subject: Some Handy Advice On Carpet Cleaning [print this page] Your carpet is one of the most valuable assets of your home. Whether it be brand new or inherited from previous owners, you will want to keep in top condition. Regular and thorough carpet cleaning is essential to maintain that fresh, clean look which adds substantially to the appeal of your house.
If you have a busy household, with children or pets, the carpet will obviously need more attention. Try to vacuum at least twice a week and give it a complete shampoo 3 or 4 times a year. This is not as necessary if you don't have any children or animals and in areas of the house which are used less often. Use your own judgement, but a weekly vacuum and annual shampoo is probably a good guideline.
Even if your carpet doesn't look particularly dirty, regular vacuuming is necessary to keep dust and allergens to a minimum and the air in your house fresh and healthy. Move furniture or reach as far underneath as you can, as dust tends to accumulate in places which are neglected. Use a stain remover for obvious marks, following the directions carefully. As an extra touch, spray some carpet deodorizer on to keep smells away.
Despite your best efforts, spillages can occur, and it pays to be prepared in advance. Blot the area with an absorbent cloth and treat with a specialised product. Don't leave the stain to set or rub it too firmly, as this will only make it worse.
Regular shampooing is also necessary to remove older, more stubborn stains, hidden dirt and bacteria. You can hire industrial strength carpet cleaning machines from supermarkets and other outlets if you want a cheaper option. These are effective, but it can be a heavy and time-consuming task. Alternatively, find a commercial cleaning firm and save yourself a big job. Shop around for a good price and check whether your furniture will be moved or not.
This might all seem like a lot of work, but keeping your carpets clean and fresh will improve the overall appearance of your home.
