Carpet Care Guide

New carpets bring a sense of freshness and elegance to any space. Proper care ensures they stay beautiful and last longer. This guide provides essential tips for maintaining and cleaning your new carpet effectively.

How to Clean Carpet

It’s no surprise that we frequently get asked about the best methods for cleaning carpet flooring. While smooth flooring is generally easier to maintain, modern carpets come with advanced yarn technology that significantly enhances stain resistance. In fact, some carpets are guaranteed to be stain-free for life! For instance, carpets made from polypropylene are entirely bleach-cleanable, providing peace of mind. Stain resistance is just one of the many advantages of wool carpets as well.

When dealing with carpet stains, quick action is crucial. Here’s a step-by-step guide to effective stain removal:

  1. Remove Solids: Gently scoop up any solid debris, starting from the outer edges and moving towards the centre to prevent spreading.

  2. Blot Liquids: Use a white cloth or towel to blot any liquid spills.

  3. Apply Cleaner: Dampen a white cloth with carpet cleaner and blot the stain. Avoid scrubbing and never apply the cleaner directly to the carpet.

    • Pro Tip: Test the carpet cleaner on a hidden area before use to ensure it won’t cause discoloration.

  4. Rinse with Water: Blot with clean water to remove any cleaner residue until it is fully gone.

  5. Dry the Area: Use a clean white cloth or towel to dry the area thoroughly.

  6. Vacuum: Once dry, vacuum the area to restore the carpet's texture.

Regular maintenance is essential for keeping a new carpet in top condition. Frequent vacuuming is particularly important. The frequency of vacuuming depends on the room’s usage, but as a general guideline, you should vacuum at least once a week. For softer carpets, a minimum of twice a week is recommended. Even in rarely used rooms, dust can accumulate. For the softest and fluffiest carpets, vacuuming at least twice a week is essential to maintain their appearance.

Cleaning Specific Stains

  • Blood

    Blot with cold water and dish soap solution. Avoid using hot water.

  • Tea & Coffee

    Blot with a paper towel, dilute with water, and apply a vinegar solution if needed.

  • Chocolate

    Scrape off solids, blot with cold water, and clean with a dish soap solution.

  • Wine

    Blot with a white cloth, dilute with cold water, and use a baking soda paste or vinegar solution.

  • Foundation & Lipstick

    Blot with water and dish soap solution, then gently rub if necessary.

  • Nail Polish & Hair Dye

    Use cold water, followed by vinegar or acetone. Blot until the stain is gone.

  • Wax

    Freeze with an ice bag, scrape off, and use a warm iron with a cloth to absorb the wax.

  • Crayon

    Apply white spirit, blot, and repeat with a spot remover if needed.

  • Mud

    Allow to dry, vacuum thoroughly, and blot with a carpet shampoo.

  • Paint

    Blot up excess paint and gently dab with rubbing alcohol or paint remover, then rinse and dry thoroughly.

Do’s & Don’ts

  • Rub stains

  • ✔️

    Vacuum regularly

  • Pull loose tufts

  • ✔️

    Use furniture cups

  • Expose to direct sunlight excessively

  • ✔️

    Keep pet’s nails trimmed

  • Over-wet the carpet when cleaning

  • ✔️

    Rotate furniture regularly

  • Use bleach on non-polypropylene carpets

  • ✔️

    Place doormats and rugs by doors

Further Helpful Links

✺ Frequently asked questions ✺

  • Regular vacuuming is essential to maintain the cleanliness of your carpet. Aim to vacuum at least once a week, or more frequently in high-traffic areas.

  • It's crucial to check the manufacturer's recommendations before using any carpet cleaner. Different carpet materials may require specific cleaning products to avoid damage.

  • Act quickly to blot up spills with a clean cloth. Avoid scrubbing, which can spread the stain. Use a carpet stain remover according to the product instructions.

  • To tackle pet odours, use a specialised pet odour neutraliser. Regular cleaning and airing out the room can also help.

  • Professional carpet cleaning is recommended every 12-18 months to deep clean and maintain the longevity of your carpet. They have the equipment and expertise to remove deep-seated dirt and stains.

  • Use furniture coasters or pads under the legs of heavy furniture to distribute weight and prevent indentations in the carpet fibers.

  • Drying times can vary depending on the cleaning method used and the carpet's thickness. Proper ventilation and airflow can help speed up the drying process.

  • Direct sunlight can cause carpets to fade over time. Use blinds or curtains to block UV rays, especially in rooms with large windows.