Time's Up: When To Replace Carpet

As an authority on carpet cleaning, we’re advocates of deep cleaning carpets rather than replacing them. However, nothing lasts forever, and there eventually comes a time when all carpets need replacing. 

Wondering whether you should replace or book in a deep clean? Here are some signs that your carpet might be nearing the end of its life.

Rips

Rips in your carpet are difficult to repair. Old carpets are more prone to rips, especially on stairs or high-traffic areas. Not only are they an eyesore, but tears can be a trip hazard and can gather lots of dirt over time. If you’re struggling to decide when to replace carpet, rips can make that decision easier.

Matting

If you chose a cosy, fluffy carpet but now it's flat and scratchy, it might be time to replace it. Some carpets can even start to shed their fibres, creating a mess for you to clean up. 

Water damage 

If you're unlucky enough to have a flood, this spells disaster for your carpet. It's very difficult to dry a completely saturated carpet, and it is likely to be irreparably damaged – not to mention the high likelihood of developing mould. 

Burns

It goes without saying that carpets should be replaced after a fire. However, household accidents like dropped cigarettes, irons and matches can also cause smaller burns and melted patches. If you've tried to clean and repair these but your carpet still looks damaged, a replacement may be warranted.

Fading 

Most carpets will fade over time, especially if they're in direct sunlight. Once your carpet reaches a certain age, it can be completely unrecognisable. At this point, some people choose to replace it with fresh carpet. Another option is professional cleaning, which may help restore some lost colour. 

Allergies

Over time, allergens build up deep in your carpet. They can be difficult to remove, but gradually release over time and make your family ill. Regular cleaning can prevent this, but if you've tried every cleaning option and you're still sniffly, a new carpet may be your solution.

Bad smell

Like allergens, bad smells can hide under the surface of your carpet and come back to haunt you. Not only is this unpleasant, but it can be a sign of growing bacteria that can impact your health. Replacing the carpet can help your house smell clear again. However, be sure to read our article on getting a musty smell out of your carpet.

Stains

Whether it's coffee, curry or a glass of wine, stains are an almost unavoidable part of life. They can be really stubborn, feeling like they've changed your carpet forever. Before you write off your carpet, it's worth asking a professional carpet cleaner to tackle stains – it might be salvageable!

Revive your carpet with a professional cleaner 

Still not sure when to replace your carpet? A professional carpet cleaner may be able to breathe new life into yours. While cleaning can’t restore a worn-out carpet, maintaining your carpet on a regular basis will help it live longer and keep it at its best. Most importantly, a thorough carpet cleaning is significantly cheaper than a replacement.

With the National Carpet Cleaning Association (NCCA), finding a trusted carpet cleaner takes a matter of minutes. Every NCCA carpet cleaner is accredited, experienced and insured, with contractors across the UK. So, you can find top-rated carpet cleaners in our directory, simply by entering your postcode.