How to Clean Carpet the Right Way

Carpets are an investment, and while most people have a love-hate relationship with them, there’s no denying that they add beauty and style, soften slips and falls, and provide warmth and comfort to the place.

How to Clean Carpet the Right Way

Unfortunately, they also tend to soak up stains, allergens, dirt, dust, debris, and grime from shoes, spills, and pets better than anything else. 

Vacuuming and spot and deep carpet and rug cleaning are crucial to remove stains, odors, and allergens, prevent dullness and wear out, and extend their life while keeping them looking new.

If your latest accident has you googling “how to clean a carpet,” you’ll be happy to know that there is a stain remover, such as Vanish, known to provide high-quality, effective, and professional carpet and rug cleaning results in no time!

This article describes how to clean carpet and rug correctly, utilizing Vanish Oxi Action Carpet Pre-Treat Spray and Vanish 3 in 1 Carpet Shampoo to remove stains and spot-treat problem areas.


How often do you clean the carpet 

Vacuum carpets regularly, at least once a week, and more frequently if you have pets or kids. Spills and stains must be treated immediately using a professional stain remover, such as Vanish, to help extend the life of your carpet.


 Vacuum your carpet

Before you begin the carpet or rug cleaning procedure, vacuum the carpet thoroughly with a vacuum cleaner with strong suction power. 

Alternatively, if a vacuum cleaner is unavailable, utilize traditional tools such as a broom, carpet rake, or carpet sweeper to effectively prepare the surface for cleaning.


Stain removal from carpet (deep cleaning)

If you don't have a specialist steam cleaner machine, you can still clean your carpet using Vanish 3-in-1 Carpet & Upholstery Shampoo

This stain remover deepens your carpet to remove stains, neutralize odors, soften and condition the fibers, and deliver extra freshness and fragrance. 


Follow the steps below to clean your carpets by removing stains and fighting unpleasant odors.

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Wipe out the excess moisture using a paper or cotton towel. 

  2. Mix 1 part Vanish 3-in-1 Carpet & Upholstery Shampoo with 9 parts cool water (max temperature 40˚) and whisk the solution into a foam. 

  3. Apply the foam evenly on the stain using a clean colorfast brush or sponge. 

  4. Do not make the carpet overly wet. 

  5. Allow it to dry and vacuum away. 

For isolated stains: 

  1. Pour Vanish 3-in-1 Carpet and upholstery Shampoo onto the stain using the cap. 

  2. Leave for 5 minutes. 

  3. Gently rub away with a clean, damp, colorfast cloth.

Fortunately, stain-removing products like those in the Vanish range can help remove tough carpet stains, whether fresh or dried. Read our product guide for carpets to make your carpet as good as new.


 Stain spot cleaning from carpet

You may encounter occasional stains or spills that leave unsightly, set-in marks that no deep cleaning alone can remove. 

For such scenarios, use Vanish Oxi Action Carpet and Upholstery Spray, which always produces amazing, toughest stain removal results! Here’s how it works: 

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Wipe the affected area with an absorbent cloth or paper towel.

  2. Spray the Vanish Oxi Action Carpet and Upholstery Spray onto the stain and leave for 1 to 5 minutes.

  3. Wipe again with a clean cloth or paper towel.

  4. Repeat as many times as necessary.

  5. Lastly, rinse the rug with clean water and blot dry with towels or allow it to air dry.


How to clean a rug

The steps to clean a rug depend on what it is made of. If the rug is made of the same material as a carpet, simply use Vanish 3-in-1 Carpet and Upholstery Shampoo and follow the steps below: 

  1. Vacuum the rug thoroughly to collect loose dirt, dust, and debris. 

  2. Spot treat any stains with Vanish Oxi Action Carpet and Upholstery Spray.

  3. Mix 1 part Vanish 3-in-1 Carpet and Upholstery Shampoo with 9 parts cool water (max temperature 40˚) and whisk the solution into a foam. 

  4. Apply the foam evenly on the stain using a clean colorfast brush or sponge. 

  5. Avoid excessive scrubbing and making the rug overly wet. 

  6. Rinse the rug with clean water and blot dry with towels or allow it to air dry.


FAQs

What is the average lifespan of a carpet?

The average expected lifespan of a carpet is five to fifteen years. However, the actual lifespan depends on the type of carpet and usage. 

Why is it important to clean the carpet regularly?

Regular carpet cleaning is important to remove dirt, dust, debris, allergens, and stains to ensure a clean and healthy indoor environment with low health risks. 

Can I use homemade cleaning solutions to clean my carpet?

Homemade cleaning solutions made out of vinegar, baking soda, or dish soap can effectively clean carpets. However, homemade cleaners can often create problems of color fading or changes in the carpet texture. Therefore, it is best to rely on a professional and top-notch stain remover, such as Vanish, for excellent carpet cleaning results.