Tips & Tricks

• Carpets need to be vacuumed once a week. Frequent vacuuming lengthens the life of your carpet because this prevents a buildup of grainy particles that can cut carpet fibers.

• Take your time when you vacuum a carpet. Go over each section of carpeting several times to allow the suction to remove all the ground-in dust and dirt. Vacuum the most exposed areas with a crisscross pattern of overlapping strokes.

• Adding baking soda to the bag of your vacuum is a great way to fight the odors.

• Clean spills immediately. Carefully blot the entire area before applying any cleaning solution. Remove as much of the spill as possible, and do not rub the spill, as it might make the problem worse. Make sure to test your cleaning solution to make sure it does not damage the carpet.

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Some common household stains can be a pain if not treated immediately. Here are some tips on how to treat these stains.

• Acid Spills: Drain cleaner or vinegar demands quick action. Dilute them immediately with baking soda and water, or with club soda. Then apply a solution of ammonia (1 part) and water (10 parts). Rinse with cold water, let dry, and vacuum gently.

• Alcoholic Beverage: Quickly dilute the spot with cold water. Carefully blot the excess liquid. Mix the following solutions:

  • ​1 tsp. of mild detergent
    1 tsp. of white vinegar
    1-quart warm water 

  • Apply the solution to the spot, and let the carpet dry. Vacuum gently.

• Chewing Gum: Harden the gum by pressing an ice cube against the gum. Once hardened, the gum can be pulled off. Do not try to take out the gum while it is still soft on, you’ll be in a sticky mess.

• Chocolate Stains: Immediately scrape chocolate stains from the carpet by mixing the following solutions:

  • 1 tsp. of mild detergent
    1 tsp. of white vinegar
    1-quart warm water ​

  • Apply the solution to the spot, and let the carpet dry. Vacuum gently.