From keeping feet comfortable to reducing noise, carpet installation can enhance a living space in many ways. However, over time, wear and tear can diminish these qualities, leaving you with flooring that isn’t so fresh. Fortunately, if you adopt the right carpet cleaning practices from the start, you can keep your home's flooring in top form for years to come. To help you get the most out of this home upgrade, here are several carpet care tips every homeowner should know. 

How to Protect New Carpets

1. Regularly Vacuum 

While you might not notice dirt, dust, and debris in your home, letting them linger can lead to discoloration, bad odors, and fiber wear in your carpets. To avoid these problems, vacuum your carpets at least twice a week to remove dirt, dust, and debris that settle near the fibers. If you have pets, vacuuming more often can also help clear your home of dander—another common allergen. 

2. Place Door Mats at Every Entrance 

Visitors and pets can track dirt into your home when they walk in from outdoors, dirtying the carpets and detracting from their appearance. To keep your home clean, you can place high-quality mats near every door where people enter your home from the outside. These surfaces help remove dirt and other substances from shoes, as well as absorb moisture that can damage carpets. If you need to extend the barrier beyond the doorway, consider placing area rugs or runners to shield the carpet from heavy traffic. 

3. Never Let Spills Sit 

The longer spills sit, the more the carpet fibers will absorb pigments that can lead to permanent staining. For that reason, when accidents happen on your carpet, address them immediately. To prevent damage, avoid using rubber substances on the carpet fibers. Instead, suction away liquids with a steam cleaner or soak them up with a paper towel. Next, apply a carpet-friendly detergent that will break down staining agents and odor-causing enzymes. 

4. Snip Away the Snags 

Whether due to a scratching cat or shifting furniture, carpet fibers can sometimes come loose. If left unattended, these snags can catch onto other objects and potentially create a tripping hazard, as well as unsightly bumps. While pulling on a snag can cause further unraveling, you can address the issue by using a pair of carpet scissors to trim the problematic fiber. 

Keeping your floors flawless is easy with the help of J.L. Williard Carpet Care. Having served High Point, NC, homeowners for more than 40 years, this team of carpet cleaning experts uses tools and techniques that effectively remove stains without damaging fibers. In addition to removing odors and preventing discoloration, this team will also clear away dust mites, dander, and other allergens for easier breathing indoors. To learn more about their services—including upholstery and rug cleaning—visit this local business online. For a free carpet cleaning estimate, call (336) 885-8519.