How To Vacuum Your Carpet Properly? Easy Cleaning Hack!

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Many people are familiar with using a vacuum cleaner to remove dust and dirt from carpets. However, properly caring for and preserving your carpet requires more than just vacuuming.

Here are some tips to help you vacuum your carpet effectively, keeping it in excellent condition and looking as good as new.

Selecting the Appropriate Vacuum Cleaner


Vacuum cleaners come in various types, from handheld models to those with additional support. However, not all will provide the best service for your carpet. Your primary consideration should be choosing a vacuum that meets your carpet’s specific needs.

A quality vacuum cleaner will maintain your carpet’s condition while delivering excellent cleaning results.

When purchasing a new carpet, always check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions. Different rugs require different types of vacuum cleaners. For example, modern carpets may need specialized vacuums compared to traditional synthetic ones.

If you’re installing a central vacuum system, it’s essential to choose the right vacuum heads for soft, modern carpets.

When selecting a vacuum, particularly for allergy sufferers, it’s crucial to gather accurate information on the available brands.

Following the CRI System Guidelines

The Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) provides a system that offers accurate guidance when purchasing a vacuum cleaner. This system tests vacuums in three key areas: soil removal, dust management, and the ability to maintain the carpet’s original appearance.

A vacuum cleaner that meets these standards earns the CRI logo. Look for this label when choosing a vacuum cleaner.

Steps to Properly Vacuum Your Carpet

1. Prepare Your Vacuum

Ensure your vacuum is ready for use. Check if the dust bag is full or if the filter needs cleaning or replacement. Also, adjust the vacuum to the correct height for your carpet.

2. Clear the Area

Before vacuuming, remove any small objects like coins, toys, or paper clips, as they can damage your vacuum if suctioned. Walk around the entire carpet, picking up these items before starting.

3. Use of Beater Bars

Many vacuum cleaners have a spinning brush, or beater bar, designed to loosen soil particles from carpet fibers. While effective for traditional carpets, beater bars can damage soft carpets by pulling on loops. Carpets with loops, like Berber, should not be vacuumed with a beater bar, as the threads can loosen and make the carpet appear untidy. Additionally, natural fiber carpets, such as wool, should also be cleaned without a beater bar to prevent damage.

4. Vacuum Slowly

Move the vacuum cleaner slowly back and forth to ensure it picks up all dust and debris. Rushing may leave behind particles that can harm your carpet. Overlap each pass to ensure thorough cleaning.

5. Use the Attachments

Most vacuum cleaners come with attachments, like a hose for hard-to-reach areas and a crevice tool for baseboards. These accessories help minimize dust buildup and ensure comprehensive cleaning.

6. Cleaning Surface Rugs

Use the vacuum’s padding attachment to clean delicate areas of rugs, such as those made from wool or silk. For traditional cut-pile carpets, a beater bar can be used, but avoid running it along the edges to prevent pulling out threads.

7. Cleaning Stairs

Vacuuming carpeted stairs can be challenging. The best approach is to use a hose attachment or crevice tool for a thorough clean. Focus on areas where dust tends to collect, like the back of the stair tread.

8. Vacuum Regularly

The frequency of vacuuming depends on household activity. If there’s minimal foot traffic, vacuum once a week. For homes with pets or heavy foot traffic, vacuuming three times a week is ideal. This helps reduce allergens like dust and pet hair while maintaining your carpet’s appearance and performance. Use a vacuum cleaner suitable for allergy sufferers to enhance air quality.

 

About Mosabbir

As the Executive Director of Houzhold's Home Care and Cleaning department, Mosabbir brings over 12 years of experience as a consumer products expert to the table. He utilises his advanced analytical skills and writing expertise in appliances, cleaning, and housekeeping products to provide valuable cleaning and home care advice for Houzhold. Mosabbir also holds a Masters degree in business management, which enables him to oversee the department efficiently while producing insightful content for the company.