Three Steps To Successful Maintenance
1. Vacuum. 2. Vacuum. 3. Vacuum.
This is the secret to success. A dry carpet will not be harmed by brushing action to the fibers. Therefore, we recommend a good quality, upright vacuum cleaner with a reel-type brush to move the tips of the carpet pile so the dirt can be removed with the air velocity created by the vacuum.
The amount of traffic is the main factor governing the frequency of vacuuming.
The basic rule is that dirt should not be allowed to settle into carpet. Walking on dirt and grit that has settled into the base of the fibers causes an abrasive action, which results in the appearance of traffic lanes and worn areas.
Vacuum traffic lanes every day. Use a back-and-forth motion in one direction, and then finish the carpet by going back-and-forth in the opposite direction. And remember, go slowly.
Change the disposable bag or empty the vacuum often. Filled pickup bags result in less suction and less dirt removal. Be sure to check the belt that drives the brushes or beater bar. A broken or worn belt reduces efficiency. And don't be upset by the amount of fiber you pick up from a new carpet. These are ends which are not removed in the manufacturing process and often appear for many months.
Carpet sweepers and electric brooms are useful for picking up crumbs and surface soil, but it's important to know that they will not clean deep.
Never use a broom of any kind on a carpet. At best, the dirt is just moved around, and a dust problem is created.
One of the best methods of preventing the tracking of soil throughout your home is to provide removable mats at each entrance to your home - both inside and outside. These removable mats can be laundered, hosed, beaten or vacuumed as soil accumulates to a noticeable degree.
Note: I personally apply Arm & Hammer odor eliminator lightly with a salt shaker. (It's okay to leave in carpet until next vacuuming - also leaves vacuum smelling fresh.)
What To Do About Spills And Stains
First and foremost, act quickly. Pick up any solids that are easily removable. In the case of muddy footprints, wait until they are thoroughly dry; then vacuum.
Types of Stains
Basically two types of stains appear on carpets:
Water-soluble - include most food, beverage, urine and vomit.
Solvent-soluble - include oil, grease, tar, crayon, lipstick and butter.
Treatment For Stain Removal
Detergent solution for removing water-soluble stains - Mix 1 teaspoon of mild detergent into 1 pint of lukewarm water. Do NOT use automatic dishwasher detergent or any other solution containing bleach. Sponge the detergent mixture onto the water-soluble stain, and work the solution from the outer edges toward the center of the stain. A lather will form. Gently sponge off this lather with clear, cold water until all visible signs of the suds have disappeared. Be sure to rinse out all spotters.
Products to remove solvent-soluble stains - Isopropylene alcohol, or nail polish remover are available products. Apply the solvent to the stain by gently blotting with a cloth. Never pour a liquid directly from the container onto the carpet. After the solvent-soluble stain has been removed, follow with the detergent solution procedure.
Neutralizing rinse - Mix 1 tablespoon of white vinegar into 1 pint of cold water. Sponge this mixture lightly onto the affected area. The vinegar will neutralize any detergent residue that may remain in the carpet or that may wick to the surface during the drying process. Blot as much of the moisture out of the area as possible by using absorbent white cloth toweling or paper towels. Never use a newspaper or anything with print.
Most Common Antidotes
Hydrogen Peroxide - A chemical that gains electrons and causes the oxidation of another substance, like Oxyclean. Peroxide is great for removing organic and natural stains such as tea, coffee, mustard, wine, vomit, and natural juices. After normal spot cleaning, instead of neutralizing rinse, use Hydrogen Peroxide. Spray on liberally and walk away.
Deodorizing - Vinegar reduces the ammonia in dog urine. Mix 1/4 cup vinegar and 1 cup water, apply liberally to affected area, absorb, allow to dry completely. If odor persists after 72 hours, repeat. If stained, apply peroxide and walk away. Oxidation can take one to eight hours to complete. Be patient!
Joel's Spotter - Just ask when we're at your home, and we will give you a bottle free. It has an emulsifying action which is effective on oil as well as water-based spots. It is gentle, safe, and if used properly, will not damage fabrics or leave ring marks. Joel's Spotter can effectively remove many stubborn stains that other professional cleaners cannot remove. Does not need rinsing.
*Apply directly to stained area. Blot, massage, and absorb using a clean dry cotton cloth - the liquid containing the stain transfers to the cloth.
A helpful tip: Sometimes added pressure from standing on the cloth helps the transfer process.
How To Assure Quick Drying
After The Carpet Is Cleaned
1. Be sure the room is ventilated. Air must move over the surface of the carpet to assure quick drying.
2. The best drying temperature is 72 to 78 degrees F.
3. Lowering the humidity by means of a dehumidifier or air conditioner will aid the drying.
4. A portable fan, furnace blower or air conditioner fan will speed drying time.
If you should have any questions,
please contact us and we will be happy to help.