Knowing when and how often your carpets need to be cleaned can be confusing. However, in this blog, we answer that exact question according to the latest science.
The general guideline from health professionals and carpet manufacturers is to have your carpets professionally deep cleaned every 6 to 18 months. Check out our article on how to prepare for a carpet clean here. This will help to keep your carpet looking its best, prolong its life and keep your home healthy. However, this may change depending on several factors. It really depends on your lifestyle and how you use your carpets.
Below we've dived into some common factors which will determine how often you should get your carpet cleaned.
How often do you vacuum?
We don't like to be the bearer of bad news, but
vacuuming doesn't count as carpet cleaning; however, if you vacuum at least once per week, it will help keep your carpets healthy and looking new for longer. Regular vacuuming will remove some of the loose dirt from the surface of your carpet before it has time to settle deeper. Unfortunately, no matter how often you vacuum, your carpets will require a professional deep clean every 12 -18 months to remove the build-up of deep dust, dirt and grime. Chances are, if you don't vacuum regularly, your carpets will need to be cleaned at least every 6-12 months.
How often should I clean my carpet with young children?
Kids are messy. Whether it's dropping food or bringing muddy footprints into your home, keeping your carpets clean with children in the house can be a challenge. Babies and toddlers, in particular, spend a lot of time on the carpet, so ensuring your carpets are clean and hygienic is essential, as your carpets can be a breeding ground for bacteria if not looked after correctly. A good rule of thumb is to have your carpets cleaned every 6-12 months if you have small children.
What colour is your carpet?
Light-coloured carpet is notorious for highlighting any dirt, dust or stains, and that's why light-coloured carpets need to be deep cleaned more regularly. Experts recommend professional cleaning at least once per year and, in some cases, more often to prolong its life and to keep it looking its best for longer.
If I have allergies, how often should I clean my carpet?
Research suggests that 200,000 bacteria could inhabit every 2.5 centimetres of your carpet. Every time someone walks on your carpet, some of these particles are released and become airborne, which are then often inhaled. The most effective way to remove this bacteria is to get your carpet professionally cleaned. If allergies are chronic, it's recommended to clean your carpets every six months.
Do you allow shoes to be worn inside?
It's recommended to professionally clean your carpet once every 6- 12 months if you wear shoes inside to ensure the longevity of your carpet. Shoes track dirt and grit into your home, which, if left untreated for a prolonged period of time, can cause permanent damage to your carpet.
Does your carpet warranty require a particular cleaning schedule?
Many carpet manufacturers offer a warranty of longevity; however, most will require you to follow specific cleaning guidelines not to void the warranty. Most guarantees require you to get your carpet professionally cleaned between 6-18 months. Check with your carpet manufacturer for their requirements.
As you can tell by now, there isn't a one size fits all rule when it comes to how often you should get your carpets cleaned. The best thing you can do if you're still unsure when it's time for your carpet to be cleaned is to give A-Jet Services a call for free advice or a quote. We're always happy to answer any questions you might have!