How to Lift your Carpet Pile

Carpet remains one of the most favored flooring options for homes in the UK, especially in areas where we seek coziness, such as bedrooms and living rooms. Despite its durability and vibrant colors, over time, heavy furniture and high traffic can cause carpet pile to flatten.

If your carpet is starting to look a bit flat and you're not sure how to revive it, this guide is perfect for you. We'll walk you through various methods to lift your carpet pile and make it look new again. We'll also share some preventative tips to reduce the frequency of pile lifting.

What is a Carpet Pile?

To start with the basics, the pile of your carpet consists of the loops that make up its surface. These loops can influence the look, feel, and thickness of your carpet and come in various styles, including loop pile, woven, and Saxony or twist carpets. Each type is crafted uniquely to provide a different appearance and texture.

Different piles have varying densities and resistance levels, meaning some are more durable than others and don’t require frequent lifting. For instance, loop pile carpets are particularly dense and suitable for busy areas because they rebound easily, while velvet carpets have a sheared surface pile that can show shading from footsteps or vacuuming. Velvet carpets are luxurious but best suited for quieter rooms.

Regardless of how dense the carpet pile is, it will eventually begin to flatten. And we all prefer fluffy, springy carpets in our homes! So, there's no better time than now to learn how to lift the pile and rejuvenate your carpet.

How to Lift the Pile on Your Carpet

Here are some basic methods to lift your carpet pile:

  • Vacuum your carpet: Regular vacuuming helps lift the fibers and remove dirt.

  • Fluff the pile with your fingers or a brush: Gently brush the carpet to encourage the fibers to stand up.

  • Use a warm iron covered with a damp cloth on flat patches: Be very careful with this method to avoid burning the carpet fibers.

  • Melt ice cubes into your carpet pile and brush the fibers when dry: This method can help lift flattened areas.

Furniture Marks

  1. Vacuum: Start by vacuuming to remove debris and fluff up the carpet fibers.

  2. Use ice cubes: Place ice cubes in the indentations left by furniture and let them melt completely. Once dry, brush the carpet fibers with your fingers or a stiff brush.

  3. Vacuum again: After the carpet dries, vacuum once more to further lift the fibers.

Entire Carpets

  1. Sprinkle baking soda: Spread a layer of baking soda over the carpet and use a stiff brush to work it into the fibers.

  2. Leave overnight: Allow the baking soda to sit overnight to absorb odors and dirt.

  3. Spray with water and vinegar: Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and lightly mist the carpet. Don’t worry about the smell; it will dissipate.

Busy Areas

  1. Vacuum: Begin by vacuuming the flattened area to lift the fibers.

  2. Use an iron and a damp cloth: Wet a thick cloth, wring it out, and place it over the flattened area. Iron on medium heat for about 60 seconds, moving the iron around without letting it touch the carpet directly.

  3. Fluff the fibers: Use your fingers or a brush to fluff up the fibers.

How to Prevent Flattening of Carpet Pile

To reduce the need for lifting your carpet pile, consider these tips:

  • Move your furniture regularly: Shifting heavy objects occasionally helps the carpet fibres recover.

  • Use rugs or furniture pads: Placing a barrier between your carpet and furniture can relieve pressure on the fibers.

  • Invest in high-quality carpets: Higher quality carpets are more resistant to flattening. For the best options, consider purchasing your carpets from us.