The best way to keep your carpets looking their best is regular
vacuuming and quick attention to the inevitable spots and stains. But
even with the very best attention to regular carpet care, all carpets
will need a deep steam cleaning (Hot Water Extraction) every 12 to 18
months to remove stubborn and embedded soil, it may also be required
for warranty purposes. These deep cleaning systems will keep carpets
looking, feeling and smelling fresh and new. The cleaning – either by
wet or dry extraction -- may be done by
professional carpet cleaners,
or DIY ers may tackle the job with purchased or rented equipment. The
best way to find Professional carpet cleaners is through referrals
from friends and family members or even a carpet store. The DIY ers
will be able to hire the correct equipment from any local rental
store, though this carries the risk of over-wet carpets, running the
risk of smells and mould. The essential key to determining what is
the best method for cleaning your carpeting is the construction of the
carpet itself.
Most carpets manufactured today incorporate synthetic fibers, such as
nylon, polyester, or olefin, and most deep cleaning methods are
appropriate for them. In all cases, follow the manufacturers’ cleaning
recommendations. Natural fibers, however, may require special care.
Silk carpets should be cleaned using a dry cleaning process. The
beautiful silks in antique and contemporary area rugs and room sized
carpets can be damaged by high temperatures, sunlight, and high pH
solutions, and the fibers will lose strength when wet. Except for
light spot removal, deep cleaning of silk carpets should be assigned
to
carpet cleaning professionals.
Wool carpets can withstand most cleaning methods. Caution should be
taken with wool however, to avoid excessive agitation and excessive
heat. Do not use cleaning equipment with heavy brushes or beaters on
wool carpet. Wool is also easily damaged by bleaches and or
detergents that are highly alkaline, so be sure to use a pH neutral
cleaning solution on wool. Quick drying is important to avoid
yellowing.
Sisal, jute and other plant fibers, including coconut, ramie, and
hemp, have characteristics very similar to cotton and rayon. Most
cleaning methods are appropriate for these plant fibers, but dry
extraction or dry foam methods are usually recommended. As with
cotton, too much moisture may cause these natural fibers to shrink,
and cause discoloration. To reduce the chance of color transfer, only
use a mild detergent, and dry the carpet quickly. For these
specialized carpets, it is probably best to use a
professional carpet cleaner.
Cotton and rayon, popular both as pure carpet fibers as well as
blended with other fibers, are made of cellulose, a plant fiber, and
can withstand cleaning by almost all methods. All plant fibers are
subject to yellowing if they remain wet too long, and too much
moisture may cause the fibers to shrink. Be careful not to
over-saturate cotton and rayon carpets, and if they do become too wet,
dry the carpet as quickly as possible. As with all but the sturdiest
synthetic fibers, avoid heavy agitation by the cleaning equipment,
which can weaken and damage the fibers.