A beautiful carpet might look great and feel warm underfoot. However, it can easily become damaged and worn without proper maintenance and care. Not to mention all the harmful and invisible bacteria or dirt which hide in the fibers. The most effective way to ensure its look and eliminate these damaging elements is to clean the carpet on a regular basis. Do not worry, this task can be simple and affordable if you follow the cheapest way to clean carpet in this post.
1. Vacuum the Carpet
Step 1:
Before vacuuming the carpet, pick up any papers, toys, or other items that might obstruct the way of your vacuum cleaner. Make sure to check for small things like coins because they would damage the machine
Step 2:
Clean hard-to-reach areas with a nozzle attachment. You should start with the baseboards and edges of the carpet because these areas usually collect more dust.
Step 3:
Vacuum both vertically and horizontally. Firstly, you should vacuum back and forth, then repeat the step from right to left. This will ensure that all parts of the carpet have been reached.
Basically, vacuuming can be especially helpful when you have pets in the family because it might remove hair and dander. It is recommended to perform this task once per week to ensure your carpet is free of these elements.
2. Spot Clean the Carpet
Spot cleaning is used for cleaning recent spills on a small area of your carpet.
Step 1:
Choose a white cloth without patterns to make sure it doesn’t leave any color to the carpet’s surface. Do not use brushes or bristles because these tools can damage the fabrics and leave a frayed carpet.
Step 2:
Select the right carpet cleaner which is suitable for the right type of carpet and stains. For example, hydrogen peroxide is great for blood stains, while pet urine should be treated with enzyme-based cleaners.
Step 3:
Apply the cleaner to your cloth and gently blot the affected area. Avoid using too much product, or it will damage the surface. Also, do not scrub or press hard because it can drive the stains deeper into the fabrics.
Step 4:
Once the stains have been removed, use water and a clean cloth to rinse the carpet. Make sure to blot the area and soak up all remaining soap. Allow the cleaning area to dry completely before placing all the items back.
3. Shampoo the Carpet
Step 1:
Before shampooing, remove all items in the space. After that, vacuum the surface thoroughly to remove any grime and rust.
Step 2:
Fill the container on the cleaning machine with detergent and water. Avoid adding too much soap because it might damage both your carpet and the machine. Many professionals often advise adding slightly less soap than the recommended amount.
Step 3:
Run the cleaning machine around the carpet’s surface, starting from the corners. It is advisable to move the shampooer both in vertical and horizontal directions to ensure it reaches every area of the carpet.
Step 4:
Add a mix of water and vinegar into the machine and repeat the above steps. This will help remove the remaining soap on your carpet.
Step 5:
Open all windows and doors to allow for air circulation. This will speed up the drying process of the carpet to prevent mold and mildew from growing.
What is the cheapest way to clean carpet? The above methods are the best options to keep your carpet looking and feeling fresh. This in addition to regular cleanings will prevent them from being needing to be replaced sooner.