Soiling versus Staining

Soiling is loose dirt, food and other particles in the carpet. It can be removed by sweeping or better still vacuuming regularly. If left too long it may become embedded in the pile, causing damage or staining. A dark coloured or patterned carpet will hide soiling better than a light or plain carpet, until the next vacuuming.

Staining of a carpet is far more serious and requires prompt action to remove the spillage, as well as the proper application of the correct cleaning materials and methods.

Carpet Maintenance

1. Vacuum Regularly
The most important routine in caring for your carpet. It prevents dust build up and damage from hard particles.

2. Steam Clean Periodically
The frequency will depend on the amount of traffic and soiling - normally every year or two we recommend that you call in a professional.

3. Remove spots and spills immediately
Find out exactly what has been spilt. Use small quantities of the right shampoo or chemicals to avoid overwetting the carpet. Work the stain from the edge inwards to prevent it spreading. Blot the carpet pile, rather than rubbing it. Rinse the treated area with clean water and avoid walking on the damp area to prevent quick re-soiling.

The first step in removing stains is to know your carpet and the properties of the fibres used to construct it.

Kevin Bates Flooring & Carpeting supplies The HOST Dry Carpet Cleaning System:

The HOST Dry Carpet Cleaning System is much easier – and less messy – to use than shampoo or steam cleaning methods. There is no Wet Carpet because HOST is a low-moisture cleaner, there’s no waiting for wet carpet to dry. With HOST, you can walk on your carpet during and immediately after cleaning! Unlike wet cleaning methods, HOST doesn’t leave any sticky, soapy residue behind to attract dirt and cause resoiling – and spots won’t wick back. Cleaning your carpet regularly with HOST will help reduce dust mites, dust mite allergens, cat allergens and mold spores*.HOST Dry Carpet Cleaner comes ready to use because it contains a balanced blend of moisture, detergent and a small amount of safe-to-use solvents. There are no chemicals to mix, no filling or dumping of messy water tanks. HOST is natural and non-toxic, so it’s safe for children and pets. HOST works great on synthetic and stain-resistant carpet and natural fibers like wool, sisal and jute. In fact, HOST carries the WoolSafe seal of approval. You won’t have to worry about damage from shrinkage, over wetting, mold and mildew…or damage to your hardwood floors. * The HOST System of applying HOST Dry Carpet Cleaner to the carpet, brushing it through the carpet and then vacuuming up the HOST Dry Carpet Cleaner removes dirt and reduces allergens. Research studies have shown that one cleaning with the HOST System using HOST Machines reduces: Dust mites by 78%, Dust Mite Allergen by 75%, Cat Allergen by 85%, Mold Spores by 85%.

www.hostdry.com

• Use walk-off mats at all entrances and clean them often
• Move heavy furniture occasionally to minimise pile crushing and change traffic patterns in a room
• Use castor protectors or carpet off-cuts under heavy furniture
• Protect your carpet from prolonged periods of direct sunlight, with blinds or curtains
• Avoid using household chemicals, medicines and cosmetics over your carpet - they can permanently stain or bleach your carpet.

Please feel free to contact us for further information and advice.

Click here to view the Nouwens Carpet Care Guide.

Kevin Bates cannot be held responsible for any damage that may occur to carpets as a result of the incorrect application of maintenance and stain removal procedures.