The vast majority of the American population has carpeting somewhere in their homes. Despite the widespread use of carpet as a viable flooring material, you would be shocked and amazed to know how few people really know how to properly care for their carpet. The danger of this is the fact that unclean carpets are not only unsightly in appearance; they also breed germs, cultivate bacteria, and are a health hazard. Perhaps this article can help you properly care for your carpet so that it can be as clean as you believe it to be.

What Type of Carpet Do You Have?

The initial step to decipher how best to clean your carpet is to find out what type it actually is. Is the carpet made of wool, plant fibers, silk or synthetics? Each one is cleaned differently using different detergents and products. An example of this is that wool can never be cleaned with any heated products or machines, and no bleach can ever be applied. You need to be aware of this if your carpet is wool, otherwise you may cause irreparable damage when trying to clean it.

Cleaning Materials

Next, you must decide which cleaning product has the best capabilities for your type of carpet and carpet cleaning needs. You aren't just trying to rinse it with water then dry it again, you need a product that will break down dirt and dust, draw out deep down build up, and kill germs and bacteria, all while maintaining the original beauty of the pile.

Cleaning With Hot Water

The hot water extraction method is a prime example of a method that is highly effective for most carpet cleaning needs. Although for reasons mentioned above this is not a recommended method for the cleaning of wool carpets it is a viable alternative for the cleaning of other carpet materials. In this method, which is also referred to as steam cleaning, heat is used in order to suspend dirt particles that have become embedded in the carpet. Then a cleaning agent is injected into the pile for the purpose of removing those particles. Heat and fans are used to quickly and effectively dry the carpet after this method is applied (be sure to check with your service to make sure this is included or find the cost of adding it as it is much favorable to waiting around for the carpet to dry).

Dry Cleaning Your Carpet

Alternatively, there is also the carpet cleaning method where dry extraction is used. This is excellent for wool carpets, and is similar to having your clothes dry cleaned. Combinations of chemicals are used to do the same as the wet methods, and a strong vacuum cleans up particles. The products used are usually powder or foam, with no moisture left behind.