Home Improvement

from 78209 Magazine - September 2022

On the Market

How Often Should You Have Your Carpets Cleaned

Not only do dirty carpets and rugs look bad, but not getting them cleaned consistently enough can shorten their lifespan. Dirt and grime act like sandpaper, eating away at carpet fiber every time you walk on it. But just how often should you get your carpets and rugs professionally cleaned? There are a few factors to consider.

Carpet Warranty

If you have a newer carpet, it might have come with a manufacturer warranty. Be sure to read all the terms and conditions to ensure you are in compliance and can take advantage of that warranty if the need arises. Most require annual cleanings by a professional cleaning company as a warranty condition.

Eyeball (or Nose) Test

Does your carpet look (or smell) like it needs to be cleaned? Dirt begins accumulating at the base of your carpet long before it becomes visible, which will be much sooner for lighter carpets and rugs. As a rule of thumb, you want to clean your carpets before they get to this stage.

Your carpet absorbs and clings to smells from spills and accidents over time, which tend to be more noticeable to your guests when entering your home. Regular cleanings can keep your carpet and rugs looking and smelling fresh.

Who Uses Your Carpets?

Pets who travel between outside and inside track dirt and allergens that your carpet and rugs will absorb. The heavier traffic your carpets and rugs receive, the dirtier they will get. And as most pet owners know, the occasional accident is not always avoidable.

young children spend a lot of time on the carpet, and you want to keep it fresh and clean for them. Homes with children are also recommended to have more frequent cleanings.

Seasonal Needs

Whether your carpet is due for cleaning can also depend on seasonal and environmental factors. If your area has received a lot of rain or snow lately, it’s more likely that mud or other dirt has been tracked into your home.

Additionally, if you suffer from seasonal allergies having your carpet cleaned could be a source of relief. Carpet and rugs act like giant filters that absorb pollen from the air, but once it gets full, it releases them back with every step.

A good rule of thumb is to have your carpet and rugs cleaned annually to maintain warranties and keep your home looking and smelling fresh. If any of the above factors apply, you may want to consider more frequent cleanings every 6-8 months.

Meg Walker is Vice President of Aladdin Cleaning & Restoration in San Antonio, TX. Aladdin has been in business since 1956, with 3 locations and over 30 employees. Aladdin specializes in the cleaning of Oriental Rugs, carpets, Upholstery, Air Ducts, and more. After graduating from Texas Christian University in 2004, Meg began her career at Aladdin in accounting, marketing, and HR. She completed the UTSA Building Business Excellence Program in 2009. In 2016 Meg graduated from the Master Rug Cleaner Program. Meg has served on the Board of the Association of Rug Care Specialists since 2016 and is the current Past-President.