7 Secrets to Keep Your Carpet Looking New

Carpets get dirty—it’s a fact of life. But if you just let the problems pile up, those snags, spills, and everyday accidents can make your carpets look old and dingy. Follow these proper maintenance tips
and damage-control strategies to keep your carpeted floors cozy, clean, and looking like new for years to come.
1. Vacuum / Deep clean Regularly
It’s obvious that vacuuming keeps your carpets clean, but this common chore is also the key to ensuring they stay looking like new. Dirt has abrasive qualities, and when it’s repeatedly ground into the carpet by everyday foot traffic, it can actually erode the backing over time. Vacuuming once a week (twice a week in busy areas) can remove up to 75 percent of the dirt and debris and prevent your carpet from aging before its time.

2. Soak Up Spills
Spills are inevitable, but how you clean them makes all the difference. The most important carpet commandments to keep in mind are to work quickly and never rub. Dab cleaning solution onto the trouble spot immediately—the longer you wait, the harder it will be to remove the stain. Then, blot with paper towels or a clean cloth, as this gently puts a small amount of pressure on the liquid, helping to soak it up instead of letting it set in. Remember to blot from the outside in to prevent the spill from spreading.

3.Trim Snags

Carpets, particularly Berbers, are bound to snag eventually—especially if you have kids or pets. Rule number one: Never pull a snag. This will inevitably make the problem worse, as it’s likely that you’ll tear the carpet away from the backing. Instead, grab a pair of scissors and trim the snag at the base to prevent further damage.

4. Clean with Club Soda
If used correctly, club soda can become an essential (and natural) weapon to combat carpet stains. Whether you’re dealing with pet accidents, coffee, tea, or red wine, a healthy pour of club soda over the spill and a few dabs with a clean cloth should return your carpet to its original glory.

5.Monitor High-Traffic Zones

Hallways, carpeted stairs, and rooms that experience a lot of foot traffic need a little extra attention. You may want to consider strategically layering an area rug or runner as another form of prevention, as it’s much easier (and cheaper) to replace these temporary coverings when they become soiled from dirt or spills.
 —Anja Sonnenberg