| Carpet
Selection
In selecting your color, take the
time to look at large samples in your home, both by daylight and lamplight
in the evening. The color you choose will look different under different
lighting conditions.
Light colored carpets will show more
soil and require more maintenance than dark colors. Darker colors of carpeting
are more effective in high traffic areas. Multi-colors and patterned carpets
are especially effective in hiding soil.
The performance and quality of a carpet
is directly related to the amount and quality of fiber that goes into the
pile. The better the fiber and the denser it is packed, the better the
carpet will perform. Thin, less dense carpet will lose its surface appearance
faster. It is best to buy the highest quality you can afford.
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Stain
Removal
Treatment of the affected area should
begin immediately upon discovery. The more time that elapses before treatment,
the more difficult a stain will be to remove.
First scrape food spill gently with
a spoon or dull knife, removing as much as possible.
Always work from outer edge of the
stain towards the center to avoid spreading. Blot*, do not rub or scrub,
as the carpet may fuzz.
When using a mild detergent, use a
clear, non-bleach laundry detergent. Do not use cloudy detergents as they
can leave a sticky residue. Use only 1/4 teaspoon of detergent to 32 ounces
of water. Follow detergent cleaning with clear water rinsing and then blot
dry as much as possible.
For any stain removal, use a white
cloth or paper towel for cleanup.
* Find further advice on stain emergencies
by clicking here for 3M’s
Stain Database
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Vacuum
Regularly
Most dirt, and even dust, takes the
form of hard particles. When left in the carpet these gritty, sharp particles
abrade the pile of the carpet. Regular vacuuming not only prolongs the
life of the carpet, but will enhance its appearance as well. Most soiling
in carpet is of the dry, particle type which can be removed with a vacuum
cleaner.
Vacuum high traffic lanes daily, medium
to high traffic areas twice weekly, and the entire house at least once
a week.
Use a vacuum with a rotating brush
or beater bar. Change the bags often and check the beater bars for burs
and gouges so as not to damage the surface of the carpet. Some thick loop
pile carpets will fuzz if a rotating brush vacuum is used. In this case
we recommend a suction vacuum only.
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Preventative
Maintenance
The use of mats or runners at all
home entrances and on uncarpeted areas adjacent to carpet will reduce soil
and moisture in traffic areas. Clean mats and any other rugs placed over
carpet regularly.
The use of furniture coasters to distribute
the weight of heavy items is also recommended, especially for furniture
with wheels. Take care when moving furniture with wheels by putting a protective
barrier between the wheels and the carpet.
To extend the beauty of your carpeting,
close drapes or blinds during hours of direct sunlight.
Exercise extreme caution with all
bleaches, tile cleaners, mildew removers, oven cleaners, drain openers
and plant food. They are strong chemicals that can permanently discolor
or dissolve carpet fibers.
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Cleaning
Recommendations
Even with regular vacuuming, soil
particles and oily dirt will cling to the carpet fibers. With foot traffic
these particles and oily dirt are driven deep into the carpet. We recommend
professional hot water extraction every 18 to 24 months. Periodic cleaning,
using the hot water extraction method performed by a professional cleaner,
will refresh carpet appearance.
The most used areas, such as entrances,
doorways, traffic lanes, and in front of chairs will collect dirt faster
than other areas. Clean these areas as they begin to show soil. This will
stop dirt from spreading, and will extend the time between professional
cleaning.
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