Carpet requires special care to remain plush and clean. Fibers can be damaged with the wrong maintenance or, worse, ruined. To ensure a long and trouble-free life for your carpeting, avoid the three following mistakes.

Common Carpet Maintenance Miscues

1. Using the Wrong Products & Equipment

When you’re cleaning your carpets, use the right products and tools. Some soaps and powders settle at the base of a carpet’s fibers and gather grime. Harsh chemical cleaners weaken fibers and may cause dyes to bleed or fade. Use only products specifically formulated for carpet cleaning, and don’t use outdated vacuums or shampooers. Faulty vacuums may mar fibers, and shampooing machines, if not operating as they should, may leave behind residues and moisture that cause molds and weaken fibers

2. Not Vacuuming Often Enough

Daily vacuuming is probably unrealistic for most homeowners. Instead, aim to vacuum up dirt and debris once or twice a week. Dirt and oils that sink into a carpet abrades fibers. Ideally, you should lift dirt and oil from carpeting before they have a chance to settle. By using the correct vacuum setting for your carpet’s pile height, you’ll avoid snagging the wool, nylon, or polyester.

3. Not Using Rugs & Runners

The fibers of heavily trafficked zones—particularly entryways, living rooms, and staircases—will inevitably compress, and staining is also common. Area rugs and runners, if strategically placed around your home, will absorb much of the wear and tear from foot traffic and lengthen the life of your carpeting.

If you’re interested in adding carpeting or other new flooring to your home, Accent Flooring carries a wide selection of premium products to suit any decor. Based in Cincinnati, OH, these professionals sell and install ceramic tile flooring, vinyl, hardwood, laminate, and carpet. Explore their products on their website, or call (513) 481-8600 today for an estimate.