How to steam clean a carpet
We have talked a lot about keeping your floors clean – how often to do it, what to do and what not to do, and how to look after your carpet to give it a long life. While we have mentioned steam cleaning a few times, as it’s not something many of us do very often, it’s one of those jobs that we could do with a reminder of once in a while. This month, as we move from summer to autumn, we are taking an in-depth look at how to steam clean your carpet so that you can move into the winter season free of the summer’s dust and grime.
Furniture
Ideally, you should move furniture out of the way so that you can give the entire carpet the same level of deep cleaning. This will also avoid any changes in texture and colour as steam cleaning can help to even out any such changes that inevitably take place as we walk around. If you ever decide to move furniture around your room and change the layout it will also mean you don’t have to get the steam cleaner out again just for those sections.
Vacuum
Giving the carpet a good vacuuming first will remove all the superficial dust and crumbs that work their way into the carpet fibres. This will also help your steam cleaner to focus on deeper dirt and stains and get them out faster.
Water and soap
Your steam cleaner may have come with its own detergent, but if not you can buy some at the supermarket. Just look out for one that is suitable for steam cleaners. Make sure to follow the instructions on your cleaner to avoid using too much detergent which could ruin both your cleaner and the carpet. Heat some water and fill the container with the right solution of hot water and soap and you’re ready to get started.
Steam cleaning technique
The most efficient way to steam clean a carpet is to work in parallel, straight lines. Start furthest from the door so that you can step out once finished without traipsing over you newly cleaned and still wet carpet. Move along the floor in tight lines to ensure you don’t miss anything and have the windows and doors open to allow the carpet to dry. Depending on how much soap and water you’ve used you may need to give it a good amount of time to dry. If you must walk on it then use socks, but whatever you do keep shoes off it – you don’t want to undo all the hard work you’ve just put in! It is also a good idea to get out for some fresh air once finished and clear your head of the smell and fumes from the carpet cleaner, another good reason for keeping the doors and windows open to help air the room out. Remember to keep your pets out of the room until it’s dry as well!
For help and advice on carpet maintenance or if it is time for a new carpet get in touch with our Cherry Carpets team. We’re on the phone on 020 8249 9726 as well as on email at , and remember we also offer a free quote service.