Carpet cleaning

Eventually carpets need some type of cleaning to remove soil that sticks to the fibers. How often depends on amount of use and soil carpet gets; some areas will need cleaning before other. Basic methods are: dry absorbent powder, foam, shampooing, and hot water extraction (sometimes called steam cleaning or extraction). Each method has advantages and disadvantages. Costs in dollars, time, and energy vary, as do skill needed to do a good job. Always vacuum thoroughly before starting cleaning method.

Here are some general precautions for all methods:

  1. Pretest before using
  2. Protect the carpet from rust stains by putting aluminum foil, wax paper, or plastic wrap under furniture legs, until carpet is dry.
  3.  Follow the cleaner and equipment instructions as directed.
  4. Do not overwet the carpet. Excess moisture can cause shrinkage, streaks, or mildew.
  5. Keep mechanical action to a minimum to avoid carpet damage or streaks.

Liquid Shampoo

Shampooing is one of the oldest and most common methods of carpet cleaning. Mechanically operated brushes work a foamy detergent solution into the carpet pile. Excess moisture and soil are then suctioned away. When the carpet has dried, it is thoroughly vacuumed. Drying may occur gradually overnight, or may be hastened by the use of electric fans. Use a recommended carpet shampoo that dries to a crystalline powder rather than a stick residue.

Advantages

  1. good for cleaning moderate to heavily soiled carpet
  2. brightens colors and fluffs up the carpet pile
  3. moderate price

Disadvantages

  1. easy to overwet carpet
  2. needs longer drying time
  3. shampoo build-up over time can hasten resoiling

In their December 2002 issue, Rug News profiles Capel's collection of area rugs and doormats inspired by Colonial Williamsburg.