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Carpets can be expensive to purchase and install, so you'll want to take proper care of them to extend their life as long as possible. With some simple regular maintenance and prompt treatment when problems occur, you can add years to the lifespan of your carpets. Here are the top tips for keeping your carpets looking great.

Regular Vacuuming

Vacuum your carpets frequently - at least once or twice a week in high traffic areas. Vacuuming prevents dirt and grit from embedding deep in the carpet fibers where it's more difficult to remove. Use a vacuum cleaner with a rotating brush head that agitates the carpet to loosen and extract dirt. Change vacuum bags often so dirt isn't just recirculated.

Spot Clean Spills Quickly

Don't let spills sit for long on the carpet. Blot liquids immediately with a clean, dry white cloth. For sticky spills, use a dull knife or spoon to lift the goo, then blot. For mud or dirt, allow it to dry slightly first before vacuuming. For food or pet stains, spray with an enzymatic cleaner made for use on carpets, following directions. Blot the area with a towel and let it fully dry before vacuuming up any residue.

Professional Deep Cleaning

While you should vacuum carpets frequently yourself, once or twice a year it's smart to have them professionally deep cleaned. The hot water extraction method is preferred where high powered equipment is used to inject carpets with hot water and cleaning solution which is immediately extracted along with dirt. This reaches deep down to clean carpets thoroughly and prevent premature wear from embedded soils.

Rotate Area Rugs

To slow uneven wear patterns from developing, periodically rotate area carpet rugs in high traffic rooms so the traffic is dispersed to different areas over time. Flip them completely over as well to evenly distribute wear on both sides. Rugs placed in doorways and hallways should be flipped every 3-4 months.

Use Carpet Protectors

Use glass or plexiglass carpet protectors under the rolling wheels of chairs and furniture legs. This prevents indentations from forming on carpet fibers over time. The pressure in a small area from furniture legs can smash down fibers quickly. Replace plastic caps with felt pads which are gentler on carpets.

Control Sun Exposure

Protect carpets from excessive direct sunlight with window curtains and blinds in rooms that get a lot of sunlight. UV light rays can fade and weaken carpet fibers. Rearrange rugs and furniture periodically so the sunlight hits different areas instead of just one spot constantly. Keep an eye out for color changes indicating fading.

Regulate Humidity Levels

Keep household humidity moderate – between 30-50% - to prevent carpets from becoming a breeding ground for mold and bacteria which can damage fibers. Use dehumidifiers or humidifiers as needed to maintain recommended humidity based on seasons and your local environment.

Clean Up Spills Properly

It's vital to avoid using the wrong chemicals which can permanently stain or bleach carpets when trying to remove spills. Avoid using bleach, ammonia, vinegar, abrasive cleaners or soap which can leave sticky residue. Refer to carpet manufacturer instructions on what solutions are safe to use. Test cleaning agents first on a small, inconspicuous area before treating a large visible spot.

Act Quickly with Pet Accidents

When pets soil carpets, don't scold them or delay cleaning. This can reinforce the behavior. Blot urine quickly while avoiding rubbing it which forces it further into the carpet pad. Use an enzymatic pet odor neutralizer spray made for carpet use and let soak in for 30 minutes. Place absorbent towels over the area to draw out as much liquid as possible. Allow carpet to air dry before vacuuming up crystallized residue. Consider having pets checked at the vet for urinary or bowel issues if accidents are frequent.

Do Regular Carpet Maintenance

Inspect carpets periodically for problems and make fixes right away before small issues turn into big ones. Clip any snagged threads promptly. Use a carpet seam sealer on edges that are fraying or openings forming. Re-stretch loose wall-to-wall carpets that are buckling. Move furniture to evenly redistribute weight and traffic. Shampoo high traffic lanes and entrances a few times a year.

With some thoughtful care and prompt attention when carpets show wear, you can add years of life onto your carpets. They represent a significant investment that's worth protecting through simple regular maintenance. Following these carpet care guidelines will help keep them looking fresh and lasting far into the future.

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