Proper care and cleaning can make a big difference in retaining your carpet's beauty over many years of regular use. To get the most out of your investment, here are a few things you should know about carpet care and maintenance.

How can I maintain my warranted carpet?
Why are entrance mats important?
Why is vacuuming important?
What is important to know about choosing a vacuum?
What other vacuuming things should I be aware of?
Why is it important to blot spills immediately?
Why is cleaning my carpet necessary?
Typically how often should my carpet be cleaned?
Which cleaning method is recommended?
Is do-it-yourself carpet cleaning okay?

How can I maintain my warranted carpet?
There are four key things to do to maintain your carpet:
                                                1.  Use entrance mats.
                                                2.  Vacuum regularly.
                                                3.  Blot up spills immediately.
                                                4.  Clean periodically
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Why are entrance mats important?
Place mats inside and outside entrances to trap soil before it can be tracked into your home. These walk-off mats will minimize dirt particles being tracked into the carpet and reduce soil accumulation. Soil is the greatest threat to your carpet's appearance.
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Why is vacuuming important?
The most important thing you can do for your carpet is to vacuum thoroughly and regularly, particularly in high traffic areas. You cannot vacuum too often. Removing dirt particles will reduce abrasion that can dull carpet fibers. Keeping your carpet free from dirt will also reduce the frequency of cleaning, prolonging the life of your carpet's protective treatment.
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What is important to know about choosing a vacuum?
Use a vacuum with a beater-bar which will raise the pile while it removes soil. Also make sure the vacuum has good suction.
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What other vacuuming things should I be aware of?
Areas receiving more traffic (hallways, entrances) will require more frequent vacuuming. Rather than vacuuming all of the carpet every day, concentrate the daily vacuuming in traffic areas, using a regular weekly schedule for other areas.

The vacuum cleaner should be pushed back and forth slowly, at least four passes in each direction, with the head set at the right height to enable suction to remove the soil. If not properly adjusted excessive brush agitation may cause damage to loop pile Berber carpet.

Change bags and filters routinely.
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Why is it important to blot spills immediately?
No carpet is stain proof, however prompt attention to spills and spots will help relieve your carpet from stains. Always blot the area being cleaned. Never rub, scrub or brush. come back next month for instructions and tips on cleaning spills and stain removal.
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Why is cleaning my carpet necessary?
First, periodic cleaning is normally a mandatory element of the maintenance requirements of the manufacturer's stain protection warranty. (Note each carpet is different and each carpet warranties different. Refer to your carpet warranty for proper maintenance and cleaning requirements for your particular carpet.)

Second, regular cleaning and maintenance are needed to keep your carpet looking great year after year and will help to prolong the life of your carpet.
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Typically how often should my carpet be cleaned?
Most manufacturers recommend professional cleaning at least every 24 months. However the frequency is dictated by the soiled condition of the carpet. When the surface first appears dirty, even after vacuuming, or first begins to show signs of matting, further delay could damage the carpet fibers.

Is more frequent cleaning required with lighter carpet colors?
Lighter carpet shades, combined with the degree of soil build-up and the amount of traffic in the home, may require a more frequent cleaning schedule.
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Which cleaning method is recommended?
Most professionals use hot water extraction, which is more commonly known as steam cleaning. This method is usually preferred by most manufacturers because it leaves the least amount of detergent residue.

Other cleaning methods include absorbent pad or bonnet cleaning, rotary shampoo, and dry foam powder. Wet or dry methods, properly done are usually acceptable for regular maintenance cleanings. Be aware with some carpets, shampooing can leave a soap residue in the carpet which can then actually attract and hold dirt.

Always refer to the manufacturer for your particular carpet warranty for proper maintenance and cleaning requirements.
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Is do-it-yourself carpet cleaning okay?
Professional cleaning is recommended for any carpet. If you decide to do it yourself, carefully follow these guidelines:
-   Follow the manufacturer's directions carefully. Avoid the use of excess  detergent, as too much detergent causes resoiling.
Thorough rinsing is critical to cleaning success.
- Use only cleaning solutions that are acceptable for use on stain and soil resistant carpet. Cationic or chemicals with a pH greater than 10 should be avoided. Use of such products may void your warranty.
However, professional cleaning is recommended at least every 24 months.
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