When you have children, the carpets can take a beating. Food and beverage spills, crayon and marker stains, and dirt on little shoes are among the many child-related ways carpets can become discolored and odorous. Thankfully, there are many carpet cleaning and maintenance steps you can take to protect your carpet from children. 

How to Maintain Clean Carpets When You Have Children

1. Vacuum Regularly

Frequent vacuuming removes food crumbs, dirt particles, dust, and other grime that mars your carpets. How often you need to vacuum depends on how many children you have and whether pets are also present. For example, if you have two or three small children and two dogs, daily vacuuming is best to keep the carpets in good condition. If you have one or two children and no pets, you can probably get away with vacuuming two or three times a week. Routine vacuuming in combination with professional carpet cleaning prevents severe discoloration. 

2. Create “Carpet Rules”

Establishing rules about your home’s carpeting protects it from assorted stains. Depending on your children’s ages, you could let them know that there is no eating or using art supplies in the formal living room and other spaces with high-quality carpets. If your children are in the toddler stage, put up baby gates to keep them out of selected rooms in your home. Baby gates also work well when you have pets that need to stay out of certain areas. 

3. Attack Stains Immediately 

The sooner you spot-treat stains, the less likely they are to set. Different stains require different removal methods, such as using 1 cup of water with 1 tablespoon of ammonia to clean chocolate, vomit, and other water-soluble stains. Glue stains typically lift with rubbing alcohol, while gum benefits from ice applications. Once the sticky substance is frozen, break it apart with a spoon. Keep the carpet type in mind when removing stains, such as using detergent instead of ammonia on wool carpets to avoid damage.

For professional carpet cleaning services, rely on Superior Carpet Care in Texarkana, TX. Serving residential and commercial clients within a 30-mile radius, this carpet cleaning company also offers rug and upholstery cleaning, among other services. Call (903) 319-7854 today to make an appointment or learn more about services online.