Professionals can take the hassle out of cleaning your carpet. They can save you time and frustration. However, there are a few things that you should do to make things easier for the carpet cleaners.
Easy Things to do Before the Carpet Cleaners Arrive
Vacuum Your Carpet
Cleaning the carpet will be a lot easier if you remove some of the dirt and debris. That is why it is important to vacuum before the carpet cleaners arrive. The carpet cleaners will have an easier time reaching the dirt and debris that is deep down in your carpet.
Remove Furniture From the Carpeted Area
Things like chairs, tables, plants and lamps should be removed from the area that is going to be cleaned. The clearer the area is, the easier it will be for the technician to clean your carpet. Ask your carpet cleaner about what types of furniture need to be removed from the area. Not only should you remove furniture from the area, but you should also remove fragile items.
De-clutter the Area
Professional cleaners have to use cords and heavy hoses to clean your carpet. De-cluttering the area will not only make things easier for your carpet cleaners, but it will also make it safer for the professionals to do their work. A cluttered area is a tripping hazard.
Clean Your Baseboards
The carpet cleaner’s job will not be harder if you do not clean your baseboards. However, it is still a good idea to clean them before the professionals arrive. Cleaning the baseboards will ensure that the carpet stays clean.
Make Room for the Carpet Cleaner
Carpet cleaners need to park as close to the door as possible so that they can get their equipment in your home. That is why you will have to move your vehicle from the driveway. The technicians will also be able to keep their equipment safe by parking close to your home.
Inspect Your Carpet
Your carpet cleaners will thoroughly inspect your carpet before any work is done. However, you should also do your own inspection. Take note of the areas that are stained. You should also take note of high traffic areas.
Make Arrangements for Your Pets
If you have pets, then you will need to make arrangements for them before the carpet cleaner arrives. You should put them in a non-carpeted area of the house with food, water and toys. You may also want to use a safety gate to keep your pets out of the carpeted area. Additionally, you can make arrangements for the pets to stay at a family member or friend’s house.
What to do After Your Carpet is Cleaned
Stay off of the Carpet
The carpet will have to properly dry before you walk on in it again. Walking on wet carpet will cause it to re-soil again. The carpet will also take a lot longer to dry if you walk on it after you get it cleaned. Furthermore, you can easily slip and fall if you walk on wet carpet.
Keep in mind that carpet drying times can vary. In many cases, carpet can dry in as little as 20 minutes. However, it may take much longer than this.
It is important to note that your carpet may swell up while it is drying. This is normal and will usually go away within 24 to 48 hours.
Use Warm air to dry the Carpet Faster
You can speed up the drying process by using warm air. If it is cold outside, then you should turn on your heater. You can open the window if the weather outside is warm. Make sure that you turn off the air conditioner if you open your windows. Additionally, you can use a ceiling fan to dry carpet.
Wait Until the Carpet Dries Completely Before Moving the Furniture
Moving the furniture too quickly can cause your carpet to soil again. Wait until the carpet completely dries before you move the furniture again. If the professional applied a carpet protector, then you will need to wait at least 24 hours before moving the furniture.
Vacuum
You should wait at least 24 hours before vacuuming your carpet. Vacuuming the carpet helps keep it fresh and beautiful.
