As a professional carpet cleaner, I have seen the difference that regular cleaning can make in the appearance and longevity of carpets.
No matter how much you dust, vacuum, or attempt DIY methods, sometimes it's best to call in the experts for a thorough cleaning.
Over time, tough challenges such as cigarette smoke, pet hair, and dust mites can build up on carpets and rugs, making an annual cleaning essential for maintaining a clean and healthy space. While the bulk of the work will be done by your cleaning team, there are steps you can take to prepare your home for their visit and ensure a successful outcome. It's important to discuss any specific requests or concerns with your cleaners beforehand. In most cases, furniture should only be moved if requested by the company.They will likely come to measure your space before providing a free quote. Whenever contractors are working in your home, it's important to store fragile items to avoid damage. If furniture needs to be moved, remove all decorative elements to make the process easier for the cleaners. Once the carpet cleaning is complete, your professional may offer tips for maintaining the carpet's condition. Depending on the method used (steam or dry cleaning), it may be necessary to keep family members off the carpet for up to 24 hours. If you do need to walk on the carpet, wait as long as possible and wear clean socks or slippers to avoid tracking in dirt or debris.
A quick vacuum before the professionals arrive can also help remove any surface-level debris and make their job more efficient. By removing this initial layer of dust and dirt, the cleaners can focus on tackling more stubborn stains. Most carpet manufacturers recommend deep cleaning every 12-18 months. However, this frequency may vary depending on your specific circumstances. For example, homes with heavy foot traffic or pets may require more frequent cleanings (every 6-12 months).
Ultimately, the decision should be based on your lifestyle and personal preferences. Regular cleanings are important for extending the life of your carpets. Over time, dirt and debris can become embedded in the fibers, making it more difficult to remove. By having your carpets professionally cleaned at least once a year, you can help preserve their quality and appearance. If you rarely vacuum, it's even more important to schedule regular cleanings to prevent buildup. Fortunately, frequent carpet cleaning can also help neutralize any biological stains or odors caused by pets.
By properly preparing your home for the cleaners' visit, you can ensure that the job is done efficiently and effectively, resulting in clean and dry carpets. If you do need to spot clean between professional cleanings, it's important to use the right products and techniques. Apply a cleaning solution to the affected area and blot with a clean white towel (avoid using printed or written towels). This will help prevent any dust or debris from falling onto the carpet after it has been cleaned. Many carpet manufacturers have specific cleaning requirements in order to maintain the warranty. It's important to follow these guidelines to ensure that your warranty remains valid.
However, no matter how often you vacuum or follow these guidelines, it's inevitable that you will eventually need to call in a professional for a deep cleaning. If you find yourself needing an emergency cleaning due to mud prints or other stains, there are ways to save time when using a steam cleaner. And remember, lighter-colored carpets will typically require more frequent professional cleanings than darker ones. While the cost of carpet cleaning is usually based on square footage rather than hourly rates, taking care of initial vacuuming can help the cleaners focus on the shampooing process. This will result in a more thorough and efficient cleaning.
