Maintenance Guide

There is only one secret to the successful maintenance of your carpet.

Vacuuming.

Approximately 90% of all carpet soil is dry particulate, which can very easily be removed simply by regular vacuuming. The vacuum’s brushing action does no harm to the fibers in a dry carpet. That’s why our recommendation is to use a high-quality, upright vacuum cleaner that includes a reel-type brush. As you vacuum, this brush gently moves the tips of the carpet pile so that any dirt embedded in the fibers can be removed with the suction created by the machine.

The frequency of vacuuming should be determined by the amount of foot traffic the carpet receives, as well as its proximity to outside doors and any other dirty access points.

Never allow dirt to settle deeply into your carpet. Simply walking on dirt and grit that has worked its way into the base of the fibers can create an abrasive effect. This is what causes worn areas in the carpet to appear in the lanes of frequent traffic.

Therefore, traffic lanes should be vacuumed every day. It is most effective to go back and forth in a single direction, and to then finish by going back and forth in the opposite direction. Always go slowly for maximum dirt removal.

To help prevent tracking dirt throughout your home, place sturdy, removable mats at each entrance, both inside the door and outside. These removable mats can then be easily machine washed, hosed, beaten or vacuumed as dirt accumulates.

Full vacuum bags significantly reduce suction and dirt removal of your vacuum, so be sure to replace the disposable bags or empty the vacuum frequently. Periodically check the belt that controls the brush or beater bar. If the belt is broken or worn, it can reduce your vacuum’s effectiveness as well.

Keep in mind that it is normal for new carpets to shed excess fibers for many months. These fibers are simply ends that are not removed by the manufacturer.

Carpet sweepers and electric brooms can be useful for quick pick-ups. However, they only removed surface soil. For deep cleaning, regular vacuuming is still required.

An ordinary broom of any kind should never be used on the carpet. It may move dirt around, but it will not remove it.

Tips after Professional Cleaning

To help ensure a quick drying after your carpet is cleaned:

• Make sure the entire room is well-ventilated. The more air that is moving over the carpet, the faster it will dry.
• Set the temperature of the room to 72 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit.
• The use of an air conditioner can also help by reducing the overall humidity in the room.
• A fan of any kind, or a furnace blower, can also speed drying time.

Things to Avoid:

• Never remove the protective blocks or tabs placed beneath the furniture legs before your carpet is completely dry.
• Do not allow other fabrics -- such as curtains or bed linens, to come in contact with your carpet until it is completely dry.
• Do not close off your room until the carpet is completely dry.
• Avoid all traffic on a damp carpet. Remove your shoes -- or make sure they are clean -- if it is absolutely necessary to walk on the carpet before it dries. Placing paper or plastic on it to allow for traffic will impede drying and should not be used unless it’s unavoidable.

After your Carpet is Thoroughly Dry:

• Resume your normal routine of vacuuming daily or at least weekly.
• Always sponge up any spills immediately