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Tips on Carpet Care
By
Carpet Institute of Australia
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Regular
Vacuuming
Once your carpet is laid, vacuum lightly and frequently in the
first week to remove surface lint, dust and fluff.
Continue to vacuum at least weekly to remove soil and grit. The
quick removal of soil will reduce abrasive forces on the pile
fibre. In heavy traffic areas, slow repeated vacuum strokes over
the same area of carpet may be necessary. Always vacuum first
against the natural direction of pile lay as this will slightly
lift the pile and help unsettle and remove dirt and grit. When
finishing, vacuum in the direction of pile lay to achieve a uniform
finish.
Spot Cleaning: Do it Yourself
It is important to act quickly to remove any spillage before it
penetrates into the carpet fibres and pile.
See Stain Removal Guide
The CIA's How
to Select & Care for Your Carpet booklet contains a stain
removal guide listing some of the common types of stains and the
steps recommended to remove them. More information on stain removal
is available from reputable carpet retailers and anufacturers
or, for detailed information, we suggest you get a copy of Australian
Standard AS3733 'Textile floor coverings - Cleaning maintenance
of residential and commercial carpeting'.
Powder Cleaning
Powder cleaners are suitable for freshening a carpet, and as an
intermediate step between daily vacuum cleaning and periodic shampoo
or water injection and extraction cleaning.
Generally, the power is applied to the carpet after vacuuming.
The powder is brushedor massage into the pile and the carpet is
vacuumed again. It is not necessary to remove all the powder as
it can help to reduce further soiling.
Aerosol Foam Shampoo
Aerosol foam shampoo may be used for cleaning small areas. The
foam is sprayed lightly on the carpet and worked in with a damp
cloth, sponge or brush. The carpet is vacuumed once the area is
dry.
Shampoo Cleaning
Shampoo machines are available for hire at many department and
hardware stores, although we believe it's advisable to employ
the services of a professional cleaner. With this method of cleaning,
shampoo or detergent is released from a tank on the machine into
a brush. With the action of the brush, the liquid is worked into
the carpet pile. The residues can then be extracted. Shampoo cleaning
refreshes and deodorizes the carpet, and lifts the pile.
Hot Water Injection and Extraction
(Steam Cleaning)
Hot water extraction cleaning is generally recognised as the best
way to re-vitalize and deep clean your carpet. As a general guideline,
steam cleaning should be carried out at 18 month intervals, depending
on the wear and use environment.
Injection cleaning and extraction machines should only be used
by a skilled professional. If not performed properly, a carpet
can be over-wetted which can permanently distort the carpet pile
and backing materials.
Carpet Cleaning: Professional
Services
It is advisable to have your carpet professionally cleaned about
every 18 months. Professional cleaning will re-vitalize your carpet
and remove soil and other matter that has settled beyond the reach
of routine cleaning methods. We suggest you use a company recommended
by the carpet manufacturer or a company who is a member of a professional
association.
Vacuum Cleaners and Carpet
There are two major types of vacuum cleaners: barrel cleaners
and upright cleaners. Upright cleaners are particularly good as
they usually incorporate a pile agitator such as a beater bar
or revolving bristle strip that lifts the pile and facilitates
the removal of dirt and grit. However, be careful with the agitator
as over-use can damage the pile surface.
Barrel cleaners rely on suction removal only and most perform
the task quite well. Some barrel cleaners now have power head
attachments to agitate the pile in the same manner as upright
cleaners.
Ensure the vacuum cleaner is kept in a sound mechanical condition
and brushes are cleaned and replaced when worn out. Empty the
dust collection bag frequently as the suction efficiency of the
vacuum cleaner is reduced considerably even when the bag is half
full.
Most cleaners now come with micro filter systems to ensure the
fine particles (such as allergens) are removed and stay in the
collection bag. If you are dust sensitive, make sure your cleaner
has a multi filter and micro filter system. Ask your retailer
what type of vacuum is best suited to your new carpet.
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