Dust accumulates more on carpet surfaces than one can imagine. Therefore, cleaning the carpet becomes an essential part of home cleaning. While this process may seem rather cumbersome, it is quite easy if one follows certain strategies. One doesn’t even need abrasive cleaning solutions. Carpets require gentle products, careful handling, and consistent cleaning. Additionally, one should be aware of some carpet cleaning mistakes that are easy to overlook:
Rubbing on stains
A common mistake when cleaning carpets is to rub on stains after pouring a solution on them. Rubbing can damage the carpet’s fabric; it doesn’t really remove the strain – it only pushes it deeper into the fibers and may cause a fray. The right way to remove carpet stains is to blot them with a sponge, paper towel, or clean cloth.
Failing to do a spot test
A spot test is necessary to determine whether a certain cleaning solution suits one’s carpet. When one uses the solution directly, the entire carpet may get ruined if the solution isn’t suitable. On the other hand, a spot test only damages a small patch of the carpet, which can prevent fiber loss and bleaching.
Using the wrong tools to clean the carpet
Machines to clean carpets are not always necessary. Using the wrong machines or tools can damage the carpet’s fibers and trigger other problems. It is best not to use a machine if one isn’t sure if it will suit one’s carpet. It is better to seek a professional’s guidance before using a tool on carpets.
Not blotting stains promptly
When one leaves stains on carpets for too long, they may form clumps and settle between the carpet’s fibers. So, it is best to blot stains efficiently to prevent such problems. Also, it is good to check the carpet regularly for any stains instead of discovering them accidentally.
Using too much water to clean the carpet
Of course, water is the most obvious way to clean any surface, including carpets. However, using too much water to clean carpets can damage the carpet’s adhesive and cause the growth of mold and mildew over time. So, water should be used as little as possible while cleaning carpets.
Using carpet deodorizers
Affordable carpet deodorizers may seem like the ideal carpet-cleaning option, but they do more harm than good. To begin with, they can damage one’s carpet considerably with time and may even bleach the rug. Steamers are much safer alternatives and highly effective in removing stains and keeping carpets clean.
Not seeking professional assistance
DIY cleaning solutions are effective and affordable, but certain things are best left to experts. So, one shouldn’t hesitate to seek a professional’s guidance when needed. It is also good to have a professional generally examine the carpet every once in a while to detect any issues that may be easy to miss.
