If you have carpet in your house, you’ll understand the frustration of trying to keep it in good condition.
Dirt, stains and marks from furniture can make your carpet look much older than it is, but did you know it can be easy to get your carpet back in new condition?
Provided your carpet isn’t too stained or damaged, you can get it looking pretty much brand new.
All you need to do is try these easy steps.
1. Move your furniture and clutter out of the way
It’s important to move all the furniture and clutter out of the room or at least out of the way when cleaning your carpet. This is particularly important if you want to clean underneath them or remove any marks in the carpet.
2. Inspect your carpet closely, cutting any loose threads
If you can get down on your hands and knees, you should for this step. Give your carpets a close inspection by crawling around the room on your hands and knees. Cut any loose threads with a pair of scissors, but don’t pull on them. Instead, lay the scissors on top of the carpet and cut the thread as low as you can so it’s even with the rest of your carpet.
3. Spray any tough stains
Try spraying a carpet stain removing product on your carpet. It’s important you follow the instructions on the bottle and leave it on your carpet for the amount of time recommended. When your satisfied you’ve left it on for long enough, blot it with a rag to soak up any remaining cleaner and the stain.
4. Use an ice cube or an iron to get the furniture marks out
If you’ve got marks on your carpet from your furniture, there are two ways you can get them. The first is by using an ice cube. Place the ice cube on the marked areas and allow it to melt. Next, grab some paper towel and gently blot the wet area until you can’t absorb any moisture. Then, run the edge of a spoon against the marked carpet to fluff it back up again. The other alternative is to use an iron. First, lay a wrung out wet hand towel on the marked area. Set your iron to the cotton setting and iron the towel for around a minute. Be sure to focus on the marked area. All you need to do is leave the towel on the carpet until it dries, remove it and then use your hand to fluff the area.
5. Vacuum any dirt or dust out of the carpet
Now is the time to break your trust vacuum and get stuck into your carpet. Make sure you suck up all the dust and dirt, paying particular attention to high-traffic areas, corners and where the carpet and walls meet. Be sure to use any attachments that will suck up any dust in hard to reach areas.
6. Shampoo your carpet thoroughly
If you don’t have a carpet shampooer, you can hire one from your local supermarket for not much at all. When shampooing your carpet, start at the area furthest from the doorway. Work slowly and firmly, going back and forth in straight lines. Work your way back toward the door to avoid walking on the damp carpet.
7. Spray or sprinkle some deodoriser on the carpet
Once your carpet is dry, sprinkle some carpet deodoriser or baking soda over the carpet. Make sure you follow the instructions on the packaging to leave it on for the time suggested.
8. Vacuum once more and move your furniture back into the room
Now, all you need to do is give your room one last thorough vacuum, to suck up all the carpet deodoriser and any leftover dirt and then move your furniture back into the room.