Carpeting gets a bad rep. As you well know from house hunting, or will soon find out, wood floors are valued far more. While wood flooring may be, debatably, easier to maintain and keep a low allergen profile, it’s expensive to install or restore. Carpeting adds warmth, softness, and flair to a room. So let’s put the arguments against carpeting to rest. Here’s how to properly care for and maintain carpeting.
Shoes off - This one should be a rule no matter your flooring choice if you want to maintain a tidy home. With that said, prevent visible track lines along your home’s most common traffic patterns. Create a designated place for family members to place their shoes sets your household up for success for instilling a no shoe rule. Be everyone favorite host and keep a basket of fresh socks and sandals for guests who aren’t the shoeless type.
Vacuum frequently - Meaning at least once a week. Keep dirt, crumbs, and dander from becoming ground down into your carpeting. Investing in a robotic vacuum will allow you to schedule a few clean times each week without having to lift a finger. And with AI on the rise, you can now control most from your home; which means if you have unexpected guests swinging by you can send a signal to your vacuum to get to work whether you’re in bed, at work or running to the store to pick up items for dinner.
Spot clean properly - Knowing how to properly spot clean any spills or messes is critical. For example, never rub or grind down when cleaning always gently sweep in upward motions to clean up before stains set in. If you don’t have one already add a carpet cleaning kit to your list for your next shopping run. You’ll want cleaner, a scraper, a bristle brush and a microfiber cloth. And, perhaps most importantly, keep all of these items together and on hand. The last thing you’ll want is to dig through your cleaning closet like mad while a wine stain is happily settling in.
How to steam - To truly maintain carpeting you’ll want to plan to have it professionally steamed at least once a year. For DIY-ers skip using store-bought solutions designed to be mixed with the water. This might seem counterintuitive but they tend to leave behind soapy residue which further attracts more dirt. As you can imagine this creates an unnecessary codependent cycle that I have a hunch you’d prefer to skip! You will also want to be mindful of how much water you use as you clean; use caution to not use so much that the carpet can no longer truly dry fully. If this sounds like too much to keep in mind you’ll find hiring a professional well worth the yearly investment.
Not all home improvements cost thousands of dollars. Sometimes, it’s the little things that make the most impact. So, if you’re avoiding putting your house on the market because you know it needs work, or if you’re passing over the house in your budget’s sweet spot because you think it might be a money pit, check out these inexpensive options for adding to your property’s value.
$999 and under
Over time, a little change here, a little upgrade there and your home's value magically improves without breaking the bank. If you'd like a professional opinion about which updates and upgrades could add the most value to your home, schedule a consultation with a real estate professional.
