When it comes to carpet cleaning, there's no shortage of information available on how to get the job done. Unfortunately, there's also a lot of misinformation out there, and it can lead to costly errors. Beware of these four common misconceptions when deciding if it's time to hire a company to do the work, and you'll not only save money, you could save your carpet.
1. You only need to clean your carpet every few years, or even once a year.
This common misconception can lead to a dirty home, as well as unnecessary wear and tear on your floor coverings. Dirt, by nature, is abrasive. Think of its coarse texture and what it feels like on your skin. To your carpet, it's like sandpaper, and by repeatedly walking on a dirty floor and grinding the dirt into the fibers, you're actually causing it to wear faster. Vacuuming can help and should be done frequently, but consider a deep, thorough cleaning any time your floor covering begins to show dirt.
2. You only need a deep cleaning when you can see dirt.
Unfortunately, a dirty rug isn't the only way to know it's time for a deep cleaning. Invisible materials get tracked into your home daily, like pollen, bacteria, fungus, and other chemicals. These can cause a flare in allergies, breathing problems, and even emphysema over time if they're not professionally removed. Cigarette smoke is another substance that needs to be addressed, and should be regularly removed to keep your home smelling fresh and to reduce exposure to the harmful chemicals it contains.
3. You can wash all carpet the same way.
The material, texture, padding and several other factors will determine the best method of sanitizing your rugs and floor coverings. There are dry methods as well as hot water methods to consider. Equally as important to the washing process is the drying process, and making sure you're using a high-quality vacuum. Professional companies can offer advice and assistance to ensure you're using the right method for the materials found in your home.
4. Any carpet cleaning company can help.
Just because a company has the latest equipment and seems to know their stuff, there are a few more things to ask before you trust them with the floor coverings in your home. The most important is to ask if they are certified. You want to work with companies that have received a Cleaning and Restoration Certification from the Institute of Inspection. This certification is only awarded to those who have completed a formal, written examination, akin to a degree in carpet cleaning. Also, ask about the company's satisfaction policy. Most reputable companies will offer a satisfaction guarantee, thereby guaranteeing both their work and their professionalism and helping you to feel at ease.
Keeping your home clean and pollutant free is important, not only to your health and the health of your family, but to the longevity of your floor coverings. Regular washing and disinfecting is the best way to accomplish this, and by avoiding these four common mistakes you can be assured you are making the right choice for the floors in your home.Ace Abbey
