Between foot traffic, spills, pets, and everyday dust, carpets and rugs can get extremely dirty. Not only can debris impact the look and feel of carpets, but it can leave bacteria behind. Learn what could be lurking in your living room rugs or bedroom carpet and what to do about it.

How Dirty Can Carpets Get?

While there are visible signs of a dirty carpet — such as dirt, stains, and smells — other irritants can get trapped within the textile fibers. Dust mites, pet hair and fluids, dead skin cells, pollen, and mold may be lingering in your carpet and rugs, affecting air quality, cleanliness, and your health. Those who struggle with allergies, asthma, eczema, and other conditions may be affected more by these trapped contaminants.

There are several ways to limit the amount of dirt that gets and stays in your carpet:

• Use door mats to trap outside dirt
• Remove shoes at the door
• Quickly treat spills or pet stains
• Properly ventilate humid areas to prevent mold
• Regularly sweep floors and vacuum carpets and rugs
• Professionally steam clean textiles

Preventing and removing contaminants quickly and consistently helps to maintain a clean, healthy indoor environment.

How Clean Can Carpets Get?

Even with regular vacuuming and steam cleaning, the level of cleanliness depends on several factors, including the cleaning method and the carpet’s material and age. Depending on the type of dirt and method of cleaning, your carpet can start to show wear and tear overtime. Here are some factors to consider before choosing the type of carpet cleaning process:

• Material. Some carpets are more durable than others. Nylon, polyester, wool respond differently to cleaning methods and chemicals. Follow any manufacturer’s recommendations before treating a stain or steam cleaning.
• Condition. Older carpets may harbor more pollutants and allergens, especially as the fibers break down.
• Method. Dry cleaning with powder and a vacuum may work for light maintenance, but steam cleaning and shampooing can help sanitize and provide a deeper clean. Just be sure the carpet material can handle this method, and properly rinse and dry the carpet to prevent residue and mold.
• Professional cleaning services. Utilize specialized equipment and techniques to remove embedded dirt, stains, and allergens.

Keeping your carpets and rugs well maintained not only helps keep the space clean and healthy, but it can also help extend the life of the material. However, nothing lasts forever. Overtime, textile fibers can break down, mat, or fray. Some stains may not come out. Depending on the situation, you may be better off replacing a heavily soiled or damaged carpet instead of attempting to clean it. Before you decide to get rid of the carpet, call JDog Carpet Cleaning & Floor Care to discuss our carpet cleaning services. We’ll help you get your soft flooring back in shape.