Cart is empty Even on vacuuming regularly, dirt, grime, and stains can become submerged into carpet fibers deeper than a regular vacuum can reach. Thus, shampooing your carpet once or twice a year, especially if you have pets in the home is a good idea to keep the house clean. Carpet shampooing can be fulfilled by hand or steam cleaning using heat, water, and detergent to loosen and remove tough stains, spills, and odors.
An economical way to clean your rug is to rent a steam cleaner. And if you have pets you might even consider buying one, you’ll likely recoup your investment quickly. DIY cleaning can also be done with a regular vacuum. However, professional carpet cleaning companies can take care of everything in a few hours, including the labor of moving furniture. Down below we’ll walk you through the options and process of how to shampoo carpet.
When To Shampoo Carpet?
The frequency of shampooing your carpet can vary depending on several factors such as foot traffic, presence of pets, allergies, and the type of carpet you have.
As per the experts, cleaning your carpet at least once every 12 months removes accumulated dirt, filth, and allergens. However, this schedule may need to be adjusted based on the factors mentioned above. For households with children or pets, more frequent cleaning, such as every 6 to 12 months, may be necessary to keep the carpet clean and fresh.
Ultimately, it’s essential to assess your specific circumstances and adjust your carpet cleaning frequency accordingly. Regular vacuuming between shampooing can also help to maintain the cleanliness of your carpet and extend its lifespan.
If any of the following symptoms appear, immediately you may need to hire professionals to clean or shampoo your carpet:
- Visible Stains and Spills: If you notice stubborn stains or spills that won’t come out with regular vacuuming, it’s a sign that your carpet needs a deeper clean.
- Persistent Odors: Lingering odors, especially if you have pets, indicate that dirt and grime have penetrated deep into the carpet fibers and require shampooing to remove them effectively.
- High Traffic Areas: Carpets in high-traffic areas tend to accumulate more dirt and debris over time, making them prime candidates for shampooing.
- Allergies or Respiratory Issues: If household members experience any kind of allergies or respiratory issues, shampooing the carpet can improve indoor air quality.
Necessary Tools And Supplies
Here’s a comprehensive list of tools and supplies that you will need to shampoo carpet, effectively at home:
- Tools
- Carpet Shampooer or Steam Cleaner
- Vacuum Cleaner
- Carpet Brush or Scrubber
- Spray Bottle
- Bucket or Mixing Container
- Cleaning Cloths or Rags
- Fan or Air Circulation System
- Supplies
- Carpet Shampoo or Detergent
- Spot Cleaners or Stain Removers
- Water
- Protective Gloves and Eyewear
- Drying Equipment
How To Shampoo Carpet?
Following are the steps to be followed to shampoo carpet to keep it dirt free:
- Preparation:
- Remove furniture from the carpeted area.
- Vacuum the carpet thoroughly to remove loose dirt and debris.
- Treat a stubborn stains with a pre-treatment solution.
- Choose a Shampooing Method:
- Hand Shampooing: Apply a carpet shampoo solution onto the carpet surface, scrub with a brush or sponge, and then rinse with clean water.
- Steam Cleaning: Use a carpet steam cleaner or rented machine, following the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing detergent and water and operating the machine.
- Shampooing Process:
- Divide the carpeted area into sections for easier management.
- Apply the shampoo solution evenly, working in small sections.
- Scrub the carpet with a brush or machine, paying extra attention to stains and high traffic areas.
- Rinse the carpet thoroughly with clean water to remove shampoo residue.
- Drying:
- Before replacing the furniture or walk on rug, its important to air dry the carpet completely.
- Use fans or open windows to aid in the drying process, if necessary.
Tips To Keep The Carpet Clean
Maintaining clean carpets not only enhances the appearance of your home but also contributes to a healthier indoor environment. Here are some tips to help you keep your carpets clean and fresh:
- Regular Vacuuming: Vacuum your carpets at least once a week, in high-traffic areas. Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to effectively trap dust, dirt, and allergens.
- Use Doormats: Place doormats at the entrances to prevent dirt and debris from being tracked onto your carpets. Encourage family members and guests to wipe their feet before entering.
- Remove Shoes Indoors: No-shoes policy in the house can really be effective to minimize the amount of dirt and debris brought onto your carpets. Provide a designated area for shoes near the entrance.
- Clean Spills Promptly: Act quickly to clean up spills and stains to prevent them from setting into the carpet fibers. Blot the spill with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel, working from the outer edges toward the center to prevent spreading.
- Use Carpet Protectors: Apply carpet protectors, such as Scotchgard, to newly cleaned carpets to create a barrier against spills and stains. Reapply as needed, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Rotate Furniture: Regularly move furniture to prevent permanent indentations in the carpet and to distribute wear and tear evenly. Use furniture pads or coasters under heavy furniture legs to minimize damage.
- Professional Cleaning: Get professional carpet cleaning done at least once a year, or more frequently as needed, to remove deep-seated dirt, allergens, and stains. Choose a reputable carpet cleaning company with experience in handling your carpet type.
- Spot Test Cleaning Products: Before using any cleaning products or solutions on your carpet, perform a spot test in an inconspicuous area to ensure compatibility and prevent damage or discoloration.
- Regular Maintenance: Inspect your carpets regularly for signs of wear, damage, or stains. Address any issues promptly to prevent them from worsening and to prolong the life of your carpets.
- Use Rug Runners or Area Rugs: Place rug runners or area rugs in high-traffic areas or under furniture to protect the underlying carpet from excessive wear and tear.
By following the above mentioned tips and incorporating them into your regular cleaning routine, you can maintain clean and fresh carpets that enhance the comfort and aesthetics of your home.
FAQs
How often should I shampoo my carpet?
The frequency of shampooing a carpet depends on foot traffic and the type of carpet. Experts recommend shampooing your carpet at least once every 12 months. However, households with pets, children, or allergies may require more frequent cleaning, such as every 6 to 12 months.
Can I use hair Shampoo for Carpet cleaning?
No, using hair shampoo is a bad idea for carpet cleaning as it leaves behind a residue which can cause skin irritation and allergies. It is recommended to consult the manufacturer’s instructions for your carpet cleaning or ask a professional for the same.