Carpet Deep Cleaning: When, Why & How

Deep cleaning your carpet is a vital part of caring for it. While many people dismiss deep cleaning as a lot of effort, it has countless benefits for your carpet. Here are the answers to common questions that people ask about deep cleaning.

When should I deep clean my carpet?

It might be tempting to leave deep cleaning your carpet until it's visibly dirty. However, your carpet can age much quicker when not properly taken care of, so you should stick to a regular deep-cleaning schedule. 

The average household should deep clean their carpets at least twice a year. However, you should consider deep cleaning more often if you have children, pets, people who smoke or people with allergies in your household – our recommendation is every four months. 

Why is deep cleaning carpet important?

If you vacuum regularly, you might be wondering whether deep cleaning matters. While hoovering does help your carpet, there are further benefits to regular deep cleaning.

Health

Invisible bacteria collects deep in the fibers of your carpet. Every time someone steps on your carpet, these bacteria are propelled into the room and can cause illness in you and your household. Deep cleaning carpet regularly minimises the levels of harmful bacteria living inside it. 

Mould prevention 

Mould spores become embedded in your carpet. When the right cold, wet conditions form, these grow into mould. Not only can this damage the carpet, but mould is also harmful to health. By deep cleaning correctly, you reduce the chance of those mould spores growing.

Carpet lifespan 

Carpets live longer when they are well cared for. Over time, the fibers can get crushed and need life breathing back into them. Deep cleaning can keep your carpet looking fresh and feeling soft underfoot. 

Odour

Carpets easily absorb dirt and other particles, which collect inside it. This can cause bad smells. While you might get used to these odours, guests will be hit by the unpleasant smell as soon as they enter your home! Deep clean carpet to eliminate this stench.

Allergens

Similar to the other substances mentioned, allergens like pollen and pet hair can become embedded in your carpet. If you have any allergy sufferers in your home, this can lead to symptoms that range from uncomfortable to dangerous. Help decrease allergy symptoms by deep cleaning. 

How can I deep clean carpet? 

Do it yourself 

Some households prefer to tackle deep cleaning carpet on their own. Here are the steps you should carry out. 

Patch test

People often underestimate the importance of carrying out a patch test, but every carpet reacts differently to different products. Test a small amount of product on a hidden area of carpet to make sure it doesn't cause damage or discolouration. 

Clear all the furniture 

Deep cleaning carpet involves the entire room, so you will need to access every bit of your carpet. All sorts of dirt collects under furniture, and deep cleaning is your chance to remove it. Move everything away, including any rugs. 

Vacuum

Start your deep clean by vacuuming. Do this once the same way that you usually do, then repeat more slowly and thoroughly. This will help agitate pollutants that are deeper in the carpet, bringing them to the surface to be vacuumed away on the second circuit. 

Apply cleaning solution

Avoiding using anything that you have not patch-tested, you can apply cleaning solution after vacuuming. There are many shop-bought options, but these can be unreliable so be careful what you choose. A homemade option is mixing one part white vinegar with two parts warm water, then using a spray bottle to apply it to your carpet. Let this solution sit for 5-10 minutes and then blot it away with a towel or cloth.

Make sure that you never saturate your carpet – this can take a long time to dry and cause long-term damage. Hiring a steam cleaner may seem like an easy option, but a wet carpet can promote mould growth. You should also never use bleach on your carpet, as it causes discoloration and even thinning.

Blot – don't scrub

Whatever cleaning product you use, never scrub it into your carpet. It can damage your carpet and drive the stain in further. Instead, gently press your cloth down in circular motions. 

Stains

If there are still some stubborn stains hanging on to your carpet, they may need more attention. Take a look at our other the NCCA blog for some tips on specific stains, or you can hire a professional carpet cleaner to tackle them.

Be patient

Deep cleaning your carpet can take time. It's important to pay attention to every area of your carpet, or you won't get all the benefits. 

Benefits of a professional carpet cleaner 

If you are nervous about taking on deep cleaning yourself, you can bring in an expert cleaner. There are many reasons why this might be the better option for you. 

Expert care

You might think that you save money by tackling your carpet yourself, but an inexperienced hand can lead to mistakes. You could find yourself having to call in a professional to fix it, or worse, buy a whole new carpet.

Handle stains without damage

Carpet cleaners have come across all kinds of stains. They are trained in the best ways to remove stains without taking colour with them. 

Save time 

Carpet deep cleaning takes a long time, and not everyone has spare time to set aside. Professional carpet cleaners take the task of deep cleaning carpet off your hands, letting you carry on with your day while they get everything done. 

Top-notch equipment 

Hiring all the right equipment for yourself can be pricey. Professional carpet cleaners have all of the equipment required to deep clean carpet, ensuring that you get a thorough clean.

Carpet deep cleaning by professional cleaners

For all the benefits of a professional deep clean, take a look at the National Carpet Cleaning Association (NCCA) directory. Every cleaner is insured, accredited and experienced with all kinds of carpets. 

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