How to easily clean a carpet: a method that gives a professional result

Carpets and rugs create a special atmosphere of comfort at home. They complete the interior, are pleasant to walk on with bare feet and keep you warm in winter. However, dirt gets trapped in their pile, and it is important to know how to clean the carpet properly to get rid of dust and crumbs.

Most cleaning products can discolor carpets over time, shortening their lifespan, and may also damage the pile. But OBOZREVATEL has found out that there is a four-step cleaning procedure that will provide a professional-level result and will not damage the carpet.

Preparing for Cleaning

If possible, it is better to clean the carpet not in living quarters but where it can be properly washed and dried, for example, on a terrace or in a paved yard. Before working on the item, you should put something under it to prevent it from getting dirty from the inside and getting damaged. Old towels or bedding are ideal for this. Also, read the label to know exactly how to clean your carpet. And be sure to test all the products you plan to use for cleaning in an inconspicuous area.

First Step: Remove Dust and Solid Dirt

If you wash a carpet that hasn't been thoroughly vacuumed beforehand, dry dirt will turn into liquid dirt, spread over it, and may leave stains. Therefore, thoroughly vacuum over the fleecy surface of the object, or even better, beat it out afterward. This step may be enough to care for your home carpet because it does not collect much dirt. However, you can still freshen it up with baking soda, which neutralizes unpleasant odors. Just sprinkle it on top of the carpet, leave it overnight, and vacuum it up in the morning.

Second Step: Removing Stains

If there is a visible stain on your carpet, determine what type of contaminant it is. It can be food and drink stains, remnants of cosmetics, paint or markers, pet marks, etc. It is best to clean stains when they are fresh. Use a spoon to scrape off all the dirt you can, whether it's dry or wet. Then blot the stain with a clean cloth or paper towel. Repeat until all possible liquid is absorbed. Do not rub the fibers to avoid rubbing dirt into them. Then treat the stain with a cleaner that is appropriate for the type of stain - dishwashing liquid, carpet shampoo, a special stain remover, vinegar, etc. Don't use liquid cosmetic soap or laundry detergent - they leave marks on carpets. And avoid excessive foaming - it is difficult to remove the foam from the pile completely. Clean the stain from the edges to the center. Do not rub it but rather treat it several times until it disappears completely. 

Step Three: Washing

If conditions permit, rinse the carpet with clean water. Water it until the water runs clear. Next, blot the item with a dry cloth to absorb any excess liquid and proceed to the last step.

Step Four: Drying

Leave the carpet to dry outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. The main thing is that no one should walk on it while it is drying. This will crush the fibers, and the item will not be soft and fluffy. If you can, dry the carpet on a rope or hanging on the wall. And do not put it back until it is completely dry. Even a small amount of moisture can cause mold to form in the carpet. 

Earlier, OBOZREVATEL told you how to get rid of unpleasant odors in the kitchen.

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