Numerous types of accidents and oversights can lead to carpet stains. Even stain-resistant carpet can pick up unsightly spots and discolorations due to spilled wine or tracking in debris from outside. According to a study conducted by Sears, 25 percent of carpet cleaning is due to tracking in mud and dirt. Removing shoes at the door or in the foyer is one way to avoid this, but what if someone forgets or there are pets in the home? Whether stains show up due to occasional accidents or accumulate over time, there are some common reasons why they happen.
- Pet Stains
A pet can provide the owner with the joy of companionship, but it is inevitable that a pet will have an accident inside the home. Whether a pet tracks in the mud, isn’t able to make it outside or to the litter box or gets sick, pet stains can require professional cleaning like Smart Commercial Cleaning Adelaide. Accidents due to housetraining, aging, or illness, can release several chemicals into the carpet which can cause damage for years. Besides accidents, having pets in the home can lead to the buildup of pet dander in the carpets. Those who have allergies or become allergic to pet dander will want to schedule regular cleanings to remove the dander.
- Food and Drinks
Stains from spilled food, wine, and other drinks are common. Holiday parties, get-togethers, and simple carelessness can result in a red or purple splotch on the carpet. Most food and alcohol is considered to be a water-soluble or special water-soluble stain. Using non-bleach cleaning solutions mixed with water can often help pre-treat and remove the stain. When pre-treating and removing stains, it is important to blot the stain and avoid rubbing it further into the carpet. It will be easier to blot stains out of stain-resistant carpet, but renting a professional steam cleaner can also help.
- Mud and Dirt
Children and guests can easily track in mud and dirt, especially in high-traffic areas of the home. These areas include hallways, doors, and common areas such as the kitchen. Those who live in climates where there is a lot of rain or snow during the winter are more vulnerable. It is not always possible to avoid these types of stains, despite precautions such as floor mats or a mud room. Some homeowners choose to convert to hardwood or laminate floors to avoid carpet stains from mud and dirt. However, rugs and flooring can still be impacted and require cleaning. Even if everyone always takes off their shoes by the door, it is possible to track in trace amounts of dirt and debris.
Removing carpet stains is an unavoidable part of life, but not impossible. Similar to other parts of a home, carpets require regular maintenance and upkeep. Vacuuming at least once a week, spot treating stains in high-traffic areas, and scheduling annual professional deep cleanings can help keep the carpet in the best shape. While some choose the do-it-yourself route with carpet cleanings, there are some things to keep in mind. Renting a powerful enough steam cleaner will help avoid damage from too much water and using fans can help expedite the drying process. Keeping carpet damp or wet from more than a day can increase the risk of mold and mildew. Professional cleaners can ensure all these details are taken care of but look for companies that are bonded and insured.
