Cleaning carpets

[Babc...@gmail.com]

I have two very used rooms in our home and I was wondering what the
best carpet cleaning options would be.. The carpets are about 5 years
old and I do not want to hire someone every 6 months.. Thanks..

[Don Aslett/Marsh Creek Press]

Hi there!

This is a pretty common problem to have but the answer is fairly
simple. There are three basic steps to properly maintain your carpets
and keep them looking their best:

1. Regular Vacuuming
2. Prompt Spotting
3. Occasional Shampooing

Regular vacuuming is probably the #1 thing you can do to keep your
carpets in top condition. Frequent removal of the dirt and dust that
accumulates in the carpet pile, eventually staining or discoloring it,
is a quick and easy way to protect your carpet investment for the long
haul.
Also, rapid removal of spills and accidents will help your carpet keep.
The longer a spill has to set before removal the more difficult it will
be to remove in the end. The first rule of spot removal is quick
response.

Lastly, as much as most people don't like to hear it, occasionally
you will need to shampoo your carpets to keep them looking good.
Vacuuming is great but it just can't collect ALL the dirt and residue
that clings to the carpet fibers like a professional grade carpet
cleaner can. However, carpet that is frequently vacuumed and not in
high traffic areas can go as long as two years without shampooing.

When it comes to this step there are a number of ways to go about it.
You can do it yourself, or hire it done, and there are pros and cons to
each. Often you can rent professional style equipment from janitorial
supply companies like the Cleaning Center or many local supermarkets
and do the job yourself, when you have the time to do it. The cost is
reasonable, but it is quite labor intensive so be ready for that.

On the other hand you can hire your carpets professionally cleaned, it
may cost a little more money, but typically a pro will do a better job
of getting up stains and removing all remaining shampoo and soap
residue from the carpet. This will leave you feeling better about the
job once its been completed, not to mention save your back.

So the choice is yours but by keeping up on the first two steps you
will be able to avoid the necessity of frequent carpet shampooing, and
your carpet will last longer and look better!

Good Cleaning!
Don

[Babc...@gmail.com]

thanks Don,
Steps 1 and 2 are not a problem but with 8 people and one dog in the
house... Step 3 seems to come quicker because I just do not feel that
the rug is clean.
Lise