How to Care and Clean Your Carpet from Interiors by Sutton
Comprehensive Carpet Care Guide
Comprehensive Carpet Care Guide
General Carpet Care Tips (For All Materials)
- Vacuuming: Regular vacuuming prevents dirt buildup. Use a beater bar for synthetic fibres and suction-only for natural fibres.
- Immediate Stain Removal: Blot spills immediately with a clean cloth; avoid rubbing the area.
- Test Cleaning Products: Always test cleaning agents in an inconspicuous area before using them widely to avoid discolouration or fibre damage.
- Professional Cleaning: Schedule professional cleaning every 12-18 months to ensure thorough maintenance.
- Furniture Protection: Use coasters or pads under furniture legs to avoid indentations. Rearrange furniture regularly to distribute wear.
- Sunlight Protection: Prolonged sunlight exposure may cause carpets to fade; use curtains or UV window treatments to protect them.
1. Jute Carpet
Jute is a natural, soft fibre ideal for low-traffic areas but sensitive to moisture.
- Vacuuming: Use a suction-only vacuum to protect the delicate fibres. Avoid using a beater bar.
- Stain Removal: Blot spills immediately with a dry cloth. Avoid water, as it can cause staining or warping. Use dry-cleaning powders for any treatment.
- Deep Cleaning: Professional dry cleaning is recommended for jute. Avoid moisture, as it may lead to shrinkage or mould growth.
2. Nylon Carpet
Nylon is durable, stain-resistant, and resilient, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.
- Vacuuming: Vacuum 1-2 times a week using a beater bar. Nylon recovers well from foot traffic and is less prone to crushing.
- Stain Removal: Use a damp cloth with mild detergent for water-based stains, and solvent cleaners for oil-based spills.
- Deep Cleaning: Steam cleaning or hot water extraction is effective every 12-18 months to restore texture and remove deeply embedded dirt.
3. Polyester Carpet
Polyester is soft, stain-resistant, and colourfast, though less durable in high-traffic areas.
- Vacuuming: Regular vacuuming with a rotating brush will prevent dirt buildup and maintain the fibres' loft.
- Stain Removal: Polyester naturally repels stains, so a mild detergent and water will suffice for most spills. Avoid harsh chemicals that could degrade the fibres.
- Deep Cleaning: Professional cleaning every 12-18 months is ideal to remove oil residues and maintain vibrant colours.
4. Polypropylene Carpet
Polypropylene is water-resistant and affordable, though prone to crushing in high-traffic areas.
- Vacuuming: Frequent vacuuming with a rotating brush is needed to prevent the fibres from matting.
- Stain Removal: Clean most spills with warm water and a mild detergent. Polypropylene resists most stains but can attract dirt easily if not maintained.
- Deep Cleaning: Steam cleaning every 6-12 months helps maintain the appearance and texture of polypropylene carpets.
5. Sisal Carpet
Sisal is a durable, natural fibre that is highly absorbent and should be kept in dry, low-traffic areas.
- Vacuuming: Regular suction-only vacuuming is essential, as sisal tends to trap dirt within its coarse fibres.
- Stain Removal: Blot spills immediately and use dry-cleaning powders. Avoid water-based cleaners to prevent staining or warping of the fibres.
- Deep Cleaning: Sisal should not be cleaned with water. Professional dry cleaning is recommended to avoid moisture damage.
6. Wool Carpet
Wool is a luxurious, durable natural fibre, but it requires careful maintenance to preserve its quality.
- Vacuuming: Wool should be vacuumed regularly using a brushless or suction-only vacuum to prevent shedding and protect the fibre integrity.
- Stain Removal: For spills, blot immediately with cold water and a wool-safe cleaner. Avoid hot water and scrubbing, as this can damage the fibres.
- Deep Cleaning: Wool carpets should be professionally cleaned using dry extraction or low-moisture methods every 12-18 months to avoid shrinkage or yellowing.