After investing in service from a professional carpet cleaner, the last thing you want is for your carpets to quickly return to their previous state of dirt and grime. To make the most of your cleaning and extend the life of your carpets, it is crucial to implement a comprehensive maintenance routine. In this article, we will explore essential tips to keep your carpets fresh, clean, and looking like new.
Avoid Heavy Traffic Areas – Immediately after carpet cleaning, it is best to avoid heavy traffic. Allow sufficient time for the carpets or rugs to dry completely before resuming regular use. This will help prevent dirt and debris from being tracked onto them, ensuring the cleaning results last longer.
Place Doormats at Entrances – A simple yet effective way to minimise soiling is by placing doormats at all entrances. Mats act as the first line of defence, trapping dirt and moisture from shoes before they reach your carpet. Encourage family members and guests to wipe their feet thoroughly before entering the house or even better yet why not implement a “shoes-off” policy in your home? Footwear can track in a significant amount of dirt, oils, and chemicals from outside, leaving residues on your freshly cleaned carpets. Establishing a dedicated area for shoes near the entrance and providing slippers or socks for indoor use can significantly reduce the amount of dirt brought into your living spaces.
Be Careful With Pets – If you have pets, regular grooming and trimming of their nails can help prevent snags and pulls in the carpet fibres. Additionally, it is advisable to keep your pets’ food and water bowls away from carpeted areas to avoid spills and stains.
Reduce Sun Exposure – To minimise fading and discoloration, protect your carpets from prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Consider using window treatments or UV-protective films to reduce the amount of sunlight reaching your carpets, especially in rooms with large windows.
Vacuum Regularly – Frequent vacuuming is a key component of carpet maintenance. Even after a professional cleaning, dust, dirt, and allergens can accumulate on your floors over time. Aim to vacuum high-traffic areas at least twice a week and the entire carpeted area at least once a week. Use a quality vacuum with strong suction power and a HEPA filter to effectively remove particles from deep within the fibres.
Address Spills and Stains Promptly – Accidents happen, and when spills occur, it is essential to act quickly to prevent stains from setting in. Blot the spill gently with a clean, absorbent cloth or paper towel to absorb as much liquid as possible. Avoid rubbing the spill, as it may spread the stain further. Once most of the spill has been absorbed, use a mild cleaning solution or a mixture of vinegar and water to clean the area. Test any cleaning solution on a small inconspicuous area of the carpet first to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration.
Regularly Rotate Furniture – Heavy furniture can leave permanent indentations on your carpets over time. To prevent this, make it a habit to rearrange your furniture periodically, redistributing the weight and pressure on different areas of the carpet. This simple step can help maintain an even and uniform appearance across the entire space.
Consider Carpet Protectors – Carpet protectors, also known as carpet sealants or carpet guards, are transparent coatings applied to the carpet fibres after a professional cleaning. These products create a protective barrier, repelling spills and stains and making it easier to clean up accidents. While carpet protection sprays do wear off over time, they can significantly extend the life of your carpet and maintain its freshly cleaned look. They also make any future cleaning much quicker and easier.
Use Area Rugs and Runners – Strategically placing area rugs and runners in high-traffic areas can help reduce wear and tear on your carpets. Area rugs not only add style to your living spaces but also act as a protective layer. Clean the area rugs regularly and shake them outdoors to remove trapped dirt and debris.
Professional Maintenance – While regular vacuuming and spot cleaning are essential, professional maintenance is equally important. Engage in regular carpet cleaning to deep-clean your carpets and remove deep-set dirt and allergens. The frequency of visits will depend on factors such as the material, foot traffic, and the presence of pets or allergies. As a general guideline, consider scheduling a trained carpet or rug cleaner to visit at least once every 12 to 18 months. Lastly, consider periodic carpet grooming to revitalise the appearance of your carpets. Grooming, also known as carpet raking or pile lifting, involves using special tools to realign the carpet fibres, which can help restore the original texture and appearance.
