Check also: 9 Things You Need to Know About Stain Protection for Carpets and Upholstery

Carpet pile reversal is most noticeable in solid color carpets.

1. Carpet Pile Reversal

Pooling, pile reversal, watermarking, and shading all describe the same frustrating phenomenon. Pooling, sometimes called watermarking or shading, is a form of pile reversal that can affect both wool and synthetic carpets. It’s a particularly annoying issue because it can happen to brand-new carpets just as easily as to older ones, and even the most expensive ones aren’t immune. It occurs when the carpet yarns lie in different directions in adjacent areas, creating a visible distortion. One area will appear lighter, while the adjoining area appears darker, depending on the angle you view it. It’s an optical effect caused by how light reflects off the carpet fibres.

As an experiment, we’ve tried using the hottest water temperatures (the industry standard for removing “crush marks”) on these areas, but the pooling persists. And unfortunately, carpet cleaning does not cause this. It’s a characteristic of certain carpet types, most often dense, deep, cut-pile carpets, and particularly noticeable on solid-coloured carpets. While it might appear more prominently after a professional cleaning, this is usually because the removal of general soiling makes the existing issue more visible. It was likely there before but perhaps masked by dirt, furniture placement, or lighting. Notably, most carpet manufacturers do not consider pooling a manufacturing defect and won’t cover it under warranty.

How to Prevent Pooling

If you’re furnishing a new home, consider the flooring choices for different rooms. While carpets are cosy in bedrooms, they might not be the best choice for high-traffic areas like living rooms or dining rooms, where pooling would be more visible. Hardwood or laminate flooring could be a more practical option for these spaces. 

Alternatively, when choosing carpets, consider the pile type. Loop-pile styles are far less susceptible to pooling than cut piles. Loop-pile carpets are durable, resilient, fashionable, and stain-resistant, making them a superior choice for busy households.

Read also: How to Choose Carpets for Your New Home

What Can Be Done to Fix or Hide Pooling?

Sadly, there’s no permanent fix for pooling. While temporary solutions like steaming and grooming the affected area might offer limited and short-lived improvement, they won’t resolve the issue completely. The best way to deal with pooling is to conceal it. Placing rugs over the affected areas is a simple and effective way to hide the visual distortion.

If heavy furniture, like a dresser or bookcase, is placed on your carpet, deep, permanent indentations can form within a few months.

2. Carpet Indentations

Carpet indentations are those annoying marks left behind when furniture stands in the same spot for an extended period. While minor indentations can often be addressed with some simple DIY tricks or professional cleaning, deep, long-standing indentations are a different story. If a heavy piece of furniture has been pressing down on the carpet for years, it’s unlikely that any amount of cleaning will fully restore the pile. We frequently encounter clients, especially tenants moving out, who expect us to erase these deep indentations magically. We always strive to be upfront about what can and cannot be achieved through professional cleaning, to ensure you have realistic expectations.

How to Prevent Carpet Indentations

Prevention is key when it comes to carpet indentations. Regularly moving furniture, even slightly, can help distribute the pressure and prevent deep indentations from forming. Using furniture coasters and cups under the legs of heavy items can also help. Regular vacuuming and brushing of the carpet can also help maintain the pile and reduce the likelihood of indentations becoming permanent.

Check also: Things You Can Do to Keep Your Carpets Clean

What Can Be Done to Fix Carpet Indentations?

For recent, less severe indentations, you can try putting ice cubes over the dents and letting them melt. Once the ice has melted, blot up the excess water with a sponge and gently lift the carpet fibres with a spoon or a dull knife. Another method involves using a steam iron. Place a clean cloth over the indentation and apply steam from the iron. However, for older, deeper indentations, these methods, and even professional cleaning, are unlikely to provide a complete solution.

We always advise treating carpet stains with any product before testing them first because doing so can lead to stain bleeding and permanent discolouration, as shown in the photo.

3. Carpet Discolouration: Bleaching and UV Damage

Carpet discolouration can occur due to several factors, including bleaching from harsh cleaning products, accidental spills, or prolonged exposure to direct sunlight (UV damage). Unfortunately, discolouration is permanent and cannot be reversed by carpet cleaning. There’s no magic formula or technique that can restore the original colour of the carpet.

How to Prevent Carpet Discolouration

When using any cleaning products, always test them on a small, inconspicuous area of the carpet first. This step will help you avoid accidentally bleaching or discolouring the carpet. For area rugs, rotate them periodically to prevent uneven fading from sunlight. Use thick curtains or blinds to block direct sunlight during peak hours for wall-to-wall carpets.

Read also: Successful Stain Removal Is a Matter of Chemistry

What Can Be Done to Fix Carpet Discolouration?

While professional cleaning can sometimes revive dull-looking carpets by removing embedded dirt, it cannot fix discolouration caused by bleaching or UV damage. If the colour loss is significant, the only option might be to replace the affected section of the carpet or, in extreme cases, the entire carpet. 

Another option to consider is re-dyeing the bleached area. However, this is an expensive and specialised service, and there’s no guarantee that the re-dyed colour will perfectly match the surrounding carpet. 

The sudden appearance of bald patches on your carpet is always alarming, and you should immediately call pest control specialists.

4. Moth Infestations

Moth infestations are a serious and persistent problem. These pests lay eggs in carpets and furnishings, and the hatching larvae feed on the carpet fibres, causing significant damage. While some DIY methods, including steam cleaning, are often suggested for moth removal, they are rarely effective on their own. Professional carpet cleaning alone will not eliminate a moth infestation.

How to Prevent Moth Infestations

Regular vacuuming, especially in less frequently accessed areas like under furniture and behind wardrobes, is crucial for preventing moth infestations. Moths thrive in dark, humid environments, so good ventilation is also important. Regularly inspect your carpets and furnishings for signs of moth activity.

Read also: How to Keep Your Furniture and Carpets Clean All Year Long 

What Can Be Done to Deal with Moth Infestation?

If you suspect a moth infestation, immediately contact a professional pest control company. They will be able to recommend the most effective treatment for your specific situation. Only after the pest control treatment has been completed and confirmed a success should you consider having your carpets professionally cleaned to remove any remaining debris, dead moths, larvae, eggs, and residue from the pest control products. It’s a two-step process: pest control first, then carpet cleaning.

After a professional carpet cleaning, a long pile like this will look great; however, it will flatten again, especially in high-traffic areas.

5. Flattened Carpet Pile

In recent years, we’ve noticed a trend of people purchasing carpets that mimic the lush feel of more expensive options. These carpets, often with a long pile or certain fibres like Polypropylene or Polypropylene blends, for example, can initially feel incredibly soft and luxurious underfoot. However, over time, the pile can start to flatten, losing its volume and softness. Unfortunately, this is often an inherent characteristic of these types of carpets, and carpet cleaning alone won’t permanently restore the pile’s original loft.

How to Prevent Flattened Carpet Pile

You can’t entirely prevent the pile from flattening over time with certain carpet types. The initial softness is often due to the underlay, not the pile itself. If you prioritise a thick, plush feel, invest in a high-quality underlay, which is sold separately.

Check also: Pros and Cons of Getting a Viscose Rug

What Can Be Done to Fix a Flattened Carpet Pile?

While professional cleaning might temporarily improve the appearance of a flattened carpet pile, the effect is not permanent. The pile will likely flatten again over time. For long-pile carpets prone to flattening, replacing the carpet might be a more cost-effective solution in the long run than repeated professional cleanings. Consider choosing a short, dense, ideally loop-pile carpet for greater durability and less risk of flattening.

Honest Solutions for Your Carpet Care Needs

As you can see, there are some carpet issues that even the most skilled carpet cleaners can’t resolve. However, professional carpet cleaning can address many other problems, such as stains, embedded dirt and dust, and bacteria, restoring the beauty and freshness of your carpets. If you’re looking for experienced carpet cleaners in London who will provide a thorough clean without making false promises, don’t hesitate to contact Cleaner Cleaner Ltd. We’re here to help you keep your carpets looking their best.

Our comprehensive guide covers the unique considerations for professional deep carpet cleaning in London during the colder months. We explore the challenges of winter conditions and review practical strategies for ensuring thorough drying. Our experienced carpet cleaners have also put together some valuable tips for maintaining a healthy indoor environment during the cold and humid London winter.

Read also: How to Clean the 3 Most Common Types of Carpets

Stains happen unexpectedly. Don’t ignore them! For large or stubborn stains, professional carpet cleaning of the entire carpet may be necessary.

Why Winter Carpet Cleaning May Be Necessary

Despite the inherent challenges, there are several compelling reasons to consider deep carpet cleaning during the winter months:

• Spills and accidents: Winter often increases indoor activity, leading to a higher likelihood of spills, food messes, and pet accidents. Prompt, professional cleaning can prevent stains from setting and damage from occurring.
• Spending more time indoors: In cold weather, we tend to spend more time inside the house. This increases foot traffic inside and can lead to a faster accumulation of dust, dirt, and allergens in our carpets.
• Health concerns: Winter months often coincide with an increase in respiratory illnesses. Carpets can harbour dust mites, allergens, and other pollutants that aggravate allergies and respiratory problems. Regular cleaning significantly improves the indoor air quality and creates a healthier living environment for all family members, especially those with sensitivities.
• Holiday season: Winter holidays lead to more foot traffic inside our homes, which increases the potential for spills and stains. A professional carpet cleaning after the festivities can restore your carpet’s fibres to their original condition and prepare your home for the new year.

Humid London weather presents unique challenges for deep carpet cleaning, especially in winter.

The Challenges of Winter Carpet Cleaning

While maintaining your carpet clean in winter is essential, the season presents a few particular challenges that you must address to ensure successful results:

• Slower drying times: Low temperatures and increased humidity levels significantly slow down the drying process. This can lead to prolonged dampness, creating an ideal environment for mould growth and musty odours.
• Health risks: In addition to mould growth, carpets’ moisture provides perfect conditions for developing bacteria and can even attract pests like moths, which thrive in damp conditions.
• Reduced ventilation: Cold weather often requires that windows and doors remain closed, which limits natural ventilation and prevents moisture from escaping carpets.
• Increased use of heating: Relying heavily on heating systems can complicate the drying process. While heating can help evaporate moisture, it may also raise indoor humidity levels without proper ventilation.
• Potential for damage: If carpets remain damp for extended periods, the fibres can be damaged, including shrinkage, warping, and discolouration.

Check also: 7 Ideas for Dealing with Mould at Home

Hiring a carpet care expert is always a sure bet against mold, stains, and dirt. However, there are a few other things you can do to ensure perfect results for your winter carpet cleaning.

Strategies for Successful Winter Carpet Cleaning

To overcome these challenges and ensure successful winter carpet cleaning, consider the following strategies:

Optimise the Use of Heating

Use your home’s heating system strategically. Turn on the heat before and during the carpet cleaning to warm the air and accelerate drying. However, ensure adequate ventilation to prevent excessive humidity buildup.

Ensure Proper Airflow

Open windows and doors whenever possible, even for short periods, to allow maximum airflow and moisture escape. Utilise fans to circulate air and expedite the drying process.

Minimise water usage

Opt for cleaning techniques that minimise water usage, such as the hot water extraction method or dry carpet cleaning.

Put Your Dehumidifier to Work

Dehumidifiers significantly reduce the humidity in your home, creating a more favourable environment for carpet drying.

Request Powerful Carpet Cleaning Machines

When selecting a professional carpet cleaning company, it’s crucial to inquire about their equipment. Ensure they utilise advanced machines with powerful suction to extract as much moisture as possible. Excessively wet carpets can lead to prolonged drying times, increased risk of mould, and potential damage to the carpet fibres. If the company’s standard machines lack sufficient suction, they should offer specialised drying equipment, such as high-powered air movers.

Avoid Rental Carpet Cleaning Equipment

It’s essential to avoid using rental carpet cleaning machines like Rug Doctor, especially in winter. These machines often over-saturate carpets due to their high water usage and limited suction power. Domestic carpet cleaners typically lack the power and specialised solutions necessary for effective and thorough professional cleaning.

Prepare the Carpet Before Cleaning

Thoroughly vacuum your carpets before the professional cleaning to remove loose dirt, debris, and pet hair. This step will not only improve the effectiveness of the cleaning but also reduce the amount of moisture absorbed by the carpets.

By addressing the unique challenges of winter carpet cleaning, you can create a more comfortable and enjoyable living space for you and your family.

Read also: Which Carpet Cleaning Method is the Best?

A clean carpet is a crucial step towards improving indoor air quality this winter, but there are a few other things you can do as well.

Maintaining a Healthy Indoor Environment

In addition to using professional cleaning services, you can take several measures to maintain a cleaner carpet and healthier indoor environment during the winter months:

• Regular vacuuming: Vacuuming your floorings at least twice a week is crucial to remove dust, dirt, and allergens from carpets.
• Air filtration: Utilise air purifiers with HEPA filters to remove airborne particles, including dust, pollen, and mould spores.
• Proper ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation throughout your home by regularly opening windows and doors, even for short periods.
• Control humidity: Use dehumidifiers to maintain optimal humidity levels in your place, reducing the risk of mould growth and other moisture-related issues.
• Wear clean shoes indoors: Encourage family members and guests to take off their outdoor shoes before entering the house to minimise the tracking of dirt, mud, and other contaminants onto carpets.
• Dust regularly: Dusting surfaces frequently helps to prevent dust from settling on carpets.
• Minimise the use of chemical products: Be mindful when using chemical products on carpets, such as stain protection sprays. Many contain potentially harmful chemicals like PFOS, which can harm human health and the environment. Consider natural alternatives or professional stain protection applications for high-traffic areas or expensive carpets.
• Choose natural cleaning products: Opt for natural and non-toxic cleaning products and eco-friendly cleaning techniques for your home whenever possible.
• Clean your rugs more often: While cleaning wall-to-wall carpets is challenging, maintaining area rugs is significantly easier. Inspect and clean area rugs to prevent the buildup of dirt and allergens.
• Consider Flooring Alternatives:
  • Hardwood, cork, or laminate flooring can be easier to clean and maintain than carpets.
  • However, it’s important to note that dust on hard floors is more readily airborne, potentially triggering respiratory issues for some individuals.
  • With carpets, dust remains trapped within the fibres, minimising its impact on indoor air quality.
  • Regardless of your flooring choice, regular and thorough cleaning is essential to maintain a healthy indoor environment and minimise the accumulation of dust and allergens.

Check also: 9 Things You Need to Know About Stain Protection for Carpets and Upholstery

Combining these additional measures with regular professional carpet cleaning can significantly improve indoor air quality. Remember, a clean home contributes to your well-being.

Don’t hesitate to call us for expert carpet cleaning and stain removal, even in winter! We use low-moisture cleaning methods and advanced products to ensure your carpets are pristine.

Call Us If You Need Expert Carpet Care This Winter

Winter can make maintaining a clean and healthy home challenging, especially regarding carpet care. However, careful planning allows you to clean the carpet successfully during the colder months. For the best results, consider hiring a reputable professional carpet cleaning company experienced in winter cleaning. If you are in London, don’t hesitate to call us to request a free quote and book our professional carpet cleaning service any time of the year!

Read also: How to Clean a Wool Rug

Oriental rugs require specific care, even for a task as simple as dusting and vacuuming.

How to Remove Dust and Dirt from Your Oriental Rug?

Whether you own a vintage Persian rug or a contemporary Turkish kilim, keeping them free from dirt and dust is important. Trapped dirt can cause permanent damage to the natural fibres of these handmade pieces and, over time, make your carpet look dingy and grimy. So, here are some tips that can help you keep your Oriental rug dust and dirt-free:

• Vacuum regularly: We recommend hoovering your Oriental rug at least once a week, even more often if it’s placed in a high-traffic area. Regular vacuuming is necessary for every carpet, but this is especially important for Oriental rugs. 
• Move the vacuum in the direction of the fibres: Run the vacuum head slowly toward the rug’s nap (the direction in which the fibres lie). 
• Clean the rug’s fringe: When cleaning an Oriental carpet, paying particular attention to the fringe tassels is essential. These tassels are the most delicate part of the rug and can quickly become undone, torn, or worn out. Over time, this can cause the rug’s knots to pull away and unravel. If you want to vacuum the fringe of your Oriental rug, it’s best to use the upholstery brush attachment. This attachment is gentle and won’t suck or pull the tassels as hard as the floor head attachment, which can cause damage to the tassels.
• Avoid using the retractable brush on the vacuum head: These attachments are usually coarse, and running them over the carpet can damage the fibres. When vacuuming, use only the floor head.
• Get a soft-bristle brush: If there is some debris ingrained in the pile, use a soft bristle brush to loosen it before vacuuming your rug.
• Clean the back of the rug: Flip the carpet over to expose its backside and vacuum it. You can also use a brush to loosen the dirt on the back.
• Beating vs. Vacuuming: If you have a powerful vacuum cleaner and are concerned that it might pull and warp the fibres of your carpet, you can try the old-school method of cleaning your rug. Remove the carpet from the floor and take it outside. Then, shake and beat it gently to remove dirt and dust manually. This method is especially recommended for braided or hand-hooked rugs rather than flat weave types.

Check also: How to Choose the Best Rug for Your Living Room

If your space receives a lot of direct sunlight during the day, the colours of your Oriental rug will fade faster.

How to Preserve the Colours of Your Oriental Rug?

The beautiful colours of handmade carpets often originate from natural and plant-based dyes. For instance, ancient Persian rugs were dyed using dried, ground madder root for reds, cochineal for reds (although this was less common), indigo for blues, weld for yellow, sequential dyeing in indigo and weld for green, walnut husks for brown and camel, and other vegetal substances for other colours. Even today, many Oriental rugs are still dyed with natural materials. Compared to chemical dyes, natural dyes give the wool a shine that is hard to surpass. Moreover, the natural dyestuffs are harmless and are becoming popular again. However, these dyes are less stable than contemporary fabric dyes, so you must take certain steps to prevent the colours from fading.

You might also like: How to clean the 3 most common types of carpets

• Keep away from direct sunlight:
  • Natural dyes, such as those found in oriental rugs, are susceptible to fading when exposed to direct sunlight. UV rays take out red colours first, as well as other strong saturated colours.
  • Keep your oriental rug away from windows to prevent colour fading.
  • Consider using thick drapes to shield the rug from sunlight exposure.
• Rotate Regularly:
  • Rotate your oriental rug periodically to ensure even wear and prevent colours from fading unevenly.
• Get UV Blocking Window Film:
  • Covering windows with UV-blocking film provides another layer of protection against UV rays, which are a primary cause of discolouration in oriental rugs.
  • The film effectively blocks harmful UV rays while still allowing natural light into the room, preserving the rug’s vibrancy and longevity.

Read also: How to Care for a Synthetic Rug

Natural dyes give your Oriental rug luscious hues but are unstable, so stain cleaning is better left to a professional.

How to Remove a Stain From Your Oriental Rug?

Accidents happen, but when you spill something into your Moroccan, Persian, or Tabriz rug, we don’t recommend trying to remove the stain yourself. There are a few reasons why DIY spot treatment is a bad idea for Oriental rugs:

• People tend to oversoak their rugs during DIY cleanings; however, natural fibres absorb a lot of water, leading to warping or shrinkage of the carpet when it gets dry.
• Soaking the carpet may also cause colour bleeding.
• If you fail to dry the carpet properly, this can lead to deterioration of the fibres and mildew.
• Store-bought stain removal products often contain ingredients that can cause colour bleeding; for example, alkaline cleaning products dissolve unstable natural dyes.
• Soap leaves a residue that attracts more dirt if not well-rinsed.

Still, if you DO have to spill something, here’s what to do before the cleaner arrives: 

• Carefully scrape off any solid bits with a spoon without rubbing the carpet, as this can push the dirt deeper into the fibres.
• Blot up excess liquid immediately with a clean, white absorbent cloth. You can also use thick paper towels.
• Never rub, as this can spread the stain.
• Schedule stain removal and deep cleaning service with an experienced carpet cleaner.

You might also like: What Are the Best Ways to Remove Pet Hair Off of Furniture and Carpets   

Remember:

• • If you DO decide to use stain removal products, always test it on an inconspicuous area of the rug before applying it to the entire surface.
  • Never use harsh chemicals, bleach, or steam cleaners on any handmade rug.
  • Consult a professional rug cleaner if you’re unsure about any cleaning method.

Check also: Stain Removal Is a Matter of Chemical Reactions

Handmade wollen and silk rugs are an ideal source of food for pests’ larvae.

How to Protect Your Oriental Rug From Pests?

Oriental rugs, particularly those made of wool and silk, can be prone to pest infestations. These types of fibres are rich in protein, making them an excellent food source for carpet beetles and carpet moths. Both species are widespread pests and can cause significant damage to rugs, carpets, kilims, and other natural fibre furnishings. They typically lay their eggs in dark, hard-to-reach corners of the house, such as behind furniture. Once the larvae hatch, they begin consuming any natural textile items nearby. Unfortunately, it’s often too late when you spot them, and the damage is done. Once Oriental rugs have been damaged, they lose their value even if repaired by professionals. Here are some tips to follow to protect your valuable Oriental carpet:

• Vacuum regularly around the house to prevent infestations. 
• Every now and then, check hard-to-reach spaces and the furniture around to clean and inspect for larvae.
• Store items susceptible to pest infestation, such as food, woollens, and furs, in insect-proof containers.

Read also: Things You Can Do to Keep Your Carpets Clean

A rug care specialist can help you prolong your Oriental carpet’s life and turn it into a family heirloom.

Deep Cleaning Your Oriental Rug

Oriental rugs need deep cleaning to maintain their value. We recommend professional carpet cleaning at least once every two years, more frequently if the rug is placed in a high-traffic area. Certified rug cleaners have the expertise and equipment to handle deep cleaning, stain removal, and fringe care, ensuring your carpet retains its vibrancy. So, don’t hesitate to contact us if you need deep cleaning or stain removal for your Oriental rug. 

By following these simple tips, you can ensure your treasured Persian, Moroccan, or Tabriz rug continues to bring you joy for years.

Read also: How to Clean a Carpet at Home – DIY Guide

Urine has a complicated composition which makes it surprisingly difficult to clean. Image by diana.grytsku

Why is it so difficult to remove a dry urine stain?

When dealing with a pee stain on the carpet, knowing why this clear, watery liquid is such a hassle to clean is important. When urine is allowed to dry and linger in the carpet (or the upholstery, for that matter), it starts to adhere to the fibres. The more time it is left to stay, the more robust the bond becomes. Proteins (chains of amino acids) form physical bonds with the fibres. At the same time, other components of the urine crystallise into salts, creating ionic (electrical charge) bonds. At this stage, the pee stain becomes exceedingly challenging to clean entirely. Meanwhile, Mother Nature initiates the process of decay.

Check also: Stain removal is a matter of chemistry

If not handled properly urine leave a lingering smell that only gets worse over time. Image by karlyukav o

Why does urine start to stink, and the odour worsens over time?

Urine has quite an intricate composition. Consider a multitude of substances previously ingested: water, sugars, various fats and oils from both plants, meat and dairy products, alcohol and so forth, all comprising numerous elements. The body transforms some of these constituents into yet other identifiable compounds before being excreted in a liquid form. Now, let’s focus on the components of urine known as “organic wastes,” referring to those portions that undergo decay.

The decay process is a natural mechanism that serves as a means of disposing of this refuse. These organic wastes serve as a natural food source for bacteria. As they feed on the waste, bacteria produce offensive vapours, releasing ammonia, sulphur, and methane gases in various combinations, which we perceive as an unpleasant odour. To put it differently, what our noses detect as a noxious odour is, in fact, bacteria excrement. This laboriously gradual process is the underlying cause of the lingering odour issue.

Read also: How to Clean your Wool Rug

Check your carpet’s textile composition to guarantee efficient pee stain removal. Image by rawpixel.com

Peculiarities of cleaning different types of carpets

Also, before cleaning your carpet, it’s good to consider its material to remove the pee stain efficiently without damaging the fibres.

Read also: How to clean the 3 most common types of carpets

• Natural carpets like wool, cotton and silk can be destroyed by enzyme cleaners if not rinsed properly after the treatment. 
• Synthetic carpets are usually easier to clean since they don’t retain moisture, and most can be treated with enzyme cleaners. 
• Man-made cellulosic fibres like viscose and bamboo silk are extremely vulnerable to moisture, and rigorous scrubbing can crush the carpet pile. So if you have to remove urine stains from such carpet, we recommend blotting up the excess liquid, then contact a carpet care specialist and arrange a same-day appointment. The same applies to silk, vintage and Oriental rugs.

Check also: Pros and Cons of Getting a Viscose Rug

Accidents happen, especially if your pet is still in training. Luckily, our detailed guide will help you get rid of the urine stain on your rug. Image by Freepik

Removing urine stains from carpets step by step

As you’ve already guessed, time is of the essence if you have to deal with pee stains. The best-case scenario is if the stain is still fresh and none of the bonding and decay has started. So, even if you are tired, tardy or occupied, it is wise to spare a few minutes to tend to your carpet. However, there are some tricks you can try even if the liquid has dried.

Read also: How to Choose Upholstery Fabric for Easy Care of Your Furniture

For fresh stains

Although the natural processes we described may make it sound like urine is next to impossible to clean, that’s not true – you must be diligent.

You will need:

• A few pieces of white cloth or paper towels
• Cleaning sponge
• Mixing bowl
• Spray bottle
• Lukewarm water  
• White distilled vinegar*
• Container filled with clean water
• Empty container for dirty water

*Vinegar can harm some fibres, especially when it is not diluted with the correct water ratio. If your carpet contains silk, cotton, or rayon, we strongly recommend soaking up the urine and calling a professional carpet cleaner. 

1. Grab a few rags or a bunch of paper towels and soak up the urine as quickly as you can from your carpet. Do not use dark rags because the fabric’s dye can transfer to the carpet. When the rag gets soaked, put it in your empty container or a garbage bag and continue blotting with a dry one until you get as much liquid out of the carpet as possible.
2. Mix 1 cup of distilled white vinegar and 1 cup of water in a small bowl or spray bottle.
3. Dip a clean sponge into your cleaning solution, squeeze it so it is not dripping wet, and blot the affected carpet area. Start at the outside of the wet spot and work toward the centre to help prevent the stain from spreading out. 
4. Work it in, blotting meticulously as the solution needs to get deep into the fibres, but try not to saturate the area. Oversoaking your carpet will make it more challenging to dry, and the residual moisture can lead to mould and mildew.
5. Squeeze the contaminated mixture into your dirty water container, dip the sponge in the cleaning solution and blot again. Repeat a few times.  
6. Use paper towels or a dry cloth to blot out the cleaning mixture.
7. Apply a generous amount of clean water onto affected area using a clean sponge to rinse away any vinegar residue. Repeat until you make sure there’s no cleaning solution on the carpet. This step is essential because any remaining acid can deteriorate the carpet fibres. 
8. Use dry clean rags or paper towels to soak up the residual water. If your rag gets wet, replace it with a dry one and continue blotting the moisture. 
9. Let the carpet air-dry away from direct sunlight or heat. Don’t be tempted to use a hair dryer for this step, as the high heat can set the stain, making it very difficult to clean. 
10. To help the carpet more quickly, you can place a rotating fan in the room to enhance the circulation of air in the room. 
11. Vacuum the area to lift carpet fibres. When cleaning a high-pile carpet, brushing it with a soft bristle brush is a good way to form and style the fibres.

You might also like: Ammonia as a Carpet Cleaning Solution

For dried urine stains 

Dealing with pee stains that have set in the carpet fibres takes more time and patience. Dried urine can be difficult to locate; even the slightest spot you fail to clean will eventually start stinking. That is why getting a small UV torch and shining it onto the carpet is good – it will immediately show you all the splashes and spots. After locating all the stains, you can spray them with only water to rehydrate them. Then, follow the same steps as cleaning fresh urine. You may need to repeat each step more times, but it is essentially the same process.

If possible, it’s best to get your rug outside and hose it to rinse out the urine. Image by Freepik

Check also: How To Clean The Bathroom Carpet

Removing a urine stain from your rug

Suppose you are not cleaning a fitted wall-to-wall carpet but a small area rug made from wool or synthetic fibres. In that case, there’s an alternative cleaning method. Bring the carpet outside and rinse the stain with lots of water; you can use a garden hose if you have one. After that, leave the rug to air dry completely before taking it outside. This old-school method is really effective, but only for wool and synthetic rugs, do not attempt it for cotton, silk or viscose carpets. Also, if you are cleaning urine from a rug, it’s wise to check its back because the liquids get deep into the fibres. When professional cleaners deal with urine stains on fitted carpets, they inject syringes with specialised products to battle the odours. Luckily, with smaller rugs, it’s possible to treat both sides.

Read also: Things You Can Do to Keep Your Carpets Clean

Feline urine is notoriously stinky, that is why it’s worth being particularly diligent when treating a cat pee stain on your rug. Image by Freepik

How to get rid of urine odour from your carpet

Whilst vinegar should be sufficient to cut through the odour of the urine on the carpet, the smell may still linger. If that’s the case, you can try some of the following methods:

Hydrogen peroxide and baking soda:

You can prepare a hydrogen peroxide solution if you have a light-coloured carpet. Never use this mixture on dark rugs, as it may bleach them. 

• Pour 1 cup of water, 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide and add 3 tablespoons of baking soda into a spray bottle. Shake well to combine all the ingredients.
• Spray the mixture onto your carpet, leave for 10 to 20 minutes, then blot with clean water to rinse.
• Dry the carpet with a clean towel.

If you are trying to decide whether or not to use this recipe on your rug, you can prepare the solution and test it on a small inconspicuous area.

Check also: What Are the Best Ways to Remove Pet Hair Off of Furniture and Carpets

Enzyme cleaner

Enzyme cleaners are great for removing urine stains and smell from clothes. However, when it comes to carpet cleaning, they can be a bit risky to use, which is why you should make sure the enzymatic cleaner won’t damage your rug. Most synthetic carpets can be safely treated with enzyme stain removers, while most natural ones will be damaged if you fail to rinse the spot thoroughly. There is a wide variety of enzymatic cleaners, so when you choose one, strictly follow the instructions on the label. As with all situations where you need to try a new product, we suggest testing on a small inconspicuous spot of the carpet before treating the stain.

As we here at Cleaner Cleaner are experts in cleaning carpets and floors, we are happy to provide helpful tips on these robotic devices. We hope that we can make picking up the best option for you easier with the information in this post. Keep reading to find out if the device is worth your time and money.

Read also: Smart Homeowner’s Guide to Carpet Cleaning

The robot cleaner can save you a lot of time.

What are the Benefits of Getting a Robotic Vacuum Cleaner?

Suppose you have limited time to spare to tackle various cleaning chores. In that case, a robotic vacuum cleaner can save you much time each week. After a long day at work, everything you need to do is switch on the device to remove dust and dirt from your carpets and hard floors, and it can move between rooms and flooring with ease. Plus, many high-quality products feature built-in sensors to avoid bumping into furniture or tumbling down your stairs. Of course, the biggest benefit of a robotic vacuum cleaner is that it can help you maintain a sparkingly clean home at the click of a button. As a result, you can keep your family safe from airborne pollutants and particles, which can prevent sneezing, coughing, runny noses, and asthma.

Check also: What Are the Best Ways to Remove Pet Hair Off of Furniture and Carpets   

How Much Will a Robotic Vacuum Cleaner Cost?

There are robotic vacuum cleaners to suit every budget. Prices typically start from £200 but can reach up to £800+. Of course, each product will have different features you must consider before purchasing. The parameters you should look for are:

• A powerful suction.
• A silent performance.
• Compact size.
• A large dirt canister.
• A long-lasting run-time.

While a robotic cleaner can be expensive, it is handy because it picks up dirt on the go. Although getting your carpets cleaned professionally at least once a year is highly recommended, daily cleanup is crucial to have a cleaner home. This is where the robot vacuum shines. With this device, you will enjoy better air quality at home. Removing dust and dirt on the go also means less wear and a longer lifespan of the flooring. If you use a robotic vacuum, qualified professionals can focus on stubborn stains and disinfecting the carpet when you hire them for the annual deep cleaning.

Read also: The Best Way to Clean Your Home Carpets

The robot cleaner connects to your Wi-Fi and it can be set to work when you are not home.

Do Robotic Cleaners Feature a Mop?

As mentioned, not all robotic vacuum cleaners are created equal. It is, therefore, a wise idea to consider your household needs to pick the right option for you. A lot of people wonder if these devices can also wipe up the floor. The answer is some robotic cleaners do come equipped with an optional mop to spruce up the flooring. This is a wonderful feature and allows you to focus on chores other than floor cleaning.

Check also: The importance of using a certified stain removal specialist with your carpets and soft furnishings

This is the amount of dirt collected in a single day in our favourite robotic cleaner Xiaomi S5.

What is the Best Robotic Vacuum Cleaner?

At Cleaner Cleaner, we are committed to helping homeowners, tenants, and business owners enjoy sparkling properties. This is why we are happy to pass on our expert cleaning advice. We recently tested the Roborock S5 Max – robot vacuum and mop from My Robot Center, which we would recommend to our customers. The smart robotic cleaner offers a 2000Pa suction, a great battery capacity of 5200mAh, and 360-degree laser mapping. Plus, you can control the device using a smartphone and can even set it to clean your home anytime from anywhere. So, it can spruce up your home when you’re at work, on holiday, or socialising with friends.

Check out also: How to Choose Carpets for Your New Home. 

How to Choose a Rug for Your Living Room by Textile

First off, let us look at how to choose a rug for your living room by material. The textile you choose can depend on what you are looking for. Keep in mind that if you have pets or children, you will want something more durable and stain-resistant.

1. Viscose Tencel:

If you are looking to design your home interior in a luxurious style, you could opt for viscose Tencel, also known as art silk. Viscose is a versatile fibre that provides the same comfort properties as natural fibres. It is considered semi-synthetic as it also uses natural cellulose. You will find that art silk is breathable, cool to the touch, and takes colour very easily.

You might also like: Pros and Cons of Getting a Viscose Rug

2. Polypropylene:

Having children and pets doesn’t really allow for the luxurious materials in the living room. Your best option in this case is a nice polypropylene rug. They are cheap to buy and have a long lifespan (10-15 years if well cared for). From a carpet cleaner’s perspective, this is the best choice as it is natural, durable and easy to clean and maintain.

Check also: How to Choose a Comfortable Sofa That Will Last You For Years

3. Wool:

Wool rugs are another optimal choice for your living room. Due to the lanolin in wool, this type of textile is naturally stain-resistant and much easier to clean than synthetic rugs. With a good, short pile wool rug, you won’t have any issues with spillages. If you get there in time, they are easy to blot up. Also, regular vacuuming helps keep them in tip-top condition. You can expect a lifespan of 15-20 years if you care for your wool rug properly. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that some wool rugs with strong colours can rub transfer their colour. If your rug is going over a wall-to-wall fitted carpet, this colour transfer is impossible to remove.

Read also: How to Clean and Maintain Handmade Oriental Rugs

Of course, these are just our guidelines for the best choice. Our selections are made from a professional cleaner’s point of view. This means that these are your best options regarding maintenance and cleaning. Another quick pointer, we would also recommend getting a short-pile or loop-pile rug. They are more stain-resistant and easier to clean than a long-pile one. 

How to Choose a Rug for Your Living Room by Size

Another thing you will want to consider when choosing your rug is the size you will be getting. This will depend on many things, such as the size of the room or the placement of your furniture.

A common mistake that people make is buying a floor covering that is far too small. Your standard, in-store sizes tend to be 6 x 9 feet, 8 x 10 feet or 9 x 12 feet. However, if this doesn’t suit your room type, you could always have a custom rug made. Generally, having a custom one made won’t end up being all that more expensive than buying the in-store sizes.

One thing to keep in mind if you are going for 1 big rug to cover your floor, you should keep about 4 to 8 inches of bare floor around all sides. You also have the option of sectioning your room using more than one rug. This is a good idea if you have a larger, oblong living room. You can define the sections of the space or even try layering rugs on top of the other. This would add a nice touch to the interior and work well as seasonal decorating.

You might also like: How to Choose Upholstery Fabric for Easy Care of Your Furniture

How to Choose a Rug for Your Living Room by Colour and Pattern

Now, for the final factor when decorating – how to choose a rug for your living room by colour and pattern. Of course, everyone should customize according to their own taste and style. However, here are some pointers to get a stylish, good-looking rug for your room type.

If you have bright, colourful furniture and want to have a colourful rug, you should go with patterns that compliment your soft furnishings. As for the colours, you should either go for complementing or contrasting colours. You don’t want anything that looks out of place or too in your face.

For a modern, stylish look, a single-colour rug will achieve this perfectly. You could also try a contrasting colour with patterns that match the lower colour. For example, if your lower layer is dark, try a contrasting single-colour rug or a bright colour with ornaments matching the dark shade of your floor.

You should also consider the room’s lighting before making a commitment. Cold tones suit well-lit rooms perfectly, while warm tones will complement a darker room nicely.

Check also: Decode Upholstery Labels and Choose the Best Sofa for Your Needs

There was so much to get done. Shopping, cleaning, setting the table, getting the children ready, cooking, and getting ourselves ready. By the time the guests arrived we were so exhausted, all we wanted to do was curl up in bed and call it a night.

And as if that wasn’t enough, when the guests had left, we discovered a large wine stain on the carpet. My wife let out a heavy sigh and exclaimed, “Not again!”.

Read also: Carpet Stain Removal – Even the most terrible stains can be removed

Keeping your home clean isn’t easy. The carpeted floors make it even worse. Not to mention having two daughters and a dog that are always traipsing in dirt, sand, and whatever else manages to cling to the bottoms of their shoes and paws.

However, the comfort, warmth, and aesthetic appeal that carpets bring to a room makes it worthwhile. The only downside is that they need constant care and attention.

And you can’t just ignore them either. Neglected carpets look worn, ugly, and dishevelled. Imagine the impression that would make on your guests!

As we all know, carpets can become dusty and grimy if not maintained properly. This creates the perfect environment for harmful microbes and foul smells to cultivate. Not only that, but dirty carpets also attract bacteria and insects that break down carpet fibres and breed nasty germs. These germs can be harmful to your health, comfort and air quality in your home.

That is why we have put together this guide to carpet cleaning and carpet maintenance. Here, you will find all you need to know about dealing with common and persistent stains. We will also cover the best, cost-effective products that will help you with that.

Section 1: The Importance of Carpet Cleaning

Dirty carpets can be a threat to your health and that of your family and guests. Every time you enter your house, you are bringing in allergens, such as pollen and dust with you.

These allergens can cause respiratory problems, such as wheezing, sneezing, and coughing. Dust and dirt particles are also an inviting home for bugs and insects that aren’t visible to the human eye. Not to mention the little mites that are gradually eating away at your carpet fibres.

When carpets get clogged with dust, dirt and debris at the edges, just between the carpet and the walls, it restricts the air circulation and creates a musty, unpleasant smell. The microbes also contribute to this smell and affect the air quality in your home.

Because this is something that you grow accustomed to, the smell will often go without detection to the occupants of the house. However, your guests are going to detect it immediately and wonder how you can stand it all day. Not really the impression you want to make on them, right?

Don’t get me started on pets, either. They bring in a number of harmful bacteria that cause illness every time you take them for a walk.

You might also like: Things You Can Do to Keep Your Carpets Clean

Another thing worth mentioning – if you are a tenant, you will want to be keeping your landlord’s carpet clean. Why? Your contract will more than likely contain a clause about leaving the house in tip-top condition. This has become a common point in all lease agreements these days. If you don’t comply, your landlord will pay for an end of tenancy cleaning service or a carpet cleaning service out of your deposit. And they aren’t going to choose a cheap one, are they?

What is the Average Carpet Lifespan?

The average lifespan of an inexpensive carpet in a family home is roughly 3-5 years. When we say family home, we would say 4 persons. Keep in mind that if you have a lot of guests coming in and out, you may only get 2-3 years out of your carpet.

A good, medium-grade carpet from nylon or triexta, however, could give you anywhere between 5 and 15 years. Top-of-the-range carpets should last 25 years if cared for properly.

It is good to keep in mind that if you have children or pets, your carpets are more likely to be subject to spillages, stains and friction. As you know, kids and animals don’t understand the importance of not having accidents on carpets. This means the fabric will degrade at a much faster rate.

Carpets exposed to sunlight are prone to discolouration and you will notice the fabric will become dull rather quickly. That is why you should have thick curtains or blinds in rooms that get a lot of light.

Another important factor to carpet lifespan is the length and quality of the fibre. These two things determine how much wear and tear the carpet can take.

Regular maintenance can extend the longevity of a carpet, regardless of your living conditions. Correct carpet cleaning techniques will also keep your floor coverings looking fresh and new for much longer. How you treat stains and spillages is key to the lifespan of your carpet.

Another few pointers to extending your carpets’ lifespan include removing stains as quickly as possible and vacuuming your carpet regularly. This is to make sure you keep your carpet free of dust, dirt, and insects that degrade the fabric.

Have your carpet professionally cleaned every 6-18 months to make sure you get the maximum lifespan out of it.

Check also: Pros and Cons of Getting a Viscose Rug

What Lives in Your Carpet?

Studies show that a horrifying 200,000 types of bacteria and fungi are lurking in every square inch of your carpet.

It is scary to know that your average carpet is 700x dirtier – and dangerous – than a toilet seat. It is estimated that the average UK household accumulates 20kg of grime yearly. Now imagine how much of those particles infest your carpet.

Dust and dirt also act as an abrasive against carpet fibres. Not only does it accelerate the wear-and-tear, affecting the appearance, but it can also lead to health issues.

An average of half a million dead skin cells daily are also working their way into the fibres. All together with dried saliva, hair, pet hair, and dander, all of which is fodder for microscopic insects. That would include fleas, ticks, mites, ants, flies, and spiders with their old cobwebs.

On top of that, you will typically bring in pollen, bits of dried leaves, as well as other organic matter from outside.

Carpets also absorb moisture. You know what that means – the perfect breeding grounds for biological growth.

If you have pets, as we do, the vast array of organisms living in your carpet will be magnified.

Pets attract fleas which subsequently lay eggs in your carpet fibres. Not to mention that your pets are more likely to walk faeces into the house after a walk in the park. The resulting bacteria could contain germs that cause E.coli, salmonella and Staphylococcus aureus (staph).

How Often Should I Clean My Carpets?

Vacuuming every 2-3 days is the recommended amount for removing dust, dirt and food particles that will harm your carpet fabric. Hoovering removes the majority of dust and other debris.

If you have a lot of people coming through your house, you should vacuum every day. You should also pay attention to areas subject to more traffic (entrance hall, living room) every 3-6 weeks using carpet cleaning products.

Any spillages must be treated as soon as possible. This will prevent stains and lasting damage.

How Often Should I Steam Clean My Carpets?

The best way to keep your carpets fresh and protected is by getting them steam-cleaned professionally. Steam, unlike other methods, penetrates carpet fibres, thus extracting much more dirt than a vacuum. For the majority of synthetic fibre carpets, this is the most effective cleaning method.

Natural fibre carpets, on the other hand, should be cleaned using a dry compound. Wool carpets can be cleaned using water, but you must be careful when doing it. 

If you have children, pets, or smokers living with you, it is recommended you professional steam-clean your carpets every 6 months to a year.

Households that don’t have a great deal of foot traffic or soiling won’t need to get a professional clean so often. Once a year to 18 months should suffice.

These guidelines are exactly that, however. When you notice a build-up of dirt around the doorway, you know it is time for a proper clean.

As a rule of thumb, you should clean your carpets more frequently if you:

• live with someone that has allergies;
• have young children and/or pets;
• live in a dusty region or get a lot of smog;
• have a habit of treading mud or oil into the house;
• host high-pollinating plants inside or near the house;
• live with smokers.

Now that you know the importance of carpet cleaning and how often you should do it, let us get to the main part. In the next section, you will find some of the best methods to deal with common stains on your carpet.

Section 2: How to Clean Common Carpet Stains?

Soiling your carpet is inevitable. No matter the precautions you take, your carpet is going to end up dirty.

The good news is that there are easy-to-follow, effective methods you can use for just about every type of stain. And the best part is that you can use typical household agents for most cases.

Here are some of the methods you will most likely end up needing:

How to Clean Vomit from a Carpet?

1. Use absorbent paper or an old towel to soak up most vomit and scrape away chunks of solid matter;
2. Sprinkle the contaminated area with salt or baking powder and leave the substance for 10 to 15 minutes. This will lift any residue from the carpet fibres;
3. Vacuum over the area to remove the absorbent, then treat the area with a commercial stain remover that can be used on carpets;
4. Blot the stain with a clean, damp cloth. Do not scrub the wet patch as this will push vomit into the carpet fibres;
5. Allow the afflicted area to dry overnight and, if possible, open a window to ventilate the room and get rid of the smell. If you have a steam cleaner, use it on the stained area to deep clean the fibres. A steam cleaner eliminates germs and bacteria that create foul odours.

How to Clean Human Urine from a Carpet?

1. Use an absorbent towel to blot up as much of the urine as possible. Be careful not to rub it in;
2. Mix a solution of water and vinegar; 1/2 a cup of warm water and 1/2 a cup of vinegar;
3. Saturate the afflicted area and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to absorb the residue. Now blot it dry;
4. Sprinkle baking powder or salt over the area;
5. Mix 3/4 cup of peroxide with 1tsp of dish soap. Stir the solution and gently pour it over the dry solution;
6. Put on some protective gloves and massage the solution into the carpet with your fingers;
7. Leave the area to dry out completely. You may want to lay some newspaper over the area so nobody walks through it;
8. Once the area is dry, vacuum up the salt/baking powder.

Check also: How to Remove Urine From Your Carpet and Get Rid of the Urine Smell

How to Clean Milk from a Carpet?

1. Use absorbent paper, cloth or towel to soak up as much milk as possible;
2. Take a small bowl and mix two cups of warm water with one tablespoon of liquid hand-washing detergent;
3. Lightly dampen a cloth with water and moisten it with the mixture;
4. Use the cloth to blot up the milk until the stain has disappeared;
5. Sprinkle cornstarch or ammonia over the affected area and leave it to rest for about 30-60 minutes, or however long it takes for the dry compound to soak up the remaining residue;
6. Once the area is dry, take out the hoover and vacuum the affected area of the carpet.

Check also: How to Remove Milk From Your Carpet

How to Clean Wine from a Carpet?

1. Take a dry cloth and blot up as much spilt wine as possible. The more you are able to soak up, the easier the stain is to remove;
2. Once you have soaked up the wine, pour cold water directly on to the stain. This will help to dilute whatever wine is left in the carpet fibre;
3. Continue blotting the stain with the cloth until you can’t get any more out;
4. Make a paste mix by adding baking soda to some water, one part soda and three parts water;
5. Apply the mixture to the tainted area and leave the paste to dry;
6. Hoover up the dry paste;
7. If there is still a visible stain, apply a carpet stain remover.

How to Clean Dried Blood from a Carpet?

1. Brush the affected area with a steel brush to loosen the blood particles and remove the mass of the stain from the surface;
2. Then mix one teaspoon of ammonia or dishwashing detergent with two cups of cold water;
3. Soak a dry, clean cloth or a sponge with the mixture and blot it onto the bloodstain until the stain disappears;
4. Leave the area to dry out. If the bloodstain persists, add hydrogen peroxide directly to the stain and cover it with a paper kitchen towel;
5. Then put something heavy on top of the paper towels to weigh it down so the substance is soaked up.

Read also: How to Remove Blood Stains from Carpet and Upholstery?

How to Remove Fresh Blood Stains from a Carpet?

1. Always wear gloves as handling blood is a health hazard;
2. Add some water to the bloodstain to dilute the stain and dab at it with a wet cloth. Rinse the area with cold water;
3. Dry the area with a towel or cloth, then lay some paper towels over the carpet to soak up any excess moisture;
4. Leave the area to dry out, then run the vacuum cleaner over it to plump up the carpet fibres;
5. Dispose of contaminated materials responsibly.

How to Clean Cooking Oil Stains from a Carpet?

1. Use paper towels to blot up as much oil as possible. Keep doing this until no more oil appears in the towel;
2. Apply a small amount of alcohol onto a clean washcloth and dab it onto the oil stain. Make sure to blot, and not wipe as this will spread oil across a wider surface;
3. Concoct a mixture made of 1/4 cup of water and a 1/4 teaspoon of dishwashing liquid. Ideally, the dishwashing liquid should be a well-known brand that is effective at fighting grease and does not contain any lanolin or bleach that could fade the colour of your carpet;
4. Apply the dishwashing mix to the oil stain using a clean sponge and work it into the affected area until the stain is no longer visible;
5. Wash the soap suds out with a small amount of water and blot it up with a clean towel;
6. Add a paper towel to the affected area to soak up the remaining drops of moisture;
7. Leave the area to dry.

Check also: How to Remove Grease Stains From Your Carpets?

How to Clean Motor Oil Stains from a Carpet?

1. Scrape the excess oil away with a butter knife. Be careful not to press down too hard as you could damage the carpet fibres;
2. Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch directly onto the oil stain and leave it to sit for 10-15 minutes;
3. Hoover the powder up;
4. Take a clean cloth and apply several drops of dry-cleaning solvent and dab it into the motor oil stain;
5. If the stain is still visible, mix two cups of warm water with a tablespoon of white vinegar and a tablespoon of dishwashing detergent and work the solution into the stain using a clean sponge;
6. Continue until the stain disappears;
7. Rinse the affected area with cold water and leave it to dry.

How to Clean Ink from a Carpet?

1. Take a can of hairspray and moisten the ink stain;
2. With a towel, dab the affected area gently. You should see the ink transferring to the towel;
3. Continue dabbing until the ink stain disappears;
4. Dampen a towel with lukewarm water and blot the area gently to clean up any remaining traces of hairspray and leave to dry.

How to Clean Acrylic Paint from a Carpet?

• Scrape away as much wet paint as possible with a putty knife;
• When the paint starts to dry out, scrape away the flakes with a steel brush;
• Vacuum the area then remove the pieces of paint and continue scraping until you can’t get any more flakes loose;
• Soak the area with Isopropyl alcohol concentrate and dab it with a dry cloth;
• Leave the patch for 15-20 minutes to allow the solution to loosen the particles;
• Now, blot the stain using a clean cloth to remove as much paint as possible. Be careful to use dabbing motions rather than scrubbing otherwise you could damage the carpet fibres;
• A steam cleaner is also useful at this point to deeply moisten the carpet fibres and break up the remaining particles of paint;
• Now, apply glycerin to a clean cloth and dab it into the paint stain;
• Repeat the blotting process until the stain is completely lifted;
• Leave the area to dry for a couple of hours then vacuum the carpet.

Read also: How to Prevent Carpets Stains When Painting and Decorating the House

How to Clean Makeup Products from a Carpet?

1. Nail Polish

Using a damp cloth, wet the stain. Make sure you use cold water;
Spray around 15 pumps of hairspray into the stain then rub five small splashes of concentrated alcohol onto the affected area;
Scrub the carpet with a small scrubbing brush;
Whilst your scrubbing, continue to add clean water to the area every minute or so until the stain is no longer visible.

2. Eyeshadow

1. If you have a light-coloured carpet, you can use hydrogen peroxide. Although it does have bleaching properties that can fade the colour of carpet fibres, a few drops on a light coloured carpet is safe;
2. Allow the solution to settle and work its way into the carpet fibres for a couple of minutes;
3. Take a dry microfiber cloth and blot the affected area with gentle dabs;
4. Once most of the moisture has been removed, take a new microfibre cloth and dampen it with water. Dab this cloth into the wet patch to remove traces of hydrogen peroxide;
5. Use a third cloth, or a new paper towel to soak up the water.

3. Eyeliner

1. Mix a small portion of water and white vinegar in equal measure;
2. Dab the mixture on to a clean cloth;
3. Working from the outside in so you don’t smudge the eyeliner into the carpet, blot the stain with the cloth until you lift as much as you can of the eyeliner;
4. Sprinkle the remaining vinegar solution on the affected area and lightly blot it with a clean microfibre cloth.

4. Foundation

1. It’s important to tackle foundation spillages asap otherwise it seeps into the carpet and creates a deeper stain.
2. First of all, scrape up any excess powder with a butter knife;
3. Mix some dish soap with cold water and lightly dampen it onto a clean cloth;
4. Working from the outside in, gently blot the stain until there is no more foundation on the carpet;
5. Remove the traces of soapy water by blotting a clean microfiber cloth on the wet patch of the carpet;
6. Leave the carpet to dry then give it a once over with a vacuum cleaner.

Section 3: Common House Remedies for Cleaning Carpets

Specially formulated carpet cleaning agents are by far the best option for removing stains. However, there are several household items, in most cases, that will do the job just as well.

Listed below, you will find several home remedies that will help you with carpet cleaning. And the best part is that you can concoct them with things you will probably have knocking around the house.

We have also included some alternatives you might want to consider if the stain removal doesn’t go to plan. However, only use the alternative as a last resort and be sure to take care.

1. Cleaning Carpets with Baking Soda

Baking soda is an all-time favourite for most people. This multifunctional little thing has numerous practical uses in your home – carpet cleaning being one of them.

Courtesy of its non-toxic, biodegradable properties, baking soda is an excellent home remedy you can use for cleaning and deodorizing carpets. Its pH-balanced properties fight odours, such as pet urine and smoke. And the best part is that it’s not abrasive, so it won’t wear down your carpet fibres.

Not only that, but baking soda works as an absorbent compound. This means that it absorbs excess moistures. It can be used for both oily and non-oily spillages and also helps dry out wet patches in your carpet quickly and efficiently.

To use baking soda for cleaning carpets, all you need to do is sprinkle a generous portion over the stain. The best option is to leave it to settle overnight, but you could also leave it for 5-6 hours during the day.

You will notice the baking soda is dry and crusty after a certain amount of time. This means it is time to vacuum up the residue.

2. Cleaning Carpets with Vinegar

White vinegar is arguably just as effective when carpet cleaning as baking soda. Its acidic properties mean that it is a natural antibacterial and antimicrobial agent.

Vinegar is a tough component for removing stains. Not only that though. It is also highly efficient in tackling mould and loosening dirt particles buried into your carpet fibres. You can mix it with deodorizing liquids to leave your carpets looking nice and fluffy, as well as smelling fresh.

An important reminder when using vinegar as a carpet cleaner, though. Always dilute it with equal amounts of water. Otherwise, it will discolour the fibres of your carpet.

To clean your carpets using vinegar, apply the mixture by either lightly sprinkling or spraying the solution over the stain. Alternatively, dab it into the stain with a white cloth.

Another important reminder – white vinegar may not always be effective on the first go. You may need to repeat the process a few times before it works.

3. Cleaning Carpets with Bleach

There is always a big question mark when it comes to carpet cleaning with bleach. Is it effective, is it a good idea? The short answer is yes, you can use bleach to clean only polypropylene carpets. Be careful to follow the procedure below exactly as instructed.

There are certain circumstances when bleach is not recommended.

Bleach contains strong chemicals. These chemicals can strip the colour out of carpet fibres. That is why you only use bleach on white to very light coloured floor coverings.

Bleach for cleaning wool carpets is a big no. It also isn’t the best option for cleaning synthetic carpets either.
Furthermore, bleach should always be diluted with water. Measure one tbsp of bleach to a gallon of water.

Another big no is mixing bleach with ammonia or vinegar.

To avoid children or pets suffering from chemical burns, always make sure they can’t reach the area that has been treated with bleach.

For the same reason, always wear rubber gloves when cleaning with bleach. Health and safety experts recommend wearing a mask. Overexposure to bleach can have negative effects on the respiratory system.

To clean carpets with bleach, apply your diluted solution and leave it for 30 minutes. Now, rinse out the area thoroughly using carpet shampoo. After which, give it another good rinse with clean water.

Household Products You Should Only Use as a Last Resort

Many household products can be used for carpet cleaning. However, many have been tried and tested, and have failed. There are also countless articles floating around the internet, some of which are credible, and some of which are not.

Below, we will list these products and the correct methods for using them if you must. Only ever try out these if all other options have failed.

The health risk is not worth the amount of money you’ll save from not buying a proper cleaning solution instead.

1. Borax

You may have heard of this one under its other name – sodium tetraborate. Borax is a natural ingredient that is used in several cleaning products. Among them, all-purpose cleaners and laundry detergent.

If you have some tough stains, adding borax to baking soda or vinegar helps give these home remedies an extra bit of strength. This will help to lift dirt and stains from your carpet.

Although borax is a low-toxicity pesticide, there are some doubts that overexposure to it could pose health risks. That is why it is recommended that homemade cleaning solutions with borax should be used sparingly.

To use borax for carpet cleaning, add a cup of it to a mix of baking soda and water. Then, blot the solution onto the stain and leave it for several hours to dry.

Place paper towels over the wet patch to speed up the drying process. When fully dry, give it a once over with a hoover.

2. Ammonia

Many commercial cleaning agents for the kitchen and bathroom contain ammonia. It is highly toxic, thus excellent for killing microbes. However, its fumes can cause headaches and respiratory issues if you inhale too much of it.

Ammonia is highly alkaline, making it corrosive. It can cause discolouration and should never be used on wool or other natural fibre carpets.

You can use ammonia to clean carpets. Use it sparingly and follow the health and safety precautions you will find below. Only ever use ammonia if you have tried and failed using other carpet cleaning options.

To use ammonia for cleaning stains, mix 2 tbsp of it with a cup of water. Use a sponge or a clean cloth to apply the solution to the affected area.

Immediately afterwards, blot the area with warm, soapy water (use dishwashing detergent). Be careful to only dab the area, never scrub. Allow the carpet to dry and give it a good vacuuming.

Read also: Ammonia As a Carpet Cleaning Solution

3. Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a natural chemical that is becoming increasingly popular as a carpet cleaning agent. This is because it is more environmentally friendly than commercial cleaning agents that you can find in supermarkets.

Although you can use hydrogen peroxide to clean carpets, it has chemical properties that will slightly discolour carpet fibres. To make it doesn’t damage your carpet, test it on a small area to determine the effect it will have.

Never use hydrogen peroxide that is more than 3% concentrate. Always dilute it with water.

To use hydrogen peroxide for carpet cleaning, mix 1 part to 5 parts hot water and add 1tsp of biodegradable dishwashing detergent. Use a soft brush to scrub the mixture onto the area. After cleaning, open a window to ventilate the room.

Section 4: How to Maintain your Clean Carpets

One of the most important factors when it comes to carpet maintenance is knowing how to properly care for your floor coverings. This will help you prevent your floors from getting overly dirty and keeps them looking fresh and new for much longer.

To increase your carpet’s lifespan, you will need to clean it regularly. You need to remove dirt and grime that causes friction to get more wear out of it. Otherwise, you will be creating the perfect environment for millions of bugs to settle down and nibble away at your carpet fibres.

The main rule that everyone knows – regular vacuuming. How often you should hoover depends on how much foot traffic passes through your house:

In an average household of 2-4 people, you can get away with vacuuming every 2-3 days.
However, if you have pets or children, you should hoover every day.

Carpet manufacturers will typically recommend you steam clean your carpets every 6-12 months. However, natural fibre carpets will need an alternative professional cleaning service, such as encapsulation or dry compound cleaning.

All of the above services effectively penetrate carpet fibres, unlike regular hoovering and DIY treatments. This not only makes your carpet look plush and new but also protects them from microbes that degenerate carpet fibres. As a result, giving your carpet a longer lifespan. Another thing you can do to keep your carpets clean longer is to request stain protection during your next carpet cleaning appointment.

Read also: 9 Things You Need to Know About Stain Protection for Carpets and Upholstery

How to Protect Carpets from Getting Dirty Quickly

Every time you enter the house, your shoes are carrying in soil, oil, dirt, pollen, fertiliser, and all manner of bacteria. All of this is getting traipsed through your carpet. This is why shoes should be left at the front door.

Cooking oil is another devil for carpets. If you have carpeted areas near the kitchen, close the doors to prevent them from getting to them. You would be surprised by how fair cooking oil can travel once it starts spitting.

Environmental experts advise a professional carpet clean every 1-2 years.

You may be wondering when is the best time to get your carpet professionally cleaned. The best time to get it done is before it looks dirty and worn. If it gets to that point, it will be very hard to restore it to its initial new look. Did you know they can hold up to 10lbs of soil per square foot before they start looking dirty?

Carpet fibres develop a build-up of dirt if not deep cleaned at least once a year. When this goes too far, it will be much tougher to remove grime and harmful microbes, even with a professional clean.

Another important factor – using the correct detergent and applying the right technique. Always remember, there isn’t one universal method or solution. Each carpet is individual.

Read also: 6 Ways to Keep Furniture and Carpets Clean All Year Round

Section 5: Best Methods for Cleaning Carpets

For general carpet cleaning and regular maintenance – use your vacuum and simple cleaning products.

However, there are going to be days when cleaning your carpet isn’t going to be as easy as that. Sometimes vacuuming and scrubbing until your fingers are raw just isn’t enough to deal with blemishes and dirt.

At this point, you are going to have to suck it up and admit that your ordinary cleaning methods aren’t enough to get your carpet looking spick and span. The good news is that you have some alternative methods that will be more effective.

Check also: Which carpet cleaning method is the best?

1. Steam Cleaning or Hot Water Extraction

Steam cleaning is a process that uses water that is heated at 150°F-200°F. As a result, steam will be created. This steam will penetrate the fibres of your carpet much better than any scrubbing with various detergents. The steam dissolves the dirt, leaving you with a fresh, soft and bacteria-free carpet.

You will have to add a cleaning agent to your steam cleaner. The machine will then agitate the fibres with a soft brush. You then leave the agent to settle for a short while before washing through and leaving to dry at room temperature.

One of the benefits of steam cleaning is that the high temperatures effectively loosen dirt particles. The temperature also kills microbiological organisms, such as bacteria, fungus and dust mites. After which, the debris is sucked up using a hoover.

Furthermore, steam cleaning allows you to reach tight nooks and crannies that you can’t always get to with a vacuum or other cleaning methods. That is why vetted technicians always recommend a good steam cleaning over other methods.

Having said that, this method may not be ideal for all carpet types. It is good for wool blend and synthetic carpets. However, if you have a natural fibre carpet, such as viscose, tencel, seagrass, or just, your best option is to try dry compound cleaning.

Another downside to steam cleaning is that you will use quite a lot of water. This means that it will take a while for your carpet to dry out.

Steam cleaning is one of the most popular methods, however, it remains one of the more expensive ones.

2. Carpet Shampooing

Shampooing (or foaming) is another option, although not that popular nowadays. Many professional cleaning agencies offer a shampooing service, typically coupled with steam cleaning.

This method is fast and inexpensive, however, it is not the most effective way to draw out dirt and grime. Not only that, but because the foam is left to dry without being rinsed, it often leaves a sticky, unpleasant residue on your carpet.

You can try vacuuming your carpet to remove this residue, although not all hoovers have enough suction power to deal with all of the foam.

If you have a steam cleaner handy, this will loosen the hardened foam and allow you to completely remove it. Namely why shampooing and steam cleaning come as a coupled service.

3. Encapsulation

Foam encapsulation is a new technology that is more environmentally friendly than other methods. You could consider it the evolution of carpet shampooing. It is capable of tackling tough stains and deeply ingrained dirt.

Encapsulation uses synthetic detergents that crystallise into powder after drying. This then creates a base that loosens dirt particles in the carpet, making it easier to suck up carpet debris.

As a result, this method provides a deeper cleanse so that you needn’t clean your carpets as often – even in high foot traffic areas.

Another advantage of the encapsulation method – you don’t use as much water, meaning a quicker drying time.

The only downside to encapsulation is that you need a motorised rotary brush for the technique to be effective. Add that to the specially formulated cleaning solution and the method ends up being a bit more expensive than other options.

4. Bonnet Cleaning

Bonnet cleaning is the ideal routine maintenance for lightly soiled carpets. This method only really removes particles from the surface, but it is the best quick-fix solution. And what’s more, it doesn’t create a disturbance to your general day-to-day activities like some of the other options.

Before starting the bonnet cleaning process, you should always give the carpet a once over with a vacuum. This will remove surface dust, hairs and loose dirt particles. Then you spray the carpet with a chemical solution and leave it to rest.

After the solution has been given time to react with the fibres, cleaners would generally use a heavy-duty motorised floor machine. It is fitted with large absorbent pads, or better known as a bonnet, and spun over the carpet at 100-300 rpm.

This rotary action works the chemicals into the carpet fibres. The pads are then absorbing dirt from the carpet surface.

Bonnet cleaning doesn’t require much moisture. This means your carpets will dry quickly. That is what makes it one of the most popular methods in hotels with a lot of foot traffic that need to keep all areas open to avoid inconveniencing their guests.

However, although this method keeps your carpet looking bright and clean, it doesn’t deal with deeply set grime. Your clean appearance isn’t going to be very long-lasting. This is because it doesn’t penetrate the deeper parts of the pile.

Another disadvantage of bonnet cleaning is that your carpet fibres are going to retain a build-up of the chemical residue. This will eventually lead to your floor covering disintegrating at a faster rate.

5. Deep Cleaning or Dry Cleaning

This method of carpet cleaning came along in the 1980s and has become quite popular nowadays. The idea is that you use a dry compound formula to deal with the dirt.

Dry cleaning, also known as compound cleaning, uses a powdered solution that has the ability to deep clean without water. This method is considered an effective evolution of bonnet cleaning.

The methodology has more or less the same concept as bonnet cleaning. A powder compound is applied to the carpet and left to work its way into the fibres.

After which, a motorised rotary machine is used to work in the remaining compound into the deeper parts of the carpet. This allows the compound to settle and give the carpet a thorough clean.

The compound used for this method is biodegradable. It dissolves dirt and grime and can be later vacuumed up along with all the other particles.

However, this may not be the case with plush carpets. Long-pile floor coverings are much more difficult for cleaning solutions to successfully deep clean them. The powdered compound can end up getting trapped in it and will accumulate over time, along with all the dirt.

Section 6: Professional Carpet Cleaning Services

We all know that keeping your house clean is a time-consuming chore that sucks out all your energy. And that’s before we even get to deep-cleaning the carpets.

Sometimes you need a bit of professional help to take the weight off your shoulders. Not only do carpet cleaning agencies equip their technicians with specialised tools and products, but they also know how to care for your carpet correctly.

That alone can end up saving you hundreds and hundreds of pounds. The more you care for your carpet, the longer it will last.

Restoring your carpet’s shine with a deep cleanse not only helps with its appearance but also deals with nasty bacterias. You don’t want a health hazard in your home, especially if you have children that are still developing their immune system.

Professional carpet cleaners will take the hassle and stress of deep carpet cleansing. This is because they are vetted technicians with years of hands-on experience that know how to get the job done.

You should consider contacting the pros in the following situations:

• when you don’t have enough time on your hands;
• if you don’t have the correct equipment;
• your carpet is looking dirty even after you’ve tried vacuuming and commercial cleaning products;
• when your carpet has stubborn stains that won’t come out;
• if you are worried about attempting a home stain removal;
• you have an expensive carpet;
• you need to recover your security deposit at the end of your tenancy.

Courtesy of their professional equipment, professional carpet cleaning really does make a difference. You just can’t reach the same results with commercial products.

Another thing, using commercial steam cleaning apparatus is not as effective as industrial machines. And scrubbing your carpets by hand with a brush will end up damaging your carpet fibres over time.

Don’t risk wearing your carpet thin before its time.

You might also like: Designing for Elegance and Endurance: Material Must-Haves for Luxury Communal Spaces

Important Factors When Choosing Rental Flooring

Before we begin, we want to underline the main factors you should keep in mind when choosing flooring for your rental:

1. Cost – of course, one of the most important things to consider is cost. As a landlord, your aim is to make money. Making the right decision is a crucial part of making sure you do just that. You want to go for something that is attractive so as to rent your property out as soon as possible. However, you don’t want to go and buy luxurious flooring as it can be extremely expensive to replace if damaged.
2. Durability – another vital factor. If you go and buy the cheapest flooring you can find, it is highly likely that you will need to replace it within the year. You want something that is quality material that will withstand a lot of wear and tear. Durable materials are essential to avoiding the constant replacement of your flooring.
3. The function of the room – the type of flooring you choose also depends on the area you are dealing with. You don’t want to go carpeting the bathroom, for instance. It’s not the best option for eating and cooking areas either. Rooms that have a lot of humidity are going to need hard flooring as well, as moisture damages carpets.
4. Keeping it neutral – your rental property needs to be neutral. You don’t want to go designing it to your taste as not everyone is going to like what you like. That’s why you should stick to neutral colours and materials that will appeal to most people.

Read also: Pros and Cons of Getting a Viscose Rug

Carpet vs. Wood Flooring for Your Rental Property

Now that we have gotten those important factors out of the way, it is time to get to the main point. Here, we will walk you through the pros and cons of each option. We will also take a look at the best choice to make while taking the room type and target tenants into consideration.

1. Carpet Flooring for Your Rental Property

Carpets bring a cosy feel to a home. This may be more attractive to some tenants, such as families. It is always nice to have a soft, warm rug under your feet when you are walking. However, there are many things you need to take into consideration before choosing a carpet:

• If your rental is going to be let out to families, you might want to choose carpets for only some of the rooms. For instance, the living room and master bedroom. This will provide a nice, homey feel to the property.
• Putting carpet in children’s bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and damp areas is a definite no.
• When choosing carpet, make sure to get something stain resistant that is easy to clean. Short pile or loop pile wool carpets are a good option.
• Before your tenants move in, you will want to stain protect them.
• Another must – inform the tenants that they are not to tackle any stains or spillages on their own, not under any circumstance. They must inform you immediately so can deal with the stain removal.
• Carpets in bedrooms can help rent out a property quicker and allow you to ask for a higher monthly rent.
• Carpets in your rental will likely have a lifespan of between 2-5 years. They will rarely last longer than that. That is why you don’t want to get anything too expensive. You don’t want to go too cheap either, however, because then you will be likely to get only 1-2 years out of them.
• Another important point is that you will more than likely have to conduct professional carpet cleaning between each tenant. This is so as the property stays looking fresh, new, and attractive to potential renters.

2. Wood Flooring for Your Rental

Now let us take a look at wood flooring in comparison to carpets. If you are uncertain of the type of tenants you will be welcoming into your rental, this is definitely the wiser choice. Here are a few things to consider when going for this option:

• If you want to go for something that looks great, is easy to replace, and isn’t over your budget, you should go for commercial grade laminate flooring. It will also be much easier for your tenants to maintain than carpet.
• We definitely suggest going for this type of flooring if you are uncertain about the tenants you will be accomodating.
• If you will be housing students, young adults, or allowing people with pets, this is your best choice. As we all know, the young ‘uns have other priorities and won’t really be thinking about cleaning and maintenance.
• Another thing is that a lot of people like to give their house a more homely feeling. If you have laminate flooring in your rental, tenants can bring their own rugs or carpets that suit their own taste.

Carpet vs. Wood Flooring – Summary

Now that we have gone over the important points of choosing flooring for your rental, let’s just quickly summarise. Although carpets can give a place a cosy feel, they aren’t so easy to maintain. They can increase the rent, however, you need to think about whether that increase will cover the maintenance costs. When you go for wood flooring, you know it is the safer option. This way you won’t have to arrange both end of tenancy cleaning and carpet cleaning between tenants. Make sure you make the right choice and don’t end up emptying your wallet for careless mistakes.

Read also: How to Choose Upholstery Fabric for Easy Care of Your Furniture

You might also like: How to Choose a Comfortable Sofa That Will Last You For Years

When you are in a shop for carpets, you will notice the salesman always focuses on the luxurious texture as well as pitching you a good price. What most salesmen don’t know or even consider is that often the soft, long-piled fibres can be the worst option. When crumbs find their way into the fibres along with the rapidly gathering dust, it creates the perfect environment for welcoming dust mites, moths, and other unwanted visitors. This leads to your once luxurious floor covering looking old and worn after a year or so. That’s why our team of carpet cleaners at Cleaner Cleaner has put together this guide on how to choose carpets for your new home, helping you achieve that stylish home interior that lasts.

How to Choose Carpets for Your New Home by Getting the Best Fibre Type

When it comes to choosing carpets for your new home, yes, the colours and designs are important. But it is better to choose a fibre type first, then continue looking for the perfect fit for your home. This is because it can be disheartening finding the ideal floor covering and then discovering that maybe it is not the best choice due to the material it is made from.

A salesman will typically go for convincing you to buy a long pile, soft fibre, such as polypropylene. However, the issue with this type of material is that they gather grime and dust easily. It provides a warm and dark environment with debris stuck in the fibres – the perfect habitat for dust mites, moths, and other unwanted squatters. Because they are so difficult to maintain, their pile goes flat and they end up looking rather old and battered after a certain amount of time.

Read also: Pros and Cons of Getting a Viscose Rug

That is why when you are looking for the luxurious, soft feel in a carpet, you are better off going for one with a thick underlay. It is the underlay that will give you that bouncy, luscious feel that you are looking for in a rug. We would also recommend going for either a short pile or loop pile wool carpet. The short, dense piles don’t accumulate too much debris and dust. Also, any stains or spillages will be much easier to deal with.

You might also like: How to Clean and Maintain Handmade Oriental Rugs

Why go for wool over polypropylene? We know you are likely to be persuaded using the “polypropylene is bleach-cleanable” argument. However, a good wool carpet that is cared for properly can give you up to 25 years of comfort if cared for properly. Whereas polypropylene and other synthetic rugs are going to give you at most 10-15 years. They aren’t made to bounce back and will end up looking worn and old. Wool carpets are made with a natural, renewable fibre that deters bacteria and dust mites. Also, wool carpet maintenance is much less hard work than any synthetic rug.

Check out also: The Best Way to Clean your Carpets at Home

How to Choose Carpets for Your New Home According to the Room’s Style

Now let us take a look at creating the perfect home interior by choosing carpets for your new home according to room style. Of course, we know that everybody has their own individual style, but these guidelines can help you achieve a beautiful, cosy home.

1. Choosing Carpets for the Bedroom

Your bedroom is your safe place, so you will want to go for a nice soft carpet that covers the entire, or at least nearly the entire floor. This will create a cosy, comfortable environment. You will also want to go for your favourite colours or designs, choosing something that will feel more you.

2. Choosing Carpets for Guest Rooms/Children’s Rooms

Here, if you decided to go for long fibres in the other rooms, we highly recommend you stick with short pile floor coverings. Children and guests have the tendency of being a bit careless regarding spillages and whatnot. They also might end up walking around in shoes, so you will want something that will be easy to clean up. We also recommend you get a carpet with various prints or geometrical shapes. This will help hide any marks and trails if you end up with a permanent stain. 

3. Choosing Carpets for the Hall/Entrance Room

For the entrance room to your home, we recommend you go with the same trick for guest rooms. Get something with patterns, such as geometrical shapes, that will help hide any permanent mishaps.

You might also like: Designing for Elegance and Endurance: Material Must-Haves for Luxury Communal Spaces

4. Choosing Carpets for the Living Room

For your living room, you might want to consider the size of the room before making any decision. If your chill-out zone is quite large, you might want to consider sectioning it off using smaller carpets. This will help divide your TV lounging area and eating area, for example, into visible zones.

If your living room is smaller, get a pretty floor covering that covers the entire floor to give it some life. Smaller rugs would emphasize the on the not-so-big room. Try out some bright colours and diagonal patterns to give the illusion of a wider space.

Check also: How to Choose a Rug for Your Living Room

How to Choose Carpet Colours

The colour of your carpet can largely affect the entire feel of your home. It is important to know how to choose carpets with the best colour coordination that will give your home interior a stylish look.

• For putting emphasis on your furniture. If you have nice, fancy furniture with attractive patterns, you will want to choose a monochromatic carpet. Otherwise, you will have too much going on and take away attention from your lovely furniture.
• If you are looking for a modern, stylish interior – pick a carpet that doesn’t cover the entire floor. Make sure it matches the tone of the floor beneath it.
• For matching with dark floors. Either go for a contrasting colour or a bright carpet with ornaments matching the dark shade of your flooring.
• Choosing a carpet for a well-lit room. Here you will want to opt for cold tones that will suit the brightly lit room, not making it too bright.
• Choosing a carpet for a darker room. You will want to select a floor covering with warm tones to compensate for the dimness.

Read also: 6 Ways to Keep Furniture and Carpets Clean All Year Round

You may also like: How to clean the 3 most common types of carpets

General Cleaning and How to Care for Synthetic Rugs

Maintainance is key to sustaining your rugs hygiene and appearance. If you put in a little effort frequently, it will save you having to buy a new rug prematurely. We recommend you incorporate the little tasks into your weekly and monthly routines to preserve your rug’s new-look. Here are a few tips on how to care for your synthetic rug:

1. The first and most vital of your tasks is vacuuming. If you hoover your rugs twice weekly, you will minimise the chance of dirt working its way so deep into the fibres that it ruins it. When you have children or pets, you may have to hoover 3-4 times a week, or get a robotic vacuum – these gadgets are very efficient in removing dust and pet hair. If possible, it may be a good idea to pick your rug up and give it a good shaking outside.
2. When you notice a spill on your carpet, tackle the issue immediately. If those nasty stains get the chance to dry, it is near impossible to remove them. Paper towels or absorbent cloths are a good thing to have handy for these kinds of disasters.
3. Call in professional cleaners to give your rugs a nice freshening up. No matter the amount of attention you give to your carpets, nothing can achieve the same results like a little bit of professional care. Your floor coverings will be grateful.

Read also: How to Clean Your Wool Rug.

How to Clean up Spills and Stains Synthetic Rugs

No matter the amount of care, sooner or later you are going to have to deal with a stain on your rug. Spills and accidents are unavoidable and that is why you need to be armed with the knowledge of how to deal with such mishaps. The best way to do this is to remove the stain as soon as it occurs. However, we are humans. Sometimes we miss the stains. Here is our advice on how to deal with general carpet stains:

1. Make sure there is no dry dirt on the spill. You don’t want any more dirt sneaking its way into the fibres. A vacuum could help with this task.
2. If the stain still holds moisture, blot it gently with a paper towel or an absorbent cloth. Never rub, you don’t want to end up damaging the fibres or rubbing the dirt in, causing a stain.
3. Now get your cleaning agent. You can use a shop-bought detergent or a DIY solution. The choice is yours.
4. Apply your cleaning solution to an absorbent towel. Start blotting the area gently. Use different parts of the towel so as not to reapply dirt that you have removed. Start from the outer edge of the stain inwards. You don’t want it to spread.
5. Leave the cleaning agent for 5 minutes to work its magic.
6. Now get a clean cloth and dampen it lightly with cool water. Use this to rinse out the suds from the cleaning solution.
7. Once you have removed all traces of the solution, get a dry, clean cloth or paper towels and use it to blot up any excess moisture.

Check out also: The Best Way to Clean your Carpets at Home.