Common Carpet Cleaning Mistakes

When it comes to maintaining the cleanliness and durability of your carpets, knowing the dos and don`ts of carpet cleaning is vital. While regular vacuuming is critical, some techniques for cleaning carpets may be more harmful than beneficial. In this comprehensive guide, we`ll look at several carpet cleaning mistakes that many homeowners make, as well as how to avoid them so that your carpets are clean and fresh for years to come.

Using Salt to Brighten Carpets

Salt is a popular natural cleaner and is believed by many to help brighten carpets. However, because salt can have a stronger effect on carpets, it may not be best to use. Salt thrown onto the carpet is likely to absorb moisture and odors initially, but a residue is left behind that is bound to attract more dirt. Moreover, salt crystals are harsh and can scratch carpets, leading to wear and tear.

Instead of salt, consider brightening professional carpet cleaning solutions. These solutions are created to effectively eliminate stains and brighten carpets without causing harm. Carpet cleaning professionals, such as NJ Carpet Steamers, have the expertise and tools to get the job done correctly and without causing damage.

Steaming Your Carpet with a Clothes Steamer or Steam Mop

Another frequent homeowner error is steaming carpets with a clothes steamer. Although this is acceptable for cleaning hard surfaces, it is not a good idea to use clothes steamers on carpets. The steam can disrupt the delicate fibers of your carpet, cause it to stretch, and harm the carpet.

Just like this, invest in a high-quality carpet steam cleaner or hire a professional carpet cleaning service. Carpet steam cleaners made specifically for carpets create the perfect blend of hotness and suction to remove debris and dirt from the carpet`s deeper fibers.

Professional carpet cleaners are qualified professionals, and they know which method will work for your type of carpet, as heavy cleaning can damage one and not the other. Therefore, hiring a carpet cleaning professional could ensure you a better, near-new-looking carpet without taking time out of your day.

Scrub Carpet with a Scrub Brush Instead

Scrubbing the carpet forcefully with a scrub brush may look like the best way to hang on to those annoying stains. But it does little more harm than good: hard scrubbing leaves carpet fibers frayed and enfeebled, leading to irreparable damage and an aged appearance. Furthermore, harsh chemicals used in conjunction with scrubbing can remove the carpet's protective coating and thus make it susceptible to future stains and fading.

Instead of scrubbing, gently blot stains with a clean cloth or paper towel to absorb excess moisture. For really difficult stains, use a mild detergent and wet the spot (after wiping away any excess with paper towels). In either case, don't rub or scrub the carpet too hard, as this will just pack the stain deeper into the fibers and make it harder to remove. Alternatively, use an electric carpet cleaner with special stain accessories for larger areas.