding a touch of warmth and comfort to any room, they also offer a wide range of styles and patterns, making them versatile decorative features. Carpets also provide a cushioned surface for children to play on and can help reduce noise levels in a home, which
As with any type of flooring, carpets are bound to accumulate dirt and debris over time. For this reason, proper cleaning is essential to maintain the appearance and longevity of your carpet, which is even more crucial if it’s your primary flooring. However, it’s easy to make mistakes when cleaning carpets, which can damage or even reduce the lifespan of your carpet. To help you with this, here are some mistakes to avoid when cleaning your carpet:
#1 – Not Keeping Up with Regular Vacuuming
One of the most common mistakes people make when it comes to carpet cleaning is not vacuuming regularly. Dirt and debris can build up quickly in carpets, especially in high-traffic areas. If left unattended, this debris can settle deep into the fibers of your carpet, making it harder to remove.
To avoid this, vacuum your carpets at least once a week, more often if you have pets or children. Use a high-quality vacuum with a HEPA filter to capture as much dirt and debris as possible. You must also vacuum under furniture and in hard-to-reach areas, which are often neglected.
#2 – Scrubbing Vigorously
While scrubbing a carpet stain vigorously to remove it may make sense, this can worsen the problem. Scrubbing too hard can damage the fibers of your carpet, making it look worn and frayed over time. It can also push the stain deeper into the fibers, making removing it more difficult.
Instead, blot the stain with a clean cloth or paper towel as soon as possible. Start at the outer edge of the stain and work your way inwards to prevent it from spreading. If the stain is still visible after blotting, use a carpet cleaner specifically designed for the type of stain you are dealing with. Follow the instructions carefully and avoid scrubbing too hard.
#3 – Using Cheap Carpet Deodorizers
Many people use carpet deodorizers to freshen their carpets and remove odors, which is fine. However, using cheap deodorizers can do more harm than good. These products often contain harsh chemicals that can damage your carpet fibers and leave a residue that attracts dirt and debris.
Instead, look for natural deodorizers like baking soda or essential oils. Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda on your carpet and let it sit for a few hours before vacuuming it. You can also add a few drops of essential oils to a spray bottle filled with water and spritz your carpet lightly.
#4 – Using the Wrong Stain Remover
Different carpet materials require different cleaning solutions. However, using the wrong stain remover can damage your carpet and even worsen the stain. Before using any cleaning solution on your carpet, ensure you know what carpet you have and what cleaning solutions are safe.
For example, wool carpets require a pH-neutral cleaner, while nylon carpets can handle more alkaline solutions. If you’re unsure what type of carpet you have, consult a professional carpet cleaner before attempting to remove any stains.
#5 – Failure to Act Fast Enough
Stains can set quickly in carpets, especially if not dealt with immediately. Waiting too long to clean up a spill or stain can make it much harder to remove and can even set the stain permanently.
Because of this, you must quickly when you notice a spill or stain on your carpet. Blot up as much liquid as possible with a clean cloth or paper towel. Then, use a safe cleaning solution for your carpet type to remove the fibers’ stains.
#6 – Not Hiring a Professional Carpet Cleaning Service
While cleaning your carpets yourself is possible, hiring a professional cleaning service can save you time and ensure your carpets are cleaned properly. Professional cleaners have the equipment, knowledge, and experience to clean carpets thoroughly and safely.
Moreover, professional carpet cleaning services offer additional services, such as deep cleaning, stain removal, and deodorizing. These services can help extend your carpets’ lifespan and keep them looking and smelling fresh for longer.
Conclusion
Cleaning your carpet is necessary to ensure it maintains its quality. You can clean it alone or hire a professional service, but you must act fast, especially if you notice any spills or stains. This way, your carpets will last longer and continue to look and feel great.
If you’re looking for a carpet cleaning service, Superior Carpet Cleaning can help! We use safe and environmentally-friendly cleaning solutions to ensure your home maintains its pristine environment for affordable prices. Call us today at (612) 859-6098 to schedule an appointment!
