Cleaning Carpets: Surprising Statistics and facts

Most homeowners clean their carpets regularly

According to a survey by United Carpets & Beds, only 3% of people never have their carpets cleaned professionally. This suggests that the vast majority of homeowners do clean their carpets on a regular basis. However, the survey did not provide information on how often homeowners clean their carpets themselves or how often they hire professionals to do it.

To maintain the cleanliness of carpets, The Carpet and Rug Institute recommends vacuuming regularly, spot cleaning spills quickly, and having carpets professionally deep cleaned every 12 to 18 months. Angie’s List recommends vacuuming carpets at least once a week and having them professionally cleaned every two to three months. These recommendations suggest that homeowners should clean their carpets on a regular basis, both by themselves and with the help of professionals.

Only 3% of people never have their carpets cleaned professionally

The vast majority of homeowners clean their carpets regularly

The Carpet and Rug Institute recommends regular vacuuming, spot cleaning, and professional deep cleaning every 12 to 18 months

Angie’s List recommends regular vacuuming and professional cleaning every two to three months

Homeowners should clean their carpets regularly, both by themselves and with the help of professionals.

Dirt and Debris Accumulation in Carpets: A Yearly Concern

Carpets and rugs can accumulate pounds of dirt and debris every year if not cleaned regularly. The average U.S. home can accumulate dozens of pounds of dust inside per year. Shoes are like magnets for these contaminants, and if people are not careful about wiping their footwear before entering a room, they can track in dirt and debris. Here are some facts and tips to keep your carpets clean and healthy:

Dirt, soil, sand, dust, debris, and other detritus can accumulate in carpets and rugs over time.

Vacuuming carpets and rugs can remove up to 85% of dirt and soil from them.

High-traffic rooms with carpets and rugs should be vacuumed a few times a week to reduce the number of bugs and bacteria.

Using area rugs in high-traffic areas can also reduce the amount of dirt and soil that accumulates in carpets.

Dirty carpets can cause unsanitary and unsafe conditions, bad odors, and can even be a health hazard.

Over time, dust, dirt, grime, and ice melt can accumulate on carpets and get ground in and further broken down by foot traffic.

This can cause the carpet fibers to suffer, and they may need to be replaced sooner than expected.

Deep cleaning carpets can remove thousands of times more germs from homes than cleaning bathrooms.

Professional cleaners have a variety of techniques to deal with embedded carpet contaminants, which can help carpets last longer.

Most carpet warranties mandate professional cleaning every 12 to 18 months.

By following these tips and getting your carpets professionally cleaned regularly, you can ensure a healthy and clean environment for you and your family.

Effective Methods for Removing Pet Stains from Carpets

Pet stains on carpets can be a nuisance, but there are several effective methods for removing them. Here are some tips to help you get rid of pet stains:

Act quickly: Please act as quickly as possible when a pet has an accident to make removing the stain easier. Use paper towels and newspaper to pick up the mess or to soak it up quickly, and place the towels over the mess and step on them (while wearing shoes) to absorb the stain from the carpet.

Use a solution of hydrogen peroxide and liquid dish detergent: One common method is to mix a solution of 1/2 cup of hydrogen peroxide and 1 teaspoon of liquid dish detergent in a bowl, sprinkle baking soda on the soiled area, pour the liquid solution on the baking soda and the stain, and gently rub the area with a soft-bristled brush or cloth.

Apply vinegar and baking soda: Another method is to apply vinegar to the stain, sprinkle baking soda over it, wait for it to dry, and then vacuum it up. For those who prefer natural ingredients, vinegar and baking soda can be used to clean up pet urine stains.

Use a wet vac: Using a wet vac can also be very effective for removing pet stains. This machine forcefully flushes clean water into the carpet, deep cleaning it while vacuuming out the dirty water. Once the area is clean, apply a high-quality pet odor neutralizer.

Use hydrogen peroxide for old stains: For old pet urine stains, hydrogen peroxide is a highly effective pet stain remover and disinfectant. However, it can bleach a carpet, especially at higher concentrations, so it is recommended to use a specialized hydrogen peroxide formula or to trust a professional cleaner.

Professional Carpet Cleaning: How Often to Extend Lifespan

To extend the lifespan of carpets, it is recommended to have them professionally cleaned every 12 to 18 months. Regular cleaning is essential to keep the carpet in good condition and extend its lifespan. Here are some factors to consider when determining the frequency of professional carpet cleaning:

Material, usage, and location: If the carpet is in a high-traffic area or is exposed to pets or children, it may need to be cleaned more frequently.

Stains and odors: Professional carpet cleaning can help to remove stains and odors that can accumulate over time and cause damage to the carpet fibers.

Vacuuming: Vacuuming the carpet once or twice a week can also help to keep dust and dirt buildup to a minimum and retain the condition of the carpet for much longer.

The lifespan of a carpet usually ranges from 5 to 15 years, depending on the type of carpet, carpet cushion, carpet fibers, and wear and tear the carpet is exposed to. If the carpet is showing physical indicators such as tears, stains, or smells, it may be time to invest in new carpet. So, to keep your carpet in good condition and extend its lifespan, make sure to have it professionally cleaned every 12 to 18 months.

Professional Carpet Cleaning: Is it Worth the Investment?

The cost of professional carpet cleaning varies depending on factors such as the size of the cleaning area, the type of carpet, the cleaning method, and any pretreatments or stain removal. The average cost of professional carpet cleaning ranges from $90 to $350, with most homeowners paying around $175. The national average cost is $178, with a typical range of $122 to $235. Based on the industry’s average, the standard carpet cleaning cost is between $123 to $250, and most homeowners pay around $175. The cost per square foot for carpet cleaning ranges from $0.20 to $0.40, with the average price for dry carpet cleaning being $75 to $350.

Despite the cost, professional carpet cleaning is worth the investment. Regular professional cleaning can keep carpets looking newer for longer and remove allergens, bacteria, and other irritants like mold and mildew. Professional carpet cleaners have the equipment and experience to ensure greater cleanliness than a DIY cleaning project. Vacuuming often can help remove surface dust and debris, but a deep-down professional clean can remove more dirt and stains.

To summarize, the cost of professional carpet cleaning varies depending on several factors, but the average cost ranges from $90 to $350, with most homeowners paying around $175. While the cost has increased with inflation, it is still worth the investment as regular professional cleaning can keep carpets looking newer for longer and remove allergens, bacteria, and other irritants like mold and mildew. Professional carpet cleaners have the equipment and experience to ensure greater cleanliness than a DIY cleaning project.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Your Carpets at Home

Cleaning carpets is an essential task to maintain their appearance and prolong their lifespan. However, there are several common mistakes people make when attempting to clean their carpets themselves. Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid:

Over-wetting the carpet: This can cause mold growth, shrinkage, and tearing. Use a minimal amount of water and avoid soaking the carpet.

Scrubbing the carpet: This can damage the carpet fibers, causing them to fray and push dirt deeper into the fibers. Instead, blot the carpet gently.

Using the wrong carpet cleaner: Some carpet cleaners are only suitable for synthetic carpets, while others are designed for natural fibers. Make sure to use the appropriate cleaner for your carpet.

Over-shampooing the carpet: Using too much soap can make it harder to rinse the carpet properly, leaving behind residue that attracts dirt and makes the carpet look dirty again.

Using faulty carpet-cleaning equipment: Cheap or faulty equipment can lead to patchiness, poor results, and fiber damage. Invest in good quality equipment or seek professional help.

Not vacuuming often enough: Vacuuming regularly helps to keep the carpet clean and prolong its lifespan. Make sure to vacuum at least once a week.

Carpet fibers and their impact on cleaning

Different carpet fibers have varying effects on the cleaning process. Nylon is the most resilient, while wool requires special care. Plant fibers are harder to clean. Factors like construction, weight, and dyeing technique also affect cleanability. Polyester and Triexta clean well, but cannot restore appearance. Olefin also cleans well, but excess dye may come off. It’s crucial to use the right cleaning method and products for each type of carpet, as bleach can damage wool fibers.

Eco-Friendly Options for Cleaning Carpets

Cleaning carpets can be eco-friendly by using methods that use little water and detergents, and by using environmentally friendly pre-treatments, disinfectants, surfactants, and deodorizers. Here are some options:

Hot water extraction: This method uses little water and detergents to clean carpets.

Plant-based detergents: These use enzymes to break down stains and odors naturally and gently.

DIY alternatives: Baking soda, vinegar, carbonated water, cornstarch, or cornmeal can be used for cleaning carpets.

Consistent vacuuming: This is an eco-friendly way to keep carpets clean by removing dust, debris, and impurities on the surface.

Using eco-friendly carpet cleaning methods not only benefits the environment but also reduces the risk of triggering allergies, asthma, and skin irritation. Eco-friendly cleaners are also safer and healthier for the air quality in homes, as harsh chemicals from commercial carpet cleaners can disperse into the air and potentially trigger allergies.

There are many natural and organic carpet cleaning products on the market that are safe for families and the planet, such as Arm & Hammer baking soda, Puracy plant-based concentrate, and Better Life natural stain and odor eliminator. These products use the power of enzymes to clean up stains and odors naturally and effectively.

Health Risks Associated with Improperly Cleaned Carpets

Carpets can be a cozy addition to any home, but they can also pose several health risks if not properly cleaned. Here are some of the dangers that can lurk in dirty carpets:

Pollutants and allergens: Carpets can trap dust mites, pet dander, cockroach allergens, particle pollution, lead, mold spores, pesticides, dirt, and dust. These pollutants may become airborne during renovations, vacuuming, or even walking on the carpet.

Chemicals: Some new carpets, carpet pads, and adhesives contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which emit odors and chemicals that can harm health.

Pests and microbes: A filthy, poorly maintained carpet can be a breeding ground for debris, dirt, and pests. Carpets that are not properly cleaned can harbor dead skin cells, dust mites, insect feces, and disease-causing microbes and bacteria.

Skin diseases: Dirty carpets can cause athlete’s foot, a contagious fungal infection that can be acquired by walking over a dirty carpet. Fungi-infested carpet fibers can also breed in the breaks of human skin, causing chronic itching. A dirty carpet can also trigger skin asthma attacks and skin swelling, itch, and redness.

Respiratory illnesses: Dust and dirt embedded in the carpet can be inhaled, causing breathing problems. Exposure to molds and dust mites can also cause respiratory illnesses.

Allergies and asthma: Old carpets accumulate dust, dirt, allergens, and even mold over the years. These unsanitary irritants can aggravate allergies, trigger asthma attacks, and cause fungal infections.

To prevent these health risks, please clean carpets regularly and replace them when they get too old. Vacuuming regularly can help keep contaminants to a minimum, but it’s not enough to eliminate all the dangers that can lurk in dirty carpets. By taking care of your carpets, you can ensure a healthier and safer home environment for you and your family.