How to Clean Carpets

The flooring in your home can really take a beating over time. With people walking over it all the time, it's no wonder that dirt and stains brought in on shoes and spills from various sources can turn a beautiful carpet into a dull and dingy sight.

Your home's carpet can have a huge impact on the overall look of the interior. The kind of carpet, color, texture, and other aspects can all contribute to a specific decorating style. Although you might not think about it, your carpet contributes to the look of your home.

But what should you do if your carpet begins to look worn out? You may consider replacing it, but this can be an expensive endeavor. Fortunately, even the dirtiest carpet fibers can usually be cleaned as long as you go about it using the right methods. With a little effort and the correct tools, you can transform your carpet from filthy to like new.

Cleaning your carpet can be an easy process. Consider the following steps when you are preparing to clean the carpet:

• To keep your carpet clean on a regular basis, the vacuum cleaner is your friend. At least once a week, vacuum the carpeted areas in your home to remove dirt and dust that have settled on or into the carpet fibers. By removing these regularly, you will help prevent your carpet from becoming dull and dirty over time, and may help eliminate the need for deep cleaner later on.
• For spots and stains you find on the carpet, you will need a carpet cleaner meant for stain removal. Soak up as much of a spill as you can before attempting to clean, then spray carpet cleaner over the area. Carefully dab at the spot to remove.
• For deep-cleaning a large area of carpet, start by removing as much furniture at possible. You may wish to rent a carpet steamer or shampooer for this task. Go over the carpet according to the machine's directions, then allow the area to dry completely before replacing furniture or walking on it too much.

Remember that a vital part of keeping carpet clean is prevention. Stop dirt from settling into the fibers by vacuuming, and clean up spills as soon as possible after they occur. Deep-cleaning the carpet once a year or so is a good idea, but it can be expensive to do often.