Carpets add warmth and comfort to any room. However, they can easily become dirty from foot traffic, spills, pet accidents, and more. Regular cleaning keeps carpets looking their best and helps extend their life. Follow this comprehensive guide to learn various methods for cleaning carpets thoroughly.

Supplies Needed

Having the proper supplies makes cleaning carpet easier and more effective. Here is a list of recommended items to have on hand:

Vacuum cleaner – Choose a vacuum with strong suction and brushroll designed for carpet. Canister vacuums are ideal for accessing corners and edges.
Carpet cleaner – Consider a steam cleaner or cleaner that uses water and cleaning solution. Machines with powered brushrolls provide deeper cleaning.
Cleaning solutions – Look for solutions made for use in carpet cleaners. Avoid bleach or ammonia that may discolor or damage carpet fibers.
Spot cleaner – Have a dedicated spot cleaner for treating stains and spots between deeper cleanings.
Scrub brush – A soft brush helps work cleaning solutions into carpet fibers to dissolve dirt.
Rags – Absorbent, lint-free white cloths make good rags for blotting and drying carpet.
Fans – Speed drying after steam cleaning carpets by placing fans nearby to circulate air. Box fans work well.
Protective gear – Wear rubber gloves and knee pads to protect your hands and knees. A mask can filter cleaning fumes.

Gather supplies ahead of time so they are ready when needed. Keeping adequate stock of cleaners, solutions, and equipment ensures carpets get cleaned properly.

Vacuuming Thoroughly

The first step when maintaining clean carpets is to vacuum frequently. Regular vacuuming prevents dirt from embedding deeply in carpet fibers. Follow these tips for most effective vacuuming:

Vacuum high traffic areas daily – Areas like entryways and hallways collect dirt quicker. Vacuum daily to prevent buildup.
Vacuum entire area weekly – Each room with carpet should be vacuumed once per week to catch dirt in less trafficked spots.
Use slow, overlapping strokes – Go over each section of carpet several times using slow movements for thorough pickup.
Change vacuum bags often – Full bags restrict airflow and suction required to remove dirt. Change bags when half full.
Inspect brushes monthly – Clear any debris wrapped around brushes. Replace worn brushes affecting vacuum efficiency.
Target pet areas – Use additional passes when vacuuming spots pets frequent to remove dander and hair.
Clean vacuums – Follow manufacturer’s instructions to keep vacuum filters and equipment well-maintained.

Take time when vacuuming. Rushing through the process can leave substantial amounts of debris in carpet that lead to quicker resoiling.

Pre-Treating Carpets

Pre-treating carpets prior to deep cleaning improves results and allows cleaners to work more effectively. Here are tips for pre-treating:

Sprinkle baking soda – Spread baking soda over carpet and let sit for a few hours before vacuuming. The powder draws out dirt and odors.
Use carpet shampoo – Apply carpet shampoo solution to soiled high traffic areas. Allow time to dry then vacuum.
Try enzymatic cleaners – For pet stains and odors an enzymatic cleaner breaks down waste to remove it.
Loosen dirt – In heavily soiled spots, use a scrub brush and cleaning solution to loosen embedded dirt.
Clean high traffic lanes – Focus pre-treating in main walking paths that see the most dirt and grime buildup.

Take time to pre-treat carpets before the main cleaning session for better overall results. Be sure carpet dries completely before steam cleaning to prevent mold or mildew growth.

Deep Cleaning Methods

Deep cleaning carpets at regular intervals keeps them looking fresh and extends time between professional cleanings. Here are methods to deep clean carpets:

Rental Cleaners

Rental cleaners use hot water and cleaning solution to deep clean carpets. Models with powered brushrolls provide more vigorous scrubbing.

Benefits

Removes embedded dirt, allergens, grease, and stains
More thorough than home carpet cleaner machines
Convenient delivery and pickup of unit

Drawbacks

Can leave carpet too wet without proper drying
May require moving heavy furniture
Renting unit and buying solutions has ongoing costs

Professional Services

Hiring professional carpet cleaning service to steam clean carpets provides a deep, thorough cleaning.

Benefits

Truck mounted units heat water to very high temps
Powerful suction extracts maximum moisture
Experts properly pre-treat and groom carpet

Drawbacks

Scheduled service may not match cleaning needs
Drying can take up to 24 hours
High per service and additional stain treatment costs

DIY Cleaners

Home carpet cleaning machines offer convenience for spot treating or periodic deep cleaning.

Benefits

Provides spot or whole carpet cleaning anytime needed
More power than handheld spot cleaners
Lower cost than renting for each use

Drawbacks

Smaller tanks require refilling frequently
Not as powerful as rental or professional units
Can leave carpet too wet without proper drying

Evaluate each method to determine the best option for keeping carpets clean based on your needs. Combine methods for spot cleaning as needed.

Step-by-Step Deep Cleaning

Here are step-by-step instructions to deep clean carpets using a rental or home carpet cleaner:

1. Vacuum carpet thoroughly

Vacuuming before cleaning allows cleaning solutions to penetrate fibers faster to work more effectively.

2. Pre-treat stains and heavy traffic areas

Use a scrub brush and carpet cleaner to break up soil in heavily soiled spots. Allow to dry fully.

3. Fill cleaner with solution

Check cleaner instructions for correct dilution ratio. Only fill solution tank with enough for area being cleaned.

4. Pretreat entire carpet

Spray small sections with pretreatment solution following manufacturer’s directions. Avoid saturating carpet excessively.

5. Clean sections going with grain

Work cleaner over carpet using smooth, steady motions following carpet fibers. Overlap passes.

6. Empty dirty solution tanks

Rinse and refill clean solution tank frequently to avoid re-depositing dirt into carpet as you clean.

7. Rinse with clear water

Make final carpet cleaner passes with only hot water in tank to rinse away cleaning solution residue.

8. Allow carpet to dry fully

Keep pets and people off carpet until completely dry. Place fans to speed drying time.

Repeat process as needed until carpet is cleaned satisfactorily and rinsed thoroughly.

Tips for Cleaning Specific Stains

In addition to routine cleaning, carpets often require spot treating various stains that occur. Here are tips for cleaning common carpet stains:

Food and Drink Stains

Coffee, tea – Pour boiling water over stain. Blot then spray with vinegar. Rinse with water and allow to dry.
Wine, alcohol – Blot up liquid immediately. Mix water and white vinegar, spray on stain. Blot to soak up.
Grease – Sprinkle cornstarch over grease stain. Wait 15 minutes then vacuum up. Repeat until removed.

Personal Care Product Stains

Makeup – Gently scrape off excess with dull knife. Apply stain remover, let sit 5 minutes. Blot spot.
Nail polish – Use non-acetone remover on cotton ball. Work from stain edges into center to avoid spreading.
Hair dye – Mix baking soda and hydrogen peroxide into a paste. Rub into stain, let sit 1 hour. Vacuum residue.

Organic Stains

Blood – Blot stain immediately with cold water. Apply hydrogen peroxide, scrub lightly and rinse thoroughly.
Pet waste, vomit – Use an enzymatic pet stain remover following label directions. Allow time to break down waste.
Food waste – Scrape off food with dull knife. Make paste of baking soda and water, scrub into stain. Rinse and blot dry. Other Tips
Act quickly – The longer many stains sit the harder they are to remove
Blot – Avoid rubbing stains which can spread them deeper into carpet fibers
Avoid excessive moisture – Too much liquid can seep down to carpet backing or lead to mold
Test cleaners – Try stain removers in an inconspicuous area first to check for discoloration or damage

With the right methods and consistent cleaning, carpets can stay looking fresh and clean for years before requiring replacement. Maintain carpets properly to improve air quality and provide a more inviting environment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Carpets

Cleaning carpets effectively takes some knowledge and effort. Here are answers to common questions people have regarding DIY carpet cleaning and maintenance:

How often should carpets be professionally cleaned?

Most carpets need professional hot water extraction cleaning every 12-18 months depending on traffic and family size. Spot clean and carpet cleaner maintenance in between.

What is the best carpet cleaning solution?

Look for carpet cleaner solutions made specifically for use in machines. Avoid bleach, ammonia, or acidic solutions that degrade carpet fibers.

Can I rent a carpet cleaner from a grocery store?

Many grocery stores offer convenient rental of name brand carpet cleaner machines. Units provide thorough cleaning for much less than hiring professionals.

How long after cleaning does carpet take to dry?

Depending on humidity and air circulation, drying time is usually 4-8 hours. Use fans to speed drying and prevent mold or odors from moisture.

Should I vacuum before using a carpet cleaner?

Yes, always vacuum thoroughly before using carpet cleaners. It enhances cleaning by allowing solutions to penetrate fibers faster to work more effectively.

What is the best way to clean pet stains from carpet?

Use an enzymatic pet stain cleaner to break down waste and eliminate odors. Avoid ammonia or vinegar solutions that may encourage pets to re-soil area.

How do I get old carpet stains out?

Make a paste of baking soda and water and scrub into stain. Rinse thoroughly and blot dry. Repeat as needed for stubborn stains. May require professional cleaning.

Can I rent a steam cleaner for tile or hard floors?

Yes, multipurpose cleaners are safe for use on hard flooring. Change to proper hard floor attachment and use lowest steam setting to avoid damage.

Regular carpet maintenance keeps them looking fresh and clean for years. Follow these tips and guidelines for properly cleaning carpets and effectively treating spots and stains as they occur. With some periodic effort, carpets can stay attractive and stain-free.

Conclusion

Carpets enhance decor and provide comfort underfoot in homes and businesses. However, they require regular cleaning to keep them looking their best. Vacuuming thoroughly on a schedule prevents dirt from embedding deeply. Pre-treating high traffic areas helps deep cleaning methods work better. Consider deep cleaning with rental, professional, or DIY carpet cleaners every 12-18 months. Treat spots and stains as soon as they occur to prevent setting. Overall, following proper carpet care and cleaning methods helps extend carpet life, improve indoor air quality, and provide an inviting environment for your home or business.

How to Clean Carpet

Keeping carpets clean requires regular vacuuming along with periodic deep cleaning to refresh their appearance and extend their life. Here is a comprehensive guide to effectively cleaning carpets:

Supplies For Cleaning Carpets

Having the right supplies makes cleaning carpets easier:

Vacuum – Choose one with strong suction and rotating brushes to lift dirt from carpets. Canister vacuums easily reach corners and edges.
Carpet cleaner – Consider a rental unit or purchase a home carpet steamer that uses water and cleaning solutions to deep clean carpets.
Cleaning solutions – Use a cleaner made specifically for carpets and carpet cleaners. Check if it’s safe for your particular carpet fibers.
Spot cleaner – Have a dedicated spot cleaner to treat stains between full cleanings. Look for one that penetrates fibers to lift stains.
Scrub brush – Use a soft brush to gently agitate carpet fibers when pretreating or spot cleaning.
Rags – Absorbent, lint-free white cloths make good rags to blot up liquids from carpets.
Fans – Place fans nearby when drying carpets to speed up drying time. Box fans work well.
Gloves, mask, knee pads – Protect yourself with gloves, masks, and knee pads when cleaning carpets.

Vacuuming Properly

Vacuuming regularly prevents dirt buildup that can damage carpet fibers:

Vacuum high traffic areas like entryways daily.
Vacuum entire carpeted rooms 1-2 times per week. Go over each section several times.
Work slowly and thoroughly using overlapping strokes.
Inspect and change vacuum bags when half full to maintain suction.
Target pet areas with extra passes to lift hair and dander.
Follow manufacturer’s directions to maintain vacuums properly.

Take time when vacuuming without rushing to remove embedded dirt from carpets before it causes damage.

Pre-Treating Carpets

Pre-treat carpets before deep cleaning for better results:

Sprinkle baking soda and let sit before vacuuming to lift dirt and absorb odors.
Apply carpet shampoo solution to heavy traffic areas, allow to dry fully.
Use enzymatic cleaner on pet stains and odors to break down waste.
Loosen ground-in dirt with a brush and cleaning solution.

Focus on heavy traffic lanes where dirt builds up most. Ensure carpets dry fully before steam cleaning.

Deep Cleaning Methods

Deep clean carpets every 12-18 months to refresh their appearance:

Rental Cleaners

Rental cleaners provide thorough cleaning with powerful hot water extraction. Schedule delivery and pickup for convenience.

Professional Services

Hire professional carpet cleaners for optimal results from truck mounted hot water units and expert steam cleaning techniques.

DIY Cleaners

Home carpet cleaner machines offer affordable deep cleaning whenever needed. Spot clean or do whole rooms based on your needs.

Evaluate each method to choose the best option for your situation. Use spot cleaning as needed between deep cleanings.

Step-By-Step Deep Cleaning

Follow these steps to deep clean carpets:

Vacuum thoroughly before cleaning.
Pre-treat heavily soiled areas and stains. Allow to fully dry.
Fill carpet cleaner with correct dilution of solution.
Lightly mist carpet with pretreatment solution before passing cleaner.
Clean carpet going with the direction of the fibers using overlapping strokes.
Empty dirty solution tanks often to avoid re-depositing dirt into carpet.
Make final passes with only hot water to rinse away cleaning solution residue.
Allow carpet to dry completely before walking on it. Place fans to assist drying.

Repeat process until carpets are cleaned satisfactorily.

Treating Carpet Stains

Treat stains on carpets as soon as possible:

Coffee, wine – Blot immediately. Spray with vinegar, rinse with water.
Grease – Sprinkle cornstarch on stain, let sit 15 mins then vacuum up.
Makeup – Scrape off excess gently with a dull knife. Apply stain remover.
Hair dye – Make baking soda and peroxide paste, let sit 1 hour before vacuuming up.
Blood – Blot with cold water immediately. Scrub lightly with peroxide then rinse.
Pet waste – Use enzymatic pet stain remover to eliminate odors and breakdown waste.
Food waste – Scrape off excess. Make a baking soda paste, scrub into stain and rinse thoroughly.

Act quickly, blot rather than rub, and test stain removers first before applying to large areas.

With regular vacuuming and periodic deep cleaning, carpets can stay looking fresh and clean for many years. Follow these tips to effectively maintain carpets and keep them stain-free.

FAQs About Cleaning Carpets

How often should I get carpets professionally cleaned?

Most carpets need a thorough professional cleaning every 12-18 months depending on traffic. Spot clean and maintain carpets regularly in between.

What is the best carpet cleaning solution to use?

Look for cleaners specifically made for use in carpet machines. Avoid bleach, ammonia, or acidic solutions that can degrade carpets.

Can I rent a carpet cleaner from a grocery store?

Yes, many grocery stores offer convenient rental of name brand carpet cleaners at reasonable rates. Units provide thorough DIY cleaning.

How long does it take for carpets to dry after cleaning?

Depending on humidity and air circulation, drying time is usually 4-8 hours. Use fans to speed up drying time.

Should you vacuum before using a carpet cleaner?

Always vacuum thoroughly before cleaning carpets. It allows cleaning solutions to penetrate fibers quicker for better results.

How do you get old pet urine stains out of carpet?

Use an enzymatic pet stain remover to break down urine waste and eliminate odors. Avoid vinegar or ammonia cleaners that may encourage re-soiling.

What gets rid of old set-in stains on carpets?

Make a paste of baking soda and water. Scrub into the stain and let sit briefly before rinsing thoroughly and blotting dry.

Can I use a steam cleaner on hard floors?

Yes, change to the proper hard floor attachment. Use lowest steam setting to avoid damaging floors.

Maintain carpets