Cleaning a dirty rug at home can be a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. With the right tools and techniques, you can easily refresh and disinfect your carpets without having to rent a steam cleaner. To start, vacuum the carpet thoroughly on both sides to make sure that all dirt is gone. If you have pets, use a brush to remove any loose hair.
To disinfect the fibers of your carpet, mix one part white vinegar with three parts water in a small bowl or bucket. Dip the bristles of a scrub brush in the solution and rub them into the carpet. Massage the fibers thoroughly without completely saturating the carpet, then use a cloth to remove excess moisture. For room-sized natural fiber carpets, leave it in place and protect the floor beneath it with a protective plastic cloth and towel.
Rub stains with a soft brush dipped in soap and water, then place a towel over the wet area. Dry the cleaned area as dry as possible using a portable fan or hair dryer. Move small rugs to a protected table or counter to clean them. Vacuuming is essential for regular or emergency cleaning. The Bissell SpotClean is designed for vacuuming liquids, so suck up all that loose dirt first.
To clean stains or discolorations from a room-sized natural fiber carpet, leave it in place and protect the floor beneath it with a protective plastic cloth and towel. Rub stains with a soft brush dipped in soap and water, then place a towel over the wet area. For most modern carpets, cleaning can be done as a DIY project once a year and saves you the cost of professional cleaning. Use an optional stain treatment on any strong stain you think might need it. A shampoo designed specifically for carpets and, better yet, the material from which the carpet is made, will give you the best results for regular or emergency cleaning. A very mild solution of dish detergent and warm (not hot) water is also an effective option for cleaning stains before they dry.
For any liquid cleaning, always perform a spot test first and specialized cleaning companies must remove persistent stains. Cleaning deep hair or shaggy carpets can be done with damp water or dry shampoo. Pay close attention to the manufacturer's recommendations for deep cleaning and use a carpet shampoo or carpet cleaning machine. Avoid using too much soap, especially on wool rugs. Water weakens fibers so work quickly and dry them well to extend their life. Now that you know how to clean your carpets at home, you can keep them looking fresh and new for years to come!.
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