Most new carpet owners, or even older ones, don't know the proper procedure for carpet cleaning. Many people don't know how often to clean, or what method to use. There are so many different options, that it can be overwhelming. But, armed with the right information, cleaning them can become second nature.

There are many different kinds of carpets, and they can all be treated differently. Some different kinds of carpets are: Berber, antique rugs, shag and wool carpets. Each of these kinds of carpets will benefit from different treatments and carpet cleaning methods.

An area rug will not need the same carpet treatment as a Berber one. Harsh chemicals should not be used for antique rugs, but sometimes are the only way to get out tough stains from a regular carpet. Some people are not aware of how often a carpet should be cleaned. This should be done every one to two years for high traffic areas.

Some carpeting retailers will include this condition in the warranty. The carpet must be cleaned every one or two years or the warranty becomes void. For lesser used carpets, they can be cleaned less often, but it is still probably not a good idea.

Dust and allergens get trapped in the carpet and then drift into the air, causing breathing problems for many people. For this reason, it is a good idea to keep carpets clean.

There are at least four main ways to clean them. The first method is through steam cleaning. This is when hot water is applied to the carpet, and then steamed out immediately. Usually a detergent is used in this method as well.

The second method used to clean carpets is the shampoo method. This method acts like a foaming shampoo wash for the carpet. Cleaning solution is whipped into a foamy substance that picks up the dirt.

Then as the foaming dries, vacuuming picks up the final bits of dirt sticking to the leftover foam. The third method for carpet treatment is the professional in-house cleaning. This is when your carpet is delivered to the cleaners to be cleaned in a special way by the cleaning company.

This method is usually used for an area rug or antique rugs. The last method for cleaning carpets is the absorbent dry compound process.

This method sprinkles a dry chemical powder over the area, and it is then worked into the carpet with a special machine. The dirt attaches itself to the powder, and subsequent vacuuming sucks the powder and dirt right up. This is the only method of cleaning that does not use water.

So now you know how often to clean your carpets, and what methods are available to use. Most of these carpet cleaning methods are only used by professionals, but shampooing and steam cleaning can usually be done by you.

It is always good to know your options, and so hopefully you feel better about the process of cleaning your carpets. Good luck with your floor covering maintenance!

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