Carpet Care

How To Look After Your Carpet

Your carpet is more than just a decorative element in your home—it’s a fundamental part of your living space that contributes to comfort, insulation, and style. But with daily foot traffic, spills, and general wear and tear, it can be easy for carpets to lose their lustre over time.

To keep your carpet looking fresh and vibrant for years to come, proper carpet care is essential. In this blog, we’ll explore practical tips and expert advice on how to maintain your carpet’s appearance and prolong its lifespan. From routine cleaning techniques to handling spills and stains effectively, we’ve got you covered. 

Preventing carpet stains is often easier and more effective than trying to remove them later. Here are some tips to help prevent carpet stains:

  • Shoes Off Policy: Encourage family members and guests to remove their shoes before entering carpeted areas. Shoes can track in dirt, mud, and other substances that can stain and damage carpets.
  • Regular Vacuuming: Vacuum carpets regularly to remove dirt, dust, and debris that can lead to stains. High-traffic areas may need more frequent vacuuming. We recommend using a good-quality vacuum or hiring a professional cleaning company to vacuum your carpets weekly.
  • Immediate Action: Attend to spills and accidents immediately. Blot the spill with a clean cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible before it sets into the carpet fibres.
  • Use Carpet Protectors: Apply carpet protectors or stain-resistant treatments as the carpet manufacturer recommends. These can help repel spills and make stains easier to clean. Some professional carpet cleaning companies may also provide this service.
  • Proper Maintenance: Get your carpet professionally cleaned regularly. At Spruce, we recommend professionally cleaning your carpet yearly. This helps keep your carpet in good condition and makes it easier to remove stains when they do occur. We do not recommend DIY carpet machines such as “Rug Doctors”.
  • Pet Management: If you have pets, train them to use designated areas and clean up accidents promptly. Consider using pet-friendly carpet cleaners and treatments.
  • Cover High-Risk Areas: To protect the carpet from spills and stains, use rugs or mats in high-risk areas, such as under dining tables or in children’s play areas. For heavy furniture, use furniture coasters.
  • Be Careful with Food and Drinks: If possible, avoid eating or drinking over carpeted areas, especially foods and beverages that are likely to stain (like red wine, coffee, or tea).
  • Regular Inspections: Inspect your carpet for signs of wear, damage, or potential stains. Address any stains promptly to prevent them from becoming more difficult to clean.

Incorporating these preventive measures into your carpet maintenance routine can significantly reduce the likelihood of stains damaging your carpet and keep your carpets looking clean and fresh for longer.

Stain Removal

How To Clean Carpet Stains

Removing tough stains from carpets can be challenging, but here are some effective methods you can try:

  • Blot, Don’t Rub: When dealing with a stain, always blot it with a clean cloth. Rubbing can spread the stain and damage carpet fibres.
  • Use Soda Water: For fresh stains like wine or beer, pour soda water on the area and blot with a clean cloth. Soda water carbonation helps lift the stain.
  • White Vinegar Solution: Create a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water. Spray or pour it on the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then blot it with a cloth. Repeat if necessary.
  • Baking Soda Paste: For tough stains like pet urine, make a paste of baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stain, let it dry, then vacuum it up. This helps absorb odours and lift the stain.
  • Hydrogen Peroxide: For heavy-duty stains, mix hydrogen peroxide with a small amount of dish soap. Test in an inconspicuous area first, then apply to the stain. Blot gently and rinse with water. Wear gloves and safety glasses. 
  • Carpet Cleaning Products: Many carpet cleaning products are available specifically for tough stains. Follow the instructions on the product carefully.
  • Steam Cleaning Machine: If you have access to a steam cleaner, this can be very effective for deep cleaning carpets and removing tough stains. The Bissell SpotClean is a great little machine for small stain removal jobs.

Always remember to test any cleaning solution in a small, inconspicuous area of the carpet first. This simple step can prevent potential damage or discolouration.

Conclusion

With these tips and tricks, you’re now equipped to tackle everything from everyday cleaning to those unexpected spills with confidence. Remember, a little regular care goes a long way in preserving the beauty and longevity of your carpet. 

By staying on top of routine maintenance and addressing issues promptly, you’ll ensure your carpet continues to enhance the comfort and style of your home for years to come. So, go ahead and give your carpet the love it deserves.

If you are still struggling to remove those tough stains or want to know more about our professional carpet cleaning services, please get in touch! We’d love to help you remove those stubborn stains or provide our advice. You can also book a carpet cleaning service from our booking page.