And the Award for the Best Way to Clean Carpets Goes To

When looking for the best way to clean carpets there are three things to consider: The type of carpet, the type of stain and the size of the area you will need to clean. For extremely large jobs hot-water extraction is the best way to clean carpeting. For smaller stains or stains that may be set in by heat it is better to use chemical cleaning products.

Hot-water extraction is similar to power washing your carpet except rather than being left to dry the water is sucked back out bring the dirt with it. This method uses extremely hot water (typically around 175°) which kills all bacteria and other things that may live in dirty carpets. This method should be used by professional cleaners only. Generic home units often leave behind residual build up which can ruin your carpet. Smaller stains and stains that may be set in by heat should not be cleaned this way.

A small stain does not require this kind of care. Professional hot-water extraction is expensive and since it is unnecessary to remove the stain you can save the money by using commercial carpet stain removers. These cleaners are often designed to work on a specific type of stain or carpet so check he label before selecting a cleaner. To use this type of cleaner simply work the cleaner into the carpeting and suck back out with a shop vac. When the stain is gone, rinse with water and blot dry. Be sure to rinse until all of the stain remover is gone. Leaving it in your carpeting may cause fading or other damage. Use this method on stains that may be set by heat also.

Stains that are set by heat include but are not limited to blood and crayon. With a crayon stains you must be extremely careful. Crayons contain dye and both carpeting and carpet stain remover react differently to dye. Be positive that the cleaner you are using is able to be used on dye stains. These cleaners may be harsh and fade the carpeting. If this happens consider dying the patch of carpet back to its original color.

The best way to clean carpets is to combine these two methods. If you carefully determine the kind and size of the stain you will know exactly what method you need to use. To keep your home beautifully clean, simply remember this; the type of carpet, the type of stain and the size of the area you will need to clean is imperative to the job. For best results be prudent not impetuous and you will be quite content with your results.

Author Bio

Stanley Home Products has been in business since 1931, and offers high quality home and personal care products to keep your home and your body clean.