Nothing will beat a professional carpet cleaning service, but in between visits from the experts, you can always make sure you’re doing the most to extend the life of your carpet.
The following hints on carpet maintenance will add considerably to your carpet’s life.
Vacuuming
Weekly vacuuming is recommend to prevent embedding of soil, which is the cause of accelerated wear.
There are three types of vacuum cleaners: plain suction, beater bar and revolving bristle strip. All are effective for regular cleaning, particularly for dense pile carpet. For loop pile carpets only use a suction vacuum. The last stroke of the vacuum cleaner should be in the pile direction. For the best result it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Cleaning
Well cared for carpets may not require cleaning for a year or more. When the carpet begins to look soiled, either have it professionally cleaned or do it yourself with a good quality cleaning agent, being careful to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. No matter how careful you are, there is usually a small amount of residue left on the pile after drying. The residue from a poor quality cleaning agent accelerates soiling.
Wet Shampoo
It is important to use a neutral shampoo (never alkaline) on wool carpets. Never use household detergents and do not use shampoos that smell of ammonia.
To check carpet shampoos:
• Leave a bit in a saucer overnight.
• Pour off the excess.
• Allow to dry.
• Check there is no sticky residue which house dust could cling to.
When using a shampooing machine, follow the instructions carefully. If possible, remove the furniture from the room and vacuum thoroughly before shampooing. Allow to dry overnight before vacuuming and moving the furniture back in place. It is important not to allow the carpet to get too wet because the pile and backing may become distorted.
Aerosol Foam Shampoo
For light cleaning of small areas, aerosol foam shampoos can be used. First test the shampoo for sticky residue that may attract dust. The foam shampoo is usually sprayed sparingly onto the carpet and worked into the pile with a moistened sponge or brush. Vacuum after the carpet is dry. Always check the manufacturer’s directions.
