With spring almost here, it’s time to think about spring cleaning. From power washing the exterior to deep cleaning the interior, when it’s time to open the windows, many homeowners also invite professionals in to do what they do best to ensure that their home gets a thorough cleaning.
Carpets require professional service one to two times a year, to not only deep clean and sanitize but to extend the life of a carpet. Besides hiring a professional, there are steps a homeowner can take to also help a carpet last longer. The most important thing for a carpet is regular vacuuming. A good vacuuming daily — especially for the high traffic areas — will remove dry soil and debris that can scratch and damage the fibers. Once damaged, light reflects differently off those fibers and a “wear pattern” will begin to show. Regular vacuuming will help prevent that from happening, and will lift the fibers regularly. When that regular maintenance is combined with a professional cleaning every 6 –12 months, your carpets can last for many years.
It’s also important to consider high-traffic areas, where the carpet meets directly to a door such as from your kitchen to the outside or from a bath to a hallway or bedroom. A doormat or throw rug should be placed at those spots, to catch as much dirt and debris as possible. This will protect the carpet where it is most vulnerable and susceptible to damage. Throw rugs should be laundered or replaced as needed, so they can continue to protect the carpet.
When purchasing new carpet, it’s always important to get the best padding you can afford. An important purpose of padding is to protect your carpeting by keeping the underside of your carpet (its backing) from wearing against the bare floor. It will also help with the impact of heavy furniture and foot traffic. Commercial applications do have glue down options but for residential use, it’s best to discuss with your carpet installer what your best options are. Don’t settle for “free padding” that big-box stores advertise.
The combination of regular vacuuming, higher-grade padding, strategic rug placement and semiannual or annual professional cleaning will help keep your carpets and house cleaner longer, and will also extend the life of your carpet, so you can enjoy it for many years.