Carpet Care Tips from the Carpet Experts in the Baltimore Metro Area

1. Don't walk on freshly cleaned carpet for at least 4 hours or more until dry to the touch.
2. Don't remove foam or plastic pieces that have been placed under legs of furniture until carpet is completely dry.
3. Don't allow children or pets to crawl around on damp carpet for at least 4 to 5 hours, preferably 8 hours, and not until it is completely dry.
4. Vacuum right after the carpet is dry, and then vacuum on a regular schedule.

Prevent Dirt from Entering Your Space

• Use mats: Indoor/outdoor mats and runners can reduce the amount of dirt that enters your home.
• Remove your shoes: Save wear and tear on your carpet by asking everyone to remove their shoes before walking on carpeted areas.

Removing Spots & Stains

Most carpet available today has been treated with a stain-resistant treatment; so many spills can be removed if immediate action is taken. The longer the delay, the higher the probability of a spill becoming a permanent stain. Blot liquids with a dry, white, absorbent cloth or white paper toweling (no printing).

Do not scrub the area! Scrubbing may cause pile distortion in the affected area. Continue to use a dry cloth or paper towels until the area is completely dry.

For semi-solids, gently scrape up with a rounded spoon. Solids should be broken up and vacuumed until completely removed. If the spot can be identified, locate the substance in the spot removal computer and follow the directions carefully.

After the spill has been completely removed, rinse the affected area thoroughly with cold water, and blot with a dry cloth until all of the solution has been removed. Some cleaning solutions will cause rapid soiling if the solution is not completely removed. Apply a half-inch layer of white paper towels to the affected area, and weigh down with a flat, heavy object. Continue to change paper towels as needed.

Depressions or Indentations in Carpet

The weight of heavy pieces of furniture can cause indentations in carpet. Some depressions may be permanent. Use furniture glides or cups under the legs of heavy pieces, or move your furniture a few inches backward or sideways so that the weight is not concentrated in one place.

To remedy depressions, work the carpet pile back into place with your fingertips or the edge of a spoon, then, dampen the area and heat it with a hair dryer, working the fibers with your fingers or a spoon. Use caution not to burn or melt fibers.

Wrinkles, Ripples, and Buckles in Your Carpet

Wrinkles, ripples, and buckles in carpet are most often caused by a failure to stretch the carpet correctly using a power stretcher, the use of an incorrect or failed cushion, or excessive temperature and/or humidity. Ripples can be caused by a combination of any of the above. If ripples or buckles develop, consult your carpet retailer. Generally, the problem can be corrected by a qualified carpet installer who re-installs the carpet with a power stretcher.