How do you know when it's time to replace your home's rugs or carpets? Here are some expert opinions...
Dealing with carpet
Allie Mann, senior designer at Case Architects & Remodelers, is a proponent of working with carpet. "Carpet is an ideal flooring material for bedrooms, playrooms, and basements because it absorbs airborne sound, and provides significantly more insulation than a hardwood floor covering," she explains. Still, not all carpets are created equal, and you will want to base your selection on the room where it will live. When it comes to bedrooms, natural wool or synthetics like nylon will provide the most comfort underfoot.
"Nylon is considered one of the most stain-resistant carpet fibers available and a great choice in homes with pets and children," Mann adds. And feel free to install this type of carpet in other rooms of the home, too. "Synthetic fibers like nylon and polyester are great choices for basement carpeting because they tend to retain less moisture than natural fibers," Mann explains. However, even the best carpet will eventually need to be replaced. "Obvious signs like fading, wearing from high traffic, age, and foul odor are cues not to be ignored," Mann says. "It is best to deep clean your carpet at least once a year for best performance." Below are a few additional factors to look out for when determining whether it is time to replace your carpet.
READ: How to get bleach spots out of carpets
1. Your carpet is no longer plush
This may be because you did not install a carpet pad, Mann explains. "This will help maintain the life of your carpet and make it feel more plush underfoot." Carpet padding density ranges between 3 to eight pounds, and Mann suggests going with an option that is eight pounds or higher.
2. Your carpet is over 15 years old
If you've had your carpet for 15 years or longer, it has seen its fair share of wear and tear and will likely need to be replaced. "There can be debris and dirt buildup in the fibers that no amount of cleaning will completely resolve," Mann says.
Dealing with rugs
READ: 3 natural carpet options for allergy sufferers
With regard to rugs, keep in mind that purchasing a quality piece from the start will prevent you from having to make additional purchases frequently. "Well-made rugs, when cared for, can last a lifetime (and beyond)," Ben Hyman, CEO and co-founder of Revival, says. Putting in a bit of effort every now and then will pay off in the long run. "This requires monthly maintenance— sweeping, gentle vacuum, shaking rugs out— rotating them so they get even wear, and having them professionally cleaned every three to five years," Hyman explains. "If you do these things, hopefully, you never have to worry about replacing them."\
What are the main reasons you may need to replace your rug? "These include stains that won’t come out, odors that won’t go away, and visible damage or wear," according to Ruggable's chief product officer Rob Vera.
3. Fading or stains
Color change, in the form of fading or stains, may be one reason why you wish to replace your rugs. "The wear and tear from shoes or people walking on the carpet over time will show fading in certain areas," Callie Rippolone, of Callie Rippolone Design, says. "You might have stains that you have had removed multiple times and unfortunately will no longer come out even with a professional cleaning." If you anticipate that your rug will experience a decent amount of wear and tear in your home, you may wish to opt for a washable rug from the beginning. As Vera says, "Washable rugs can extend the life of your rug so you’re less likely to need a replacement— unless you want to swap it out for a new style, of course!"
READ: How to remove pet stains and odours from carpets
4. Odor
Smell is also a clear giveaway that your rug needs to be replaced. But, unfortunately, getting smells out of your rug at home may not be so simple. "It’s possible to deep clean some rugs, but this can be costly and typically requires a professional," Vera explains. "However, this professional path does not guarantee that your rug will be restored to its original condition, and you should be especially cautious when dealing with delicate vintage pieces." If that beautiful antique rug is smelling far from pleasant, it may be time to part with it for good.
5. Visible damage or wear
Wear and tear is not only aesthetically displeasing but may make it difficult to walk atop your rug. "If wear and tear is the main issue, it is best to replace the rug to avoid any tripping hazards," Vera cautions. After all, rugs should serve to make your home cozier and more functional, not cause accidents!
ALSO READ: 9 surprising things you can clean with a vacuum
Tips on how to care for your carpets:
Before hiring a professional to clean your carpets, there are DIY methods you can use to try and remove dirt and stains. Surprisingly, common household solutions you already have on hand can come together to tackle even the toughest stains.
Learn more about the best options for homemade carpet cleaners to help you take care of stains that occur:
1. Beer
Now it may sound crazy, but beer can actually help to remove coffee and tea stains. If you have spilled either liquid, the spot needs to be cleaned as quickly as possible to avoid major staining. Take a little bit of beer and pour it on top of the stain. Rub it lightly and the stain should magically disappear. You may need to use the beer a few times before the full stain is lifted.
2. Ammonia
If you are looking for a general cleanser for your carpeting, ammonia is a great option. Use one cup of clear ammonia in two litres of warm water. Sponge the solution on your carpeting in stained or dirty areas and let it dry completely. Repeat the process until the stain is removed.
3. Shaving cream
Most people have shaving cream in the home. Did you know shaving cream can be used to remove juice stains? Blot the stain, pat it with a wet rag or sponge and then put shaving cream on top. Wipe clean with a wet rag and watch as the stain is removed. It also works for oil and grease stains.
4. Salt for red wine
If you spill red wine on carpeting, never fear. Use a little white wine to dilute it. Clean the spot with cold water and a sponge. Then, sprinkle the stain with salt. Wait 10 minutes and then vacuum the area, with the stain disappearing.
5. Borax cleaning
Many homeowners have borax for cleaning. The product can be used for cleaning carpeting when you have a stain. Dampen the stained area and rub it with borax. Let it dry, then vacuum the spot or use a soapy water and vinegar solution of equal parts and let the area dry. This can work well to remove stains of all kinds.
6. WD-40 for ink
Spilled ink on your carpeting? Spray the spot with WD-40 and wait two minutes. Use a regular carpet cleaner or warm soapy water to clean the stain. Repeat the process until the stain is removed.
7. Hydrogen peroxide
If you cannot tell what a stain is, hydrogen peroxide can do the trick. Mix one teaspoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide with cream of tartar and rub the paste on the stain. Rinse the area and watch as the stain is gone.
Finally
These are just a few DIY treatment options you can use to clean your carpeting. Give these remedies a try when stains pop up on your carpeting to see the stains removed. For larger, dirtier areas, rely on expert trade professionals to ensure your carpeting is neat and tidy.
Source (Home-dzine/TheSpruce)
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