We’ve been in the carpet cleaning business for a long time, and we’ve heard it all – including all the misconceptions people have about cleaning their carpets. Here we will debunk the top seven myths of carpet cleaning.
1. Cleaning my carpets will make them get dirty faster.
This may be true IF you didn’t hire a professional or that “professional” didn’t do the job correctly. That’s because some methods can leave behind sticky residue and soil, which means that indeed, improper cleaning can make your carpeting get dirty faster. But if you hire a pro, there are no sticky residues and your carpet will stay cleaner for longer.
2. Steam cleaning causes mold or mildew to grow.
Again, this is true if you don’t go with a professional or allow for ample drying time. Here at 1st Class Carpet and Upholstery, our machines can dry your carpets within six to eight hours. Generally, mold can start growing within 48 hours if the carpets are still wet after that time.
3. Vacuuming too much will damage the carpet
Modern carpeting can withstand a lot of vacuuming. However, there are some vacuums out there that are too aggressive for every-day use. Do your research before buying a vacuum. Vacuuming once a week is sufficient in most homes, but high-traffic areas may need daily vacuuming.
4. Baking soda will remove odors from my carpet.
This method tends to only masks odors without removing the source. Baking soda will absorb some of the odors, but doesn’t get rid of the odor’s source. It’s very hard to vacuum out or clean up all the left-over powder, and eventually it will cause friction and wear, resulting in permanent damage to your carpet. And the smell will probably return anyway.
5. Carpeting causes allergies.
Dust, dander, and soil can settle into your carpet and remain there if not regularly maintained. The key here is maintenance. Regular vacuuming and carpet cleaning can remedy this just fine. Tearing out all your carpet is not the solution. Why? It doesn’t change the amount of dust, dander and soil invading your home. Ask yourself: where does all that go if you don’t have carpeting any longer? It settles on the floors, air, beds, walls — basically anywhere it wants.
6. My carpets aren’t that old so they don’t need to be cleaned.
If your carpet’s just a few years old, you may not think it needs a professional clean. However, this is more than enough time for your carpet to be dirty on the inside where you can’t see it – even if it still looks new. In fact, carpet is designed to hide dirt and soil, but by the time that dirt is visible, the damage has already been done. As a rule of thumb, you should get your carpets cleaned at least once a year.
Pay attention to your warranty. When you buy new carpet, it states within your warranty that it has to be cleaned either once a year or every 18 months, or your warranty will be void if you fail to get it professionally cleaned.
7. I can use any old cleaner to remove stains.
This myth can prove disastrous to your carpeting. Many of the big brand name stain removers actually attract soil and can ruin your carpet. It’s best to ask your carpet cleaning company which products are the safest to use when you need to clean a stained area in between professional cleanings.
Contact 1st Class Carpet Cleaning & Restoration Services
Now that we’ve busted the top seven myths about carpet cleaning, you can hire us with confidence. To get a free quote on carpet cleaning in Michigan, call us today at (248) 491-3088.
