Water Damage Restoration

Carpet Cleaning Tips

Q: How often should carpets be professionally cleaned? 
A: Most major carpet and carpet fiber manufacturers recommend carpets be professionally cleaned every 18 months in order to remove particulate soils that cause carpeting to wear prematurely and affect the appearance of the carpet. However the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), who takes a position of the carpet being cleaned for health and not appearance, recommends that carpets be cleaned annually. However, carpets that are subjected to extreme soiling or heavy use, particularly high-traffic areas, or carpets installed in homes occupied by persons with allergies or respiratory problems, require increased cleaning frequency.

Q: Will a do-it-yourself carpet cleaning machine do the same job? 
A: No, it is the technician who is using the machine that makes a difference. Well-trained technicians can do the best job with most professional equipment, chemistry, and experience. Home owners who rent do-it-yourself equipment do not have the necessary training to understand that there are many different types of carpets and carpet fibers and the chemistry is not the same for all variations. In addition, there is no understanding of the protective coatings and stain resistant finishes that are built into today’s carpet.

Q: Can carpet really be restored after water damage? 
A: The best answer is, it depends. Time and water source are critical factors in determining whether carpet can be salvaged and restored. If the water is from a flood or sewer backup, sanitation is the main concern. If the water damage is a result of rain or appliance water, the main concern is preventing mold and mildew.

Q: Is the hot water extraction method good for carpets? 
A: In order to maintain most carpets and carpet fibers, manufacturers require hot water extraction cleaning to be performed by a professional carpet cleaning company. Typically this system is performed with a self-contained cleaning unit that is mounted in a truck. The cleaner only brings into the home his cleaning tool and the hoses that connect the cleaning tool to the truck. The solution is applied to the carpet under pressure and at high temperatures which helps the carpets to dry fast. The chemistry that is used should leave no residue, so your carpet will not attract soil after cleaning. Properly used, this system should not penetrate through the carpet backing, preventing over-wetting of the carpet.

TIPS FOR MAINTAINING THE BEAUTY & EXTENDING THE LIFE OF YOUR CARPET

Entrance Mats:
Using entrance mats inside and outside of doorways, will reduce the amount of soil brought onto your carpet. As much as 75% of the dirt and grime in your carpet is tracked-in soil.

Vacuuming:
Nothing is more important for maintaining beautiful, long lasting carpet than vacuuming. Dry soil is abrasive and can actually damage carpet fibers, causing accelerated wear. In addition to creating a dingy, poor appearance, it will also diminish the effectiveness of your stain-resistant protective coating. A vacuum with a beater bar will give the best results.

Professional Cleaning:
Periodically, have your carpet and upholstery professionally cleaned by A #1 Steaming. Most carpet manufacturers recommend hot water extraction as the best method for cleaning carpet, and many require periodic hot water extraction cleaning as a warranty requirement. Do not use do-it-yourself wet shampooing or dry cleaning methods on carpets. They can leave a residue which actually attracts and holds dirt.

Clean up spills immediately:
The quicker you attend to a spill, the easier it is to remove. Always blot the spill. Use a clean, white absorbent cloth. Never rub or use a brush. Rubbing can actually make the stain worse and permanently alter the look of the carpet fiber or fabric.

If you have any questions or would like assistance, call A#1 Steaming toll free at 800-792-5333.