While it may not feel like it's time for spring cleaning yet, your carpets could likely use some TLC. They experience regular use nearly every day of the year, and almost every season can present some type of concern. Whether you need to remove allergens or wash away build-up from outdoor ice melt, here are a few top carpet cleaning tips!  

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Carpet Cleaning Basics

Carpet cleaning is much more than vacuuming, but that's a great first step.
Vacuum Regularly
All of your carpets and rugs can benefit from regular vacuuming. High traffic areas especially. Most experts recommend vacuuming once per week at a minimum. Places frequented by pets or children may need to be vacuumed twice a week. Wearing shoes in your home can necessitate more frequent vacuuming!  
Carpets tend to hold onto dirt and debris, which gets trapped in their fibers. In addition, allergens, germs, and pollutants from the environment can make their way into your rugs. Vacuuming helps to remove surface materials and prevent build-up.  

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Spot Treat As Necessary

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Vacuuming doesn't work so well for spills, stains, and spots. Instead of waiting for your weekly cleaning schedule, treat spots immediately. Depending on what type of liquid or substance caused the stain, you'll need to use various techniques. First, regardless of the kind of liquid, blot instead of scrub to soak up excess moisture. Then, apply a cleaner of choice, such as one specifically formulated for pet stains. The instructions will likely tell you to dab the cleaner or let it sit to work its magic. Finally, rinse it with lukewarm water and then blot it to dry.  

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Deep Clean Annually

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You can either steam clean your carpets yourself or hire a professional to do it. Steam cleaners (both home models and commercial) use water, heat, and suction to clean fibers thoroughly. The process helps get below the surface layer of the carpet, penetrating deeper to remove spots, stains, odors, and debris. An annual deep clean will not only help to remove dirt and grime but also deodorize your rugs as well!  

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Maintenance Tips

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Cleaning your carpets regularly will help extend their lifespan, as can these regular maintenance tips.  

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Leave Shoes at the Door

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Going without shoes in your home can have many benefits. First, it prevents you from tracking dirt, germs, and environmental pollutants into your home. Shoe removal is imperative if your children play and lie on your floors. Taking off your shoes can also help extend the lifespan of your carpet, reducing how many harsh substances, like road salt, come into contact with your rugs.  

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Rearrange Furniture from Time to Time

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How often do you rearrange your furniture? Did you know it's beneficial for more than just aesthetic purposes? Moving large objects can redirect foot traffic, preventing a path from being worn in the carpet. Your carpet won't look worn down quickly if you switch up which areas receive regular wear and tear.  

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Know Your Carpets Lifespan

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While these tips can help keep your carpets looking and feeling great, it's important to remember that fibers don't last forever! Most carpeting can last anywhere from five to fifteen years. When you have visible damage, stains that you can't remove, or odors that won't go away, it's time to replace your carpeting for the safety and comfort of your family!

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