Deep cleaning your carpets once a year or so can nit only help your carpet last longer but it can also look and smell better, and a good carpet cleaning method is recommended by all carpet manufacturers. Many people think it is worth the cost to hire a professional, but some people prefer to do things themselves to save the cost and also for the satisfaction of saying, "I did it myself." Sometimes making the decision to "go for it" is the most difficult part of any duty, but if you are one of those people who take pride in accomplishing a worthwhile task yourself while simultaneously saving a dollar or two, you can take on the challenge of carpet cleaning yourself. If you make up your mind to do it and do it right, carpet cleaning is most likely one of those necessary chores that you can do yourself. You just need to be willing to take the big leap and prepare yourself for the task at hand. Once you decide that you do indeed want to feel a sense of accomplishment and take control of the carpet-cleaning chore, you should get yourself ready for the task.
The first thing you should do to begin your do-it-yourself adventure into the world of carpet cleaning is move all the furniture out of the room. Then, using your regular vacuum, give the carpet the best vacuuming you have ever given it. Removing as much loose dirt as possible will make the deep carpet cleaning process easier, quicker, and more effective.
Then, go to the store to rent the carpet cleaning equipment and supplies. There are carpet cleaning machines you can purchase, but most of them are not quite strong enough to really do the job as well as the commercial variety that are available to rent. Many supermarkets and home centers have the carpet cleaning machines and supplies you will need. Whether you decide to rent or buy, be sure that you choose the best machine for your carpet and make sure to get a machine that has the most powerful suction capability available. Strong suction is vital to getting the cleaning agents, dirt, and water out of the carpet so the carpet can dry in a reasonable amount of time.
If you do not know which type of solvent to use, check with your carpet manufacturer, the retailer who rents or sells the equipment, or another reliable source to make sure you are not going to ruin your carpet by using the wrong materials. Most carpet manufacturers unilaterally recommend a cleaning agent with a pH level lower than 10. Most professionals also recommend avoiding cleaners that contain bleach or "color enhancers," as they may change the color of your carpeting. Finally, most professionals agree that using silicone-based cleaners offer no real, long-term benefit and is not worth the additional cost, and some even believe the silicone may actually harm your carpet in the long run. Many people have carpet made from synthetic fibers, but some have carpets made of natural fibers like wool or cotton. If you happen to have natural-fiber carpeting, you will need to be sure to get a cleaner designed specifically for those natural materials.
Some carpeting is treated at the factory to be resistant to stains, which can be a wonderful way to avoid having a big mess when you drop your glass of red wine or your toddler throws her spaghetti plate onto the floor. However, if you have a treated carpet, you need specially formulated carpet cleaning solvents. You can find these in the local stores and supermarkets, but if you want to make sure you don't invalidate the manufacturer's stain resistance warranty coverage, you would be well advised to hire a professional carpet cleaning company to do the work.
Once you have removed the furniture, vacuumed the carpet, and gotten all the supplies you need, it is time to actually use the machine to to meet your carpet cleaning needs. It can be a time-consuming chore, but you can certainly do it yourself if you follow the recommendations set forth in this article and by your carpet manufacturer. The last step in the cleaning process may be the last, but it is the most important process. That is, make sure you dry the carpet as quickly as you can. Turn on your air conditioner, use fans, and plug in the dehumidifiers so the moisture does not sit in the carpet too long and damage the backing, padding, or allow mildew or mold to set in.
With careful attention to details and a strong back, you can clean your carpets yourself, but be sure to make wise decisions and go with the recommendations of your carpet manufacturer. Happy carpet cleaning!
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