Dirty carpets look bad, and are likewise full of pollutants and grime. These dirt particles imitate sandpaper, breaking down carpet fibers each time you walk on them. That's why it's important to clean carpets regularly.
Vacuuming
The very best way to keep a carpet clean is to vacuum it slowly, back and forth in recurring strokes. How slowly? It should take about 15-20 minutes to effectively vacuum a 300-square-foot space. Doing so gets rid of 83 percent of the dirt and grime in the carpet. In the typical home, vacuuming should be done at least twice a week.
Professional Cleaning
If you want to extend the life of your carpets, it's best to have the carpets cleaned by a professional at least once a year. Most carpet manufacturers recommend the steam-cleaning approach. This permeates deep into the fibers and lifts out the dirt and the many contaminants we track in on our shoes.
Likewise, it removes the majority of the moisture, so carpets dry more quickly. (Check your carpet maker recommendations prior to cleaning.)
Doing it Yourself
Inevitably, there will be times when your carpet requires an emergency cleaning. For larger messes, a DIY steam cleaner works, but do not use the cleaning solution that comes with the steam cleaner to shampoo carpets. This leaves behind a soapy residue that will attract dirt. Instead, use water and and optionally, a drop of dish cleaning agent or a little bit of white vinegar when you steam cleam. Try not to apply excessive water when using a DIY steam cleaner. Water left in the carpet can cause mildew and odor.
If one of those "emergency situation" cleanings is because of muddy footprints, first remove the dried mud off the carpet, then vacuum. Clean remaining stain with the steam cleaner or using water/drop of Dawn solution and a cloth. Blot dry.
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