If you have carpet in your home, you are certainly aware that at times there are challenges when it comes to keeping it clean.

As you try to clean the spot where the dog dropped a piece of pizza he stole from the trash, or where your child dropped a glass of grape juice, you might be wondering if stain protectant aka stain guard is right for you and your carpet.

Let’s take a look…

Pros of Stain Protectant on Carpet

1. Durability: Stain protectants create a barrier on the carpet fibers, making them more resistant to spills, dirt, and stains. This can significantly extend the life and looks of your
2. Ease of Cleaning: Carpets treated with stain protectants are much easier to clean. Spills can be wiped up quicker before they set into the fibers and create stains.
3. Looks & Appeal: Regular use of stain protectants can keep carpets looking newer for longer. This is particularly beneficial in high-traffic areas where carpets are more prone to wear and staining.
4. Allergy Reduction: By preventing dirt and allergens from settling deeply into the carpet fibers, making them easier to vacuum up, stain protectants can help create a healthier indoor environment.

 Cons of Stain Protectant on Carpet

1. Cost: The initial application of stain protectants can be expensive, particularly for larger areas or if you choose an eco-friendly or non-toxic treatment. This can be a deterrent for some homeowners or businesses with tight budgets.
2. Temporary Solution: Stain protectants are not permanent and may require reapplication every 6 to 12 months, depending on the amount of foot traffic and the type of carpet. This ongoing maintenance can add to the overall cost.
3. Chemical Concerns: Some stain protectants have chemicals that can be harmful to the environment or to individuals with allergy or chemical sensitivities. Choosing an eco-friendly or non-toxic choice can ease this issue but might come at a higher price point.
4. Effectiveness: The effectiveness of stain protectants can vary based on the type of carpet and the nature of the stain. Some protectants might not work as well on natural fibers like wool compared to synthetic fibers like nylon.

Stain protectants on carpets offer serious benefits, particularly in terms of durability, ease of cleaning, and maintaining appeal. However, the costs, need for reapplication, potential chemical concerns, and variable effectiveness are important considerations. Weighing these pros and cons can help in making an informed decision about whether or not to use a stain protectant on your carpet.

By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

Causes and Solutions for Carpet Rippling aka Buckling

Carpet rippling, also known as buckling or wrinkling, is a common issue that can occur after cleaning a carpet. This phenomenon can be alarming, but understanding the causes and solutions can help address the problem.

Causes of Carpet Rippling

1. Moisture: During the cleaning process, the backing of the carpet can absorb moisture, leading to expansion and rippling.
2. Improper Installation: One of the primary reasons carpets ripple after cleaning is incorrect installation. If the carpet was not installed correctly, rippling can occur. This includes issues such as insufficient stretching during installation or using the wrong type of padding. A carpet that is not tightly secured to the tack strips is more prone to shifting and wrinkling.
3. Temperature and Humidity: Environmental factors like changes in temperature and humidity can cause the carpet fibers and backing to expand and contract. This is particularly true in regions with high humidity or if there are drastic changes in weather conditions.
4. Heavy Furniture: Moving heavy furniture across the carpet can cause it to stretch and ripple. This is often worsened after cleaning when the carpet is still slightly damp and more pliable.

How Carpet Rippling Goes Away

1. Material Properties: Carpets are designed to be flexible. The backing and fibers can expand when exposed to moisture and contract as they dry. This natural elasticity allows the carpet to return to its original shape once the moisture evaporates.
2. Tension and Weight: The weight of the carpet itself and the tension applied during installation can help the carpet settle back into place. Over time, as the carpet dries and the room returns to a stable temperature and humidity, the ripples can diminish.
3. Professional Intervention: Professional carpet cleaning and maintenance services are skilled at addressing rippling. Techniques such as hot water extraction are often followed by drying processes that minimize the risk of ripples.

Solutions to Carpet Rippling

1. Proper Drying: Ensuring the carpet is thoroughly dried after cleaning can help prevent or reduce rippling. More often than not, once the carpet is dry after cleaning, the ripples will go away.
2. Professional Stretching: The most effective solution for a continuously rippled carpet is to have it professionally re-stretched. Carpet stretching involves pulling the carpet tight and re-securing it to the tack strips along the edges. This process smooths out the ripples and restores the carpet to its original flat state.
3. Quality Installation: Prevention is always better than cure. Ensuring the carpet is installed correctly in the first place, with adequate stretching and proper padding, can prevent future rippling. Professional installation often includes a guarantee against issues like buckling.
4. Regular Maintenance: Regular vacuuming and avoiding excessive moisture can help keep the carpet’s integrity. When cleaning, it’s important to use the appropriate amount of water and ensure proper drying.

Carpet rippling after cleaning is a common but manageable issue. It is primarily caused by improper installation, moisture, and environmental factors. The rippling can go away naturally as the carpet dries and contracts back to its original shape. Professional re-stretching and ensuring proper installation and maintenance can help prevent and/or resolve this problem. Understanding the causes and solutions ensures carpets stay smooth, looking good, and long-lasting.

By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

Filtration soil, aka soil filtration, refers to the dark, grayish lines that appear on carpets, typically along walls, under doors, around baseboards, or near HVAC vents.

This issue occurs when air-carrying pollutants pass through or across the carpet, leaving behind dirt, dust, and other airborne particles. The air, seeking an escape route, is often forced through small gaps, such as the space between the carpet and the baseboard or under closed doors. As the air passes through the carpet fibers, it deposits tiny particles of dust, pollen, smoke, and other contaminants, which gradually accumulate and darken the carpet over time.

The common sources of these pollutants include:

1. Cooking oils
2. Smoke from cigarettes or fireplaces,
3. Dirt from outside,
4. Pet dander, and even the
5. General dust found in homes.

Poor ventilation and the presence of HVAC systems that circulate air can worsen the problem, leading to more noticeable soiling.

Fixes:

Removing filtration soiling can be challenging, but it is possible with the right approach. Here are some methods to address the issue:

1. Professional Deep Cleaning: Professional carpet cleaning services often have specialized tools and cleaning solutions designed to tackle these stubborn stains.
2. Targeted Spot Cleaning: For less severe areas, a specialized filtration soil remover can be applied directly to the affected areas. These products are designed to break down the oily and particulate residue that causes the dark lines.
3. Regular Maintenance: To prevent the buildup of filtration soiling, frequent vacuuming, especially along the edges and near ventilation points, is crucial. Using high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters in your vacuum cleaner can help capture finer particles.

What Not to Do:

When dealing with filtration soiling, avoid the following:

1. Using Harsh Chemicals: Over-the-counter carpet cleaners with harsh chemicals may damage the carpet fibers or cause discoloration, making the problem worse.
2. Scrubbing Vigorously: Excessive scrubbing can cause the fibers to fray or wear down, potentially spreading the soiling over a larger area and damaging the carpet’s appearance.
3. Ignoring the Source: Simply cleaning the carpet without addressing the root cause of the soiling, such as poor ventilation or gaps along the baseboards, will result in the stains reappearing over time.

Preventive measures, combined with careful cleaning and regular maintenance, are the key to keeping carpets free from filtration soiling and extending their lifespan.

By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

As carpet cleaning professionals, when our customers ask questions, cleaning related or not, we try to answer, using all our carpet knowledge, gained from years of experience. Lately, a hot topic seems to be damaged (torn) carpet and what can be done to fix it and prevent it in the future. So, we thought we might give you some hints and tips on this issue.

Discovering a tear or hole in your carpet can be alarming, especially if it’s in a highly visible area. Whether it’s due to accidental damage, pet claws, or general wear and tear, dealing with the damage promptly can prevent it from worsening and prolong the lifespan of your carpet. Here’s what you can do if you find a tear or hole in your carpet:

1. Determine the Damage: Before taking any action, carefully examine the extent of the damage. Is it a small tear or a larger hole? Understanding the severity will help decide the proper repair method.
2. Trim Loose Fibers: If the tear has resulted in loose fibers sticking out, carefully trim them with scissors to prevent further unraveling. Be cautious not to cut too close to the carpet backing, as this could weaken the structure.
3. Save Excess Material: If you have any leftover carpet from the original installation, save it for repairs. Having matching material on hand will ensure a seamless repair job.
4. Patch the Area: For small tears or holes, consider patching the damaged area using a piece of matching carpet. Cut a patch slightly larger than the damaged area and carefully insert it into place. Use carpet adhesive or double-sided carpet tape to secure the patch in position.

FYI: If you use leftover carpet from the original installation, it may not match 100% in the beginning. It will be bright and new, while the surrounding carpet isn’t. There are 2 things to help combat this: wait for the patched area to get some wear and tear on it, or get your carpet cleaned so it more closely matches the patch.)

5. Use a Repair Kit: Many hardware stores offer carpet repair kits having all the necessary tools and materials for DIY repairs. These kits typically include adhesive, a seam roller, and patching material, making it easier to mend minor carpet damage.
6. Seek Professional Help: If the damage is extensive or if you’re unsure about tackling the repair yourself, it’s best to seek assistance from a professional carpet repair technician. They have the ability and specialized equipment to seamlessly repair tears, holes, and other carpet imperfections.
7. Consider Replacement: In cases where the damage is extensive or if your carpet is nearing the end of its lifespan, replacement may be the most practical solution. Consult with a carpet installer to explore replacement options that best suit your needs and budget.
8. Prevent Future Damage: Once the repair is complete or if you opt for replacement, take proactive measures to prevent future damage. Trim pet nails regularly, avoid dragging heavy furniture across the carpet, and use protective pads underneath furniture legs to distribute weight evenly.

By dealing with tears and holes in your carpet promptly, you can restore its appearance and functionality, ensuring years of enjoyment and comfort in your home.

By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

Carpet beetles, small and inconspicuous insects, may seem harmless at first glance, but they can wreak havoc on your carpets and other household items if left unchecked. These pests are known for their uncontrolled appetite for natural fibers such as wool, silk, fur, and feathers. Despite their name, they don’t only infest carpets but can also inhabit other textiles, upholstery, clothing, and even food products.

Carpet beetles typically invade homes through openings around windows and doors, as well as through vents and utility pipes. Once inside, they lay their eggs in dark, out-of-the-way areas such as under furniture, along baseboards, and in carpet fibers. The larvae, which are the most destructive stage of carpet beetle life cycle, hatch from these eggs and begin to feed on organic materials within the home.

Infestations often go unnoticed until damage becomes noticeable. Signs of carpet beetle activity include irregular holes in fabrics, shed skins, and fecal pellets resembling grains of sand.

To effectively eradicate carpet beetles from your home, a combination of preventive measures and targeted treatments is necessary.

Here are some steps you can take:

1. Vacuuming: Vacuum your carpets, rugs, and upholstery often, paying special attention to areas where debris tends to accumulate. This helps remove eggs, larvae, and adult beetles, reducing the likelihood of infestation.
2. Seal Entry Points: Seal any gaps or cracks around doors, windows, and utility openings to prevent carpet beetles from entering your home.
3. Reduce Clutter: Decluttering your living space cuts hiding spots for carpet beetles and makes it easier to spot signs of infestation.
4. Wash and Dry Clothing: Launder clothing, bedding, and other washable fabrics regularly in hot water and dry them on high heat to kill any eggs or larvae present. Not all fabrics or clothes can tolerate hot water and high heat. These may need to go to the dry cleaner.
5. Store Items Properly: Store infrequently used clothing, blankets, and other textiles in airtight containers or garment bags to protect them from carpet beetles.
6. Use Insecticides: Consider using insecticides labeled for carpet beetle control in areas where infestations are severe. Follow all safety instructions and precautions provided on the product label.
7. Professional Help: If infestations persist despite your efforts, seek help from a pest control professional who can assess the situation and recommend proper treatment options.
8. More professional Help: If you used any kind of pesticide or insecticide on your carpet to resolve the situation, have your carpets cleaned. Residue from the chemicals can attract and capture dirt and debris, making your carpets look old and worn.

By following these guidelines, you can prevent and address carpet beetle infestations, protecting your carpets and other fabric items from damage. Consistent maintenance is the key to keeping these unwanted pests at bay.

FYI:

• Carpet beetles are found all over the U.S and the world but are more prevalent in warmer climates.
• While they prefer natural fibers like wool, cotton or silk, they will feast on synthetic fibers as well.

By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.