A carpet, especially a high-quality one can end up being a significant financial investment. For this reason, it’s important to take care of your carpet to keep it looking good and functional for longer. Here are some tips for the care and maintenance of your carpets.
Tips for care and maintenance of your carpet
No shoes
It’s best practice to have a designated area meant for shoe removal so that they do not walk on the carpet with them. Don’t hesitate to ask guests to remove their shoes. This will keep dirt and debris from accumulating on it. The abrasive action of soil and grit will accelerate wear and tear on it.
Use an underlay or pad
A good carpet cushion or pad or underlay gives better resilience and comfort underfoot. It also minimizes wear and tear and can extend the life of carpets, especially on stairs. Underlays also absorb sound which can be beneficial for people with loud floors.
Cleaning
Carpets get dirty, that’s just a fact of life. Cleaning them keeps them cosy, and clean, and extends their lifespan.
Vacuum your carpet regularly, multiple times a week if you can. This prevents soil and dirt from becoming embedded in the fibres. Vacuum heavy traffic areas at least twice a week. When vacuuming, make sure it’s in the direction of the pile. You can know by touching it, if it’s smooth you’re on the right track and if the fibres feel raised then you’re vacuuming against the pile and should stop. In the absence of a vacuum cleaner, sweep the carpets daily.
Spills happen, blot them out as fast as possible to prevent staining. Wet a towel and dab the affected area immediately.
Rotate the carpet and/or furniture
A carpet should be rotated at 180 degrees every few months. This prevents discolouration in the same area, especially if it is located in a place where it is exposed to direct sunlight. Rotating also prevents it from being worn out in the same spot. Occasionally moving the furniture around also gives the carpet a younger look. It also reduces flattening and indentation caused by furniture that’s been in the same position for a long time.
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Consider using area rugs
A trend that’s currently growing in home decorating is adding rugs to floors including on carpeted areas, especially high-traffic carpeted areas. Not only is it cute and trendy but it also protects the carpet from damage and spills. It also helps that rugs are easier to clean.
Professional cleaning
Cleaning your carpet yourself, no matter how vigilant and thorough you are is not enough. There are areas you and your trusted vacuum cleaner simply cannot get to. You should get it cleaned by professionals at least every 12-18 months. Specialized cleaners are able to release the smallest of particles and the toughest of stains as well as dry carpets in special drying rooms. This washing brings back the vitality of the fibres, as well as the lustre and clarity of the colours.
Repairing
In the event that your carpet is accidentally damaged in an area, consider getting it repaired by a specialist to prevent any spreading.
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