| Todays
carpet fibers are designed to hide soil and reflect light, and
have the ability to resist soiling and stains. The effect of
soil in carpet is not as visible as it is on hard surface
flooring where soil remains on the surface and is easily seen.
The ability of today's carpet fibers to hide soiling is a
positive feature for most consumers. However, the lack of
apparent soiling does not eliminate the necessity of regular
cleaning.
Most dry soil has razor-like
edges that abrade carpet fibers causing light to reflect
differently and giving carpet a dull appearance. Soil can
damage the fibers permanently if allowed to remain in the
pile.
A regular maintenance program
extends the life and the initial appearance of your carpet.
Specific care information may be available from your carpet
dealer or from a toll free number provided by the carpet
manufacturer or fiber producer.
Basic Vacuuming
A good practice is to vacuum often the areas that receive the
most traffic, such as hallways, stairs, exterior entryways,
and paths in the home where there is constant wear. Vacuum the
entire carpeted area a minimum of twice per week.
Removing loose soil while it
remains on the surface is important so that it is not worked
into the carpet pile by foot traffic. Removing embedded soil
is more difficult and time consuming than removing surface
soil.
To remove surface soil, push
the vacuum forward several feet with the pile direction of the
carpet in a slow, deliberate motion and then reverse
direction. Embedded soil is more effectively removed by
pulling the vacuum against the pile direction in a slow,
deliberate motion.
Vacuum Cleaner Selection-
For maximum effectiveness, use a vacuum cleaner that has
adjustable and rotating brushes that are able to loosen
ground-in soil, and a strong enough airflow to penetrate to
the backing, extracting all particles. The vacuum cleaner
should have an enclosed, high filtration bag that limits
particles from re-circulating into the air.
For the best cleaning results,
no matter which type vacuum cleaner you purchase, inspect it
periodically to be sure it is functioning properly.
- Keep
brushes clean and replace them when worn.
- Keep
vacuum hoses and attachments free of obstructions that
restrict airflow.
- Inspect
the vacuum head for rough edges or bent metal that may
damage your carpet.
- Inspect
belts frequently to make certain they are working
properly.
- Always
keep a spare belt for replacement as needed.
Follow
the vacuum cleaner manufacturer's instructions, and change the
vacuum bag when it becomes more than half full. As the bag
becomes full, efficiency is reduced. |