Carpets are commonly used in households to add warmth and comfort. The plushness also offers a place to sit and relax. However, they are quick to collect dust and grime.
Most carpets become extremely dirty just after 12 months of use. Each square foot can collect a pound of dirt and each inch can house more than 200,000 bacteria. That's dirtier than an average toilet seat!
If you let the carpet be, it can trigger a variety of illnesses and allergies. This is why we have compiled this comprehensive guide for cleaning carpets effectively. From carpet shampoos to natural cleaners, keep reading to learn how to make your carpets fresh and spotless!
When Should You Clean a Carpet?
Typically, a carpet will show visible signs of dirt and stains. You will notice darkened patches, greyness, and soiled areas. Walking on the carpet will make your feet dirty as well.
However, if your carpet isn't looking dirty, you can look for other signs like:
- Odor: A foul smell near or on the carpet indicates a need for cleaning.
- Allergens: If your allergies are triggered or you are sneezing only around the carpet, chances are that it's extremely dusty and needs to be cleaned.
- Wear and Tear: Matted patches, fraying ends, and faded colors are all signs that a carpet has been used too much. It should be cleaned as soon as possible.
You should generally deep clean the carpet every 12 to 18 months. Most people add this task to their spring cleaning routines. Otherwise, if you just celebrated an event or party at home, a quick clean should be sufficient.
While carpets require specific cleaning techniques, many homes also have tile floors that need regular maintenance. If you're looking to keep all your flooring surfaces in top condition, you may also be interested in learning How to Clean Tile Floors. Proper care of both carpet and tile floors will help maintain a clean and hygienic home environment.
What Do You Need to Clean a Carpet?
Before you start cleaning a carpet, it's important to arrange all important tools and materials for the task. You definitely don't want to stop midway and run around the house gathering things – it will spread the mess and make it harder to clean effectively.
Here are the required items for basic carpet cleaning:
- Gloves
- Vacuum or an upright broom with a dustpan set
- Carpet cleaner solution
- Carpet cleaner
- Disinfectant spray
For advanced deep cleaning, the materials will vary according to the chosen method. Please skip to the How to Deep Clean Carpet section to learn more
How to Clean Carpet at Home? Step-by-Step Guide
Cleaning a carpet is very simple and easy. You just need to dedicate some time and be patient to complete the task successfully. If that sounds like you, read ahead to discover the 4-step method for basic carpet cleaning.
1. Prepare the Area
First, clear the area of any furniture and objects. The carpet should be bare with all sides accessible to clean. You should also check the carpet's care instructions to ensure you don't damage it during the process.
Once done, wear gloves and get ready for some cleaning!
2. Remove Loose Debris and Trash
Use a high-suction vacuum to remove any loose debris or trash from the carpet. You don't want the dirt to get mixed up with the cleaning solution later and create a mess.
It's best to move the vacuum vertically and then horizontally. This two-way cleaning method ensures all debris is collected effectively. If you have a vacuum with rotating bristles available, the results will be even better.
However, if you don't have any type of vacuum, you can also sweep the carpet. Just grab a hard-bristled broom like Yocada Push Broom Brush and swipe it across the carpet to gather trash in one corner. Then, collect it in a dustpan and throw it in the trashcan.
3. Use the Carpet Cleaner To Wash The Carpet
Carpet cleaners are vacuum-like devices designed to remove stubborn stains and dirt from the carpet. They work by applying water, detergent, and suction to deep-clean fibres. Carpet cleaners come in various types, such as portable and upright.
To use a carpet cleaner, you will also need a reliable carpet cleaning solution and lots of water. This may get a little messy, so we highly recommend using a high-quality bucket specially designed for this task.
Once you have everything ready, spray cleaning solution and pour water to wash the carpet. The exact method will depend on the cleaner, so make sure you have read the cleaner instruction in advance. After washing, you should let the carpet stay soaked for a couple of minutes and then, use the suction wand to extract the water.
It should come out dirty to ensure the solution is working. Repeat the process until the water coming out is clean. After this, let the carpet air-dry for 6 to 10 hours. If the weather is cloudy or cool, turn on the fans and place a dehumidifier. It will help with drying the carpet in the room.
4. Get Rid of the Germs
Lastly, disinfect the carpet using white vinegar or commercial carpet sanitiser. Just pour the liquid in a spray bottle and lightly mist it over the carpet. Do not spray too much or else, the carpet will develop a weird smell. Let it sit overnight and work its magic on the germs.
How to Clean Carpet Stains?
Soft and pastel-coloured carpets are quick to develop stains. If you're experiencing this problem, choosing natural stain cleaners like vinegar and baking soda is best. Their results are more effective and quick than those of commercial products.
Here's how to use them:
Food and Beverage Stains
For coffee, wine, or juice, blot the stain immediately. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water, apply to the stain, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Blot again and sprinkle with baking soda to neutralize any odors.
Grease Stains
Sprinkle salt generously over the grease stain to absorb the oil. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Afterward, blot the stain with a mixture of 1 cup vinegar and 1 cup water. For tougher grease, you can add a few drops of dish soap to the solution. Finish by blotting dry.
Pet Stains
First, blot up as much of the stain as possible. Mix 2 cups of warm water with 1 cup of white vinegar and apply it to the stain. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to neutralize the odor and disinfect the area. Blot the spot dry. Then, sprinkle baking soda over the area to deodorize and absorb moisture. Vacuum once dry.
How to Deep Clean Carpet?
When it's time for a thorough cleaning, there are three main methods: shampooing, steam cleaning, and dry cleaning. Each offers unique benefits, depending on your carpet type and cleaning needs.
Shampooing Washing
Shampooing involves applying a foamy detergent to the carpet and scrubbing it in with a carpet cleaner. The foam loosens dirt and grime, which is then vacuumed away after drying.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Effective for heavily soiled carpets, especially those with thick fibers. | It can leave residue if not properly rinsed, and drying takes several hours or even a day, which can potentially lead to mildew. |
- Start by thoroughly vacuuming to remove surface dust and dirt.
- Follow the instructions on your carpet shampoo and mix the recommended amount with water.
- Use a carpet cleaning machine to apply the foamy shampoo to the carpet. Work in sections, scrubbing the carpet in a circular motion.
- Allow the shampoo to sit for 10-15 minutes to loosen the dirt.
- Some machines have a rinse function, or you can go over the carpet again with plain water to remove soap residue.
- Let the carpet dry completely, which could take several hours or overnight. Use fans or open windows to speed up drying.
- Once dry, vacuum to remove any remaining shampoo residue.
Steam Cleaning
This method uses hot water combined with a cleaning solution, which is injected into the carpet under pressure. A machine then extracts the water along with dirt.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Deep cleans by removing bacteria, allergens, and deep-seated dirt. It uses less detergent than shampooing and leaves fewer residues. |
Requires significant drying time (6-12 hours). |
- Start by removing dust and loose debris with a vacuum.
- Fill the steam cleaner's tank with hot water and the recommended cleaning solution.
- Slowly push the steam cleaner over the carpet, pressing the trigger to release the hot water and cleaning solution. Make sure you overlap sections for an even clean.
- Pull the cleaner back to extract the dirty water. Repeat the process for deep stains.
- Steam cleaning requires a drying time of 6-12 hours. Open windows or use fans to reduce drying time.
- Once the carpet is dry, vacuum to fluff up the fibers.
Dry Cleaning
In dry cleaning, a cleaning powder or compound is applied to the carpet and worked into the fibres using a machine. The powder absorbs dirt and is vacuumed away after drying.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Quick drying time, often within an hour, and safe for delicate carpets. It's convenient for spot cleaning and maintaining the carpet's appearance. |
It may not remove deep dirt and allergens as effectively as steam cleaning. |
- Begin by vacuuming to remove loose dirt and dust.
- Sprinkle dry cleaning powder or granules evenly over the carpet, focusing on stained or high-traffic areas.
- Use a brush or carpet cleaning machine to work the powder into the carpet fibers.
- Allow the powder to sit for 15-30 minutes, so it absorbs dirt and oils.
- After the waiting period, thoroughly vacuum to remove the powder along with the dirt it has absorbed.
Tips for Keeping Carpets Clean
Cleaning carpets once is not enough. You need to follow certain tips to ensure it stays clean and fresh for a long time. These include:
No Shoe Policy
Shoes carry dirt, bacteria, and even small rocks or particles that can damage carpet fibres over time. By encouraging household members and guests to leave their shoes at the door, you can prevent much of the wear and tear that carpets typically face.
Area Rugs
Using area rugs in high-traffic areas like entryways, hallways, and living rooms can help protect your carpet. Area rugs act as a buffer by catching dirt and debris before it reaches the carpet underneath.
They're easier to clean and replace than carpets too. This makes them a smart investment for preserving your carpet's appearance.
Professional Cleanings
While routine vacuuming and spot cleaning are important, professional cleaning methods – like steam cleaning or shampooing – remove deep-seated dirt, allergens, and stains that regular cleaning can't address.
It's recommended to get your carpet professionally cleaned after every two years. If it's delicate or used occasionally, once every 5 years would be perfectly okay.
Last Words
All in all, cleaning your carpet is very important. If you don't use a carpet cleaner or other deep cleaning method, the dirt will keep collecting underneath and create an unhealthy living environment. So, make sure to clean your carpet every 12 to 18 months.
FAQs
What can I use to mop my carpet?
You can use an electric rotary spray mop with a carpet cleaning solution. However, it is not recommended as excessive water can damage the fibres and lead to mould.
How to clean carpet without a machine?
To clean a carpet without a machine, first sweep to remove any visible debris and trash. Then, use a microfiber cloth and carpet cleaning solution to treat the stains.
How to use a carpet cleaner?
To use a carpet cleaner, fill the machine's tank with water and cleaning solution, run it over the carpet, and then extract the dirty water. Follow with drying and vacuuming for best results.
