Prepping Carpets for Summer

Deep cleaning is recommended at least twice a year, ideally before summer and winter. This removes the dirt and allergens accumulated over the previous season, ensuring your carpets are fresh for the months ahead.

While DIY methods can be effective for surface cleaning, professional deep cleaning reaches deeper layers of your carpet, removing embedded dirt and bacteria that home cleaners often miss.

Before a deep clean, vacuum the carpets thoroughly to remove surface dust and debris. Move furniture if possible to allow for a more comprehensive clean, and ensure the room is well-ventilated.

It’s best to wait 4-6 hours before walking on freshly cleaned carpets to allow them to dry properly. You can speed up drying by opening windows or using fans.

Keep windows and doors closed on high-pollen days, use doormats to prevent tracking pollen indoors, and clean air filters in your home’s HVAC system regularly.

Yes, but using a vacuum with a HEPA filter is crucial, as it traps smaller particles like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander that may otherwise be missed.

Pollen counts tend to be lower in the early morning or late evening, so these are the best times to air out your home without introducing too many allergens.

If your allergy symptoms flare up when you’re at home or immediately after vacuuming, it could be a sign that your carpet is trapping allergens that need to be professionally cleaned.

Excess moisture can get trapped in carpet fibres, leading to mould, mildew, and bacteria growth, which can damage the carpet and cause health problems.

Use air conditioners or dehumidifiers, especially in areas with poor ventilation like basements. Fans and open windows can also help circulate air and reduce moisture build-up.

Dry the area as quickly as possible using fans or a dehumidifier. If the carpet remains damp for too long, consider professional cleaning to prevent mould growth.

Keep humidity levels below 60% indoors, address any water spills immediately, and ensure rooms are well-ventilated to reduce the risk of moisture being trapped under your carpet.

It’s a good idea to rotate your furniture every 3 to 6 months. This prevents one area of your carpet from bearing the brunt of foot traffic and furniture weight, leading to uneven wear.

Common signs include flattened fibres, discolouration in high-traffic areas, and areas where the carpet feels harder or rougher due to constant pressure.

Use furniture coasters or pads under the legs of heavy items to distribute the weight more evenly and prevent permanent dents in the carpet fibres.

You can revive compressed carpet fibres by lightly dampening the area and using a spoon or your fingers to fluff the fibres back up. Placing an ice cube on the dent and letting it melt can also help.

Place doormats at every entry point, and encourage family members and guests to remove their shoes before walking on the carpet. Regularly clean the doormats to prevent dirt build-up.

Use a vacuum with strong suction to lift sand from the carpet. Sand can be abrasive and difficult to remove, so frequent vacuuming during summer months is important.

Yes, outdoor activities often bring in dirt, sand, and moisture, all of which can damage carpet fibres over time. Wipe your shoes or take them off when entering your home to protect your carpets.

Low-pile or loop carpets are easier to maintain in homes near beaches or sandy areas because they don’t trap sand and dirt as easily as thicker, high-pile carpets.

Sprinkling baking soda on the carpet and letting it sit for 15-30 minutes before vacuuming can help absorb odours. Adding essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus can provide a fresh, natural scent.

If you have pets or notice musty smells, it’s a good idea to deodorise once a month. For general upkeep, deodorising once every few months should suffice.

Essential oils are generally safe in small amounts, but it’s important to test a small, hidden area of your carpet first to ensure there’s no discolouration or damage.

Increased humidity, moisture from spills or pet accidents, and the build-up of dirt can all contribute to musty smells in carpets. Regular cleaning and good ventilation help prevent this.

With increased foot traffic during the summer, aim to vacuum high-traffic areas at least twice a week to prevent dirt and allergens from settling deep into the fibres.

For most spills, blot the area with a clean cloth and use cool water to rinse the spot. Avoid scrubbing, as this can push the liquid deeper into the fibres, making the stain harder to remove.

To prevent sun fading, close curtains or blinds during the brightest parts of the day, especially in rooms where sunlight hits directly onto the carpet.

If you notice persistent stains, unpleasant odours, or if your carpet feels dull even after regular vacuuming, it may be time to schedule a professional cleaning to restore its freshness.