Most people love the look of carpet, but stains and dirt quickly become a big nuisance. A few good cleaners and regular maintenance can keep your carpet looking great.
To start, vacuum regularly with a high-powered machine designed for your specific type of flooring. Vacuuming removes loose dirt and debris that can scratch or tear carpet fibers. Vacuuming also helps prevent stains by keeping dirt from settling into the deepest parts of the carpet where it can cling and be difficult to remove.
Before starting on a serious cleaning job, read the care instructions carpet cleaning toronto on your carpet and rug. This will help you avoid using the wrong type of cleaner and may alert you to any materials that require special handling or professional assistance. You should also test any new carpet cleaner on a small hidden spot to ensure it doesn’t discolor or bleach your carpet fibers.
A good stain remover should work well on most types of stains. Many are spray-on formulas that only need to be sprayed on the affected area and allowed to work for a few minutes before wiping away. Others require a cloth or sponge soaked in water and mild detergent.
Some stains need to be treated as soon as possible before they set. If you have a fresh spill, try to blot it up with paper towels or cotton balls until most of the liquid is gone. Then rinse the affected area with warm water, brush strands of the carpet into their natural direction, and dry it with several white paper towels that have been weighted down by a heavy object.
Grease and oil stains are tough on carpet because they contain water-insoluble lipid molecules. Use a product that contains surfactants (compounds that break down the bond between fat and water) to break up the grease or oil and make it easier to clean.
Red wine stains can be especially stubborn because of the organic dyes in certain fruits, vegetables and plants (including pomegranates, beets, tea, red wine and berries). Find a cleaner that contains enzymes or oxygenating agents to break down the stain and lift it from the carpet.
A good vacuum and stain remover are the best tools for the job, but you’ll also need other supplies, including a dust beater or broom, a bucket and water, and a rubber-edged squeegee to collect pet hair. It is also a good idea to have a lint roller handy for quick pick-up of stray crumbs or pet hair between cleaning sessions.
If you’re working with a larger area, consider renting an industrial-sized steam cleaner. Its powerful hot water jets and rotating brushes are more effective at breaking up and removing dirt, and it can reduce the amount of time you spend on a cleaning project. Most machines also have extra attachments like an extended hose or crevice cleaning tool for maneuvering in tight spaces. However, be aware that these can be expensive to rent and require a separate power source.