Carpet Cleaning Tips – Step One: Vacuuming

For most of us, vacuuming is the first, and most essential, step in maintaining our carpet. Remember, a little preventative work on your behalf will go a long way. Let’s make sure we can make the most of your valuable time and clean your carpets efficiently. Follow the guidelines below to ensure you vacuum more effectively and keep your carpet cleaner longer!

• You should vacuum your carpets in at least once a week, and more often in high traffic areas. Frequent vacuuming prevents dirt and dust buildup that would otherwise cut into the carpet fibers and extends the life of the carpet. From time to time, be sure to use your vacuum’s extension piece to clean around baseboards and other hard-to-reach areas.
• If you have a large area of ​​carpet to vacuum, try compartmentalizing that larger area into smaller, more manageable units. Be sure to thoroughly clean each smaller drive before moving on to the next.
• Take your time! A quick pass with your vacuum isn’t enough to deep clean your carpet (no matter what your commercial vacuum says). Slowly move the vacuum over the area to allow the suction to really pick up embedded dirt and particles.
• In high traffic areas, use an overlapping crisscross pattern to ensure you get to dirt and grime.
• Dirt and dirt retardants such as “Scotchgard” can be used on new and freshly cleaned carpet, but remember to read the manufacturer’s instructions very carefully before applying anything that may damage your carpet. As mentioned above, a little preventative work on your behalf will go a long way.
• If you have a vacuum that uses a vacuum bag, feel free to add a little baking soda into the bag to combat odors. If you have a bagless vacuum, you can sprinkle some baking soda on the carpet before vacuuming.

As you can see, there are numerous ways to improve on the tried and tested approach of simply mindlessly “pushing” the old vacuum around your home. We hope you can use the above guidelines to make the most of your busy schedule and start vacuuming quickly and efficiently. Once again, if you stick to a strict vacuuming regimen, your carpet will thank you and reward you with long-lasting use. Best of luck as you strive to keep your rugs in top shape!