If you are a homeowner with carpeting throughout your home, you most likely do your best to keep it clean and dry so it can be enjoyed by everyone in your residence. Doing a routine cleaning procedure and handling stains promptly can keep your carpet looking like new. Here are some maintenance tips you can use on your own carpeting.

Know The Type Of Carpet

If you are confident you may be able to handle stain removal and carpet cleaning procedures on your own, the result you get will depend on the type of carpeting you are working with. Most household carpets are made from materials that can handle moisture and mild chemicals to remove stains. If you are working with an oriental rug, you will need to avoid any moisture, as the dyes used will bleed when wet. Other carpets better handled by a professional include wool and berber blends.

Keeping Carpet Clean

Routine maintenance can help keep carpet looking its best. Make sure to vacuum your carpeting every few days to keep crumbs and dirt from setting in the fibers of your carpeting. Steam cleaning every few months can help keep it looking new. Consider purchasing a steam cleaner to be used whenever you wish. You can also rent a steam cleaner from home goods stores or grocery stores, if needed.

Proper Stain Removing Method

When trying to remove a stain, first pick out any solid pieces by hand. Never rub a stain. This will just embed it further into the fibers of your carpeting making it more difficult to remove. Instead, blot starting from the exterior edges of the stained area and work your way to the middle of the stain. This will contain the stain in one area, making it easier to remove in full.

Removing Water-Soluble Stains

Many stains are made from material that is water-soluble. These types of stains include alcohol, dirt, ice cream, soda, food dyes and gravy. To remove, use a mixture of half a teaspoon of vinegar and 32 ounces of warm water. Blot the stain with a piece of material that has been dipped inside this mixture and continue until the stain fades completely.

Some stains will need a mixture of ammonia and water instead of vinegar and water. These stains include vomit, blood, wine, tea or coffee. Use a tablespoon of ammonia mixed in a cup of water to remove these types of stains.