Professional vs. DIY Carpet Cleaning: What You Need to Know

Because area rugs are made of different materials and textures, as well as different sizes, homeowners will need to use a special cleaning method for them. Below are some of the most common types of area rugs and how to clean them effectively more information.

• Side:Silk carpets are soft and delicate, requiring gentle cleaning and gentle pH neutral products.
• Synthetic carpets: Computer-generated rugs are commonly produced using nylon, polyester or polypropylene, and generally these rugs are more durable and stain resistant, making them easier to clean.
• Cotton carpets:Sometimes you can machine wash them, but check the care label.
• Natural fiber carpets (Jute and sisal): Water damage is likely, so natural fiber rugs such as jute and sisal require gentle, low-moisture cleaning methods.

Make a guide to cleaning a carpet

A rug doesn’t have to be difficult to clean. If you follow a systematic approach, you can maintain the freshness of your rug effortlessly.

Vacuum your carpet at least weekly Step #1

Infinite dirt, dust and grime can settle deep into the carpet fibers, causing the carpet to wear out faster than anything else. To prevent this, it is highly recommended that you vacuum your rug regularly:

Use a height-adjustable vacuum; some carpets require a more delicate suction.

Vacuum the rug on both sides if possible; this will remove the hidden dirt and dust.

If you use a brush attachment or lower the suction power on more delicate carpets.

Try to vacuum at least once a week in high-traffic areas, and monthly in low-traffic areas.

Step 2: Shake out the dust

Shaking outside: For the smaller carpets, you can take them into your garden to shake off the dust and dirt. That can be a small but insane part of your carpet cleaning routine:

Drape the carpet over a sturdy fence rail or clothesline.

Beat away as much dirt as possible with a carpet beater or broom.

It is important to air the carpet of any odors and to freshen the fibers.

Shaking and airing your carpet can loosen the dust and other particles, so vacuuming may not actually clean your carpet.

Step Three: Identify stains as you go

While spills and stains can’t be prevented, taking care of them right away can be a game changer. Tips for cleaning up common spills:

• Dab, don’t rub: Blot up the spilled liquid with a clean towel, but do not rub it as this will only cause the liquid to penetrate deeper into the carpet.
• Use the right cleaner: A mixture of detergent and water works for most stains. Stay away from strong chemicals that discolor the carpet
• Testing before use: Always test any cleaning products on a small, inconspicuous area of ​​the carpet.
• Beat gently: Apply the solution to the stain starting from the outside and moving inward to prevent the stain from spreading.

Phase 4: Give the carpet a thorough cleaning every now and then

Vacuuming and stain removal are important, but occasionally more thorough cleaning is also needed to keep it looking as good as when you got it. Based on the process, you can select the deep cleaning methods for the carpet:

Method 1: Shampooing

Choose a carpet shampoo that is suitable for the material of your carpet.

Mix the shampoo with water and apply with a sponge or soft brush.

Apply the shampoo to the fibers without soaking the carpet.

Wipe with a damp cloth and rinse off all soap.

Wait until the carpet has dried thoroughly, then return it and place it back in the room.

Method 2: Steam cleaning

Steam cleaning can be good for synthetic carpets or for virtually ingrained dirt and bacteria:

If you use a steam cleaner, make sure it is set to a low temperature, especially when dealing with delicate carpets.

Apply the steam cleaner section by section, working slowly.

Too much moisture can be harmful to certain types of carpet backing.

Method 3: Go for a professional cleaning

Step 4: Deep cleaning With a carpet you have a few options for a thorough cleaning. If these carpets are delicate, valuable or heavily soiled, a professional carpet cleaning service is probably the best choice:

They have the right tools and solutions that pamper your carpet, but also thoroughly clean it.

They can also remove deep stains and odors that can be difficult to deal with in your home.

Professional cleaning of your carpets should be done every year for up to 1.5 years.

Ultimate advice for caring for your rug

With the right care you will extend the life of your carpet and keep it looking fresh and bright. Use these tips as part of your carpet cleaning regimen:

Tip 1: Rotate the rug often

Turning your rug every six to 12 months will ensure even wear and prevent one spot from fading more than another. This is especially true for rugs placed in high-traffic areas or near sunlit areas.

Tip #2: Protect from sunlight

The colors of your rug may fade over time if you place your rug in direct sunlight. If your rug will be placed in a sunlit room, consider:

This can be done using blinds or curtains to diffuse the stronger rays.

Rotate the rug occasionally to prevent fading.

If necessary, use a UV protective spray for the material of your rug.

Tip 3: Use a rug

Not only does a rug prevent slipping, but it also provides an extra layer of cushioning, protecting the dense fibers of a rug from wear and tear. Choose an underlay that is slightly smaller than your rug so that the edges don’t curl up.

Tip 4: Avoid harsh chemicals

Strong detergents or cleaning agents can affect the quality of your carpet, causing it to lose its shine. Always prefer pH neutral, mild cleaning solutions specifically for cleaning carpets, and avoid using bleach or other harsh things.

Tackling pet hair and odors: Tip 5

This can be a challenge, especially if you have pets; the rug must be free of pet hair and odors. Consider these tips:

An animal hair vacuum cleaner and animal hair dishwasher.

Step 8: Sprinkle baking soda on the carpet before vacuuming to absorb odors.

For a freshly finished scent, consider a pet-specific odor neutralizer.

Carpet cleaning solutions for the home

Do it yourself Carpet cleaning If you want a non-harmful, homemade cleaner, here are some homemade choices that work wonders for cleaning carpets. Some commonly used approaches are:

• Vinegar & Water: Use equal parts white vinegar and water for a mild cleaning solution. Spray and then dab with a clean cloth.
• Dishwashing liquid and water: A mixture of dish soap and water only needs to contain a few drops; This is an excellent solution for removing spills and stains. Do not forget to wash well.

When should you call professional cleaners?

Although routine cleaning can be performed at home, there are circumstances where calling a service provider is the best choice. How to choose between professional cleaning and DIY (for example, if your carpet needs a more intensive cleaning) However, check for the following signs that your carpet could benefit from a professional cleaning:

Odors that linger even after cleaning

Stains that are difficult to remove or have already hardened

Heavy wear, fading, staining or matting

Fine or valuable carpets that require expert treatment

Carpet Cleaning Mistakes: What NOT to Do

Avoid these common mistakes to prevent damage to your rug and get the best results:

Oversaturation: Excessive saturation can damage the backing of the rug and promote mold.

Excessive scrubbing: Scrubbing can weaken the fibers of the rugs and make them frizzy.

Forgot to dry it: Make sure your carpet is completely dry before putting it back on the floor.

Will not do site test: Cleaning agents should always be tested in a hidden area to avoid staining.

Conclusion: Follow to keep your rug aesthetically flawless

You should be able to maintain a rug’s appearance with the right cleaning methods, tools, and maintenance tips to keep it looking healthy and bright for years to come. Periodically cleaning a carpet or cotton swabs is important as it can prevent your homemade allergies and make it a safe abode for your health.

Whether you clean your rug yourself or hire a professional, doing so will protect your investment and keep your rug-worthy space looking chic. For more in-depth cleaning tips and recommendations, click here