Knowing how to clean carpet is a necessary life skill for most homeowners. But, like any domestic job, there can be more to doing it properly than you think. Here at Harts Carpets, we have a wealth of experience in the installation and care of carpets. Below are our top 10 tips on how to clean carpet at home.
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Vacuum regularly
One of the most obvious carpet cleaning tips is to regularly use a vacuum cleaner. We suggest doing any required dusting first, as this can then be vacuumed up. For the edges of the carpet and more inaccessible areas, use a nozzle attachment.
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Use a lint roller
There are times when vacuuming isn’t quite enough, especially for homes with pets. On such occasions a lint roller is a good solution. We recommend that you use gentle pressure to remove the stubborn hairs.
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Try a rubber brush
Knowing how to clean carpet where there’s a build-up of pet hairs can be an issue, so try a rubber brush. These are brushes with rubber ‘bristles’, and they work a treat. A window cleaning squeegee is also effective.
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Carpet cleaners
There are a range of domestic carpet cleaners on the market, which work like vacuum cleaners but with water. These can be an effective solution for tired and grubby looking carpets. (Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions).
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Iron out stains
For stubborn stains, vacuum the area first to remove any grit. Apply a mixture of water and vinegar, and leave for five minutes. Place a clean white rag or towel over the stain, and carefully apply a hot iron. After that, your carpet should be looking as good as new!
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Different rules for different stains
Stains from things like chocolate, dirt and mud should be left to dry before being treated. Dry mud will often vacuum up. Food and drink stains such as tea and red wine should be treated while still wet.
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Removing wet stains
Wet stains should be blotted first with a clean white rag. (A coloured rag could leach dye into your carpet). Secondly, treat the stain with a proprietary carpet cleaner. Avoid ‘scrubbing’, as this could push the stain deeper into the carpet.
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Rubbing alcohol
On tricky stains like nail varnish, rubbing alcohol is an effective solution. Allow the polish to dry and remove as much of the dried material as you can. Apply the alcohol to a clean cloth or paper towel. Then, dab the stain until it dissolves and soaks into the cloth.
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Baking soda freshness
For unwanted marks following pet ‘accidents’, use baking soda. Apply the powder generously to the area and allow to dry and become crusty. Simply vacuum it up, then blot away any remaining moisture.
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Sprinkle and vac
Knowing how to clean carpet and keep it smelling fresh also involves baking soda. There are plenty of other products on the market of course; but, a more cost-effective option is to sprinkle a little baking soda over your carpet before you vacuum. It works a treat!
Harts Carpets and Flooring is a family run business with years of knowledge and experience in the supply of all types of flooring and carpets in Ipswich. Call us for some friendly advice on improving the floors in your home.