Carpet is a great choice for flooring, as it adds comfort, warmth, and style to any room. However, carpet also requires proper care and maintenance to keep it in good condition and prevent health issues. Many homeowners try to clean their carpets themselves, but they often make some common mistakes that can damage their carpets and reduce their lifespan. In this article, we will share some professional carpet cleaning tips and help you avoid these 4 DIY mistakes.
Mistake #1: Using Hot Water
When it comes to cleaning your carpets, you should avoid using hot water. This is because hot water can actually damage the fibers in your carpet, making them more likely to wear and tear. Additionally, hot water can cause the colors in your carpet to fade, so it’s best to stick with cold or lukewarm water instead1.
Hot water can also activate the stains and odors in your carpet, making them harder to remove. For example, if you have a pet urine stain on your carpet, using hot water will only make it smell worse and set it deeper into the carpet. Instead, you should use a vinegar and water solution to neutralize the odor and lift the stain2.
Hot water can also activate the stains and odors in your carpet, making them harder to remove. For example, if you have a pet urine stain on your carpet, using hot water will only make it smell worse and set it deeper into the carpet. Instead, you should use a vinegar and water solution to neutralize the odor and lift the stain2.
Mistake #2: Scrubbing the Carpet
Another mistake that many DIY carpet cleaners make is scrubbing the carpet vigorously. They think that by rubbing the carpet, they can get rid of the dirt and stains faster. However, this is actually counterproductive, as scrubbing the carpet can cause the dirt and stains to spread and penetrate deeper into the carpet fibers. This can make the stains more permanent and harder to remove later3.
Scrubbing the carpet can also damage the carpet fibers, making them lose their texture and appearance. Scrubbing can cause the fibers to fray, mat, and break, which can make your carpet look dull, worn, and old. Instead of scrubbing, you should gently blot the carpet with a clean cloth or paper towel, working from the outside of the stain towards the center. This will help you absorb the excess liquid and prevent the stain from spreading.
Scrubbing the carpet can also damage the carpet fibers, making them lose their texture and appearance. Scrubbing can cause the fibers to fray, mat, and break, which can make your carpet look dull, worn, and old. Instead of scrubbing, you should gently blot the carpet with a clean cloth or paper towel, working from the outside of the stain towards the center. This will help you absorb the excess liquid and prevent the stain from spreading.
Mistake #3: Using Too Much Cleaner or Soap
Many DIY carpet cleaners think that the more cleaner or soap they use, the better their carpet will be cleaned. However, this is not true, as using too much cleaner or soap can actually attract more dirt and leave a sticky residue on your carpet. This residue can make your carpet look dirty and feel sticky, and it can also cause your carpet to re-soil faster3.
Using too much cleaner or soap can also affect the pH balance of your carpet, making it more acidic or alkaline. This can cause your carpet to lose its color and softness, and it can also damage the carpet backing and padding. To avoid this, you should use the recommended amount of cleaner or soap, and rinse your carpet thoroughly with water after cleaning. You should also use a neutral pH cleaner or soap, as they are gentler on your carpet and less likely to cause discoloration or damage2.
Using too much cleaner or soap can also affect the pH balance of your carpet, making it more acidic or alkaline. This can cause your carpet to lose its color and softness, and it can also damage the carpet backing and padding. To avoid this, you should use the recommended amount of cleaner or soap, and rinse your carpet thoroughly with water after cleaning. You should also use a neutral pH cleaner or soap, as they are gentler on your carpet and less likely to cause discoloration or damage2.
Mistake #4: Not Hiring a Professional Carpet Cleaner
The last mistake that many DIY carpet cleaners make is not hiring a professional carpet cleaner at least once a year. While vacuuming and spot cleaning your carpet regularly is important, they are not enough to keep your carpet in optimal condition. You need to hire a professional carpet cleaner who can use the right equipment and techniques to deep clean your carpet and remove the dirt, dust, allergens, bacteria, and stains that are embedded in your carpet fibers.
Professional carpet cleaners can also apply a protective coating on your carpet, which can help prevent future stains and extend the lifespan of your carpet. They can also inspect your carpet for any signs of damage or wear, and advise you on how to repair or replace your carpet if needed. Hiring a professional carpet cleaner is an investment that can save you money and hassle in the long run, and make your home healthier, more beautiful, and more comfortable4.
Professional carpet cleaners can also apply a protective coating on your carpet, which can help prevent future stains and extend the lifespan of your carpet. They can also inspect your carpet for any signs of damage or wear, and advise you on how to repair or replace your carpet if needed. Hiring a professional carpet cleaner is an investment that can save you money and hassle in the long run, and make your home healthier, more beautiful, and more comfortable4.
Conclusion
Carpet cleaning is not only a cosmetic task, but also a health and hygiene necessity. By avoiding these 4 DIY mistakes, you can protect your carpet from premature damage and keep it looking new and fresh for years. However, you should also remember to hire a professional carpet cleaner at least once a year, as they can provide a deeper and more thorough cleaning that your carpet needs. By doing so, you can enjoy the benefits of a clean, comfortable, and attractive carpet.
