Are the do it yourself type of cleaners (home-style or the type you would rent from the grocery store) good for or harmful to carpeting?
A. These units are okay if they are used for spot cleaning or touching up. Operation instructions must be followed. If you desire a thorough cleaning, you will not be satisfied with the results. Most often over-wetting occurs or too much detergent is used leaving a residue. This causes the carpet to re-soil quickly and the carpet becomes stiff. Q. How often should a carpet be cleaned? A. The largest fiber producers (DuPont and Monsanto) and carpet manufacturers (Shaw and Mohawk) recommend cleaning every 12 to 18 months. The EPA recommends more frequent cleanings for allergy sufferers. In our area with the existence of peat dust, mold spores, and pollens, cleaning the carpet once a year is usually sufficient. Q. How important is it to properly maintain your carpet? A. It is very important to maintain your carpet. Regular vacuuming (2-3 times a week) and annual professional carpet cleaning will increase the life of your carpet. This will also enhance the performance of your carpet. If pr
