Often referred to as shag or plush carpets, they provide unmatched comfort and elegance to every home. Every step feels like you’re walking on a cloud because of their silky deep threads.
However, maintaining that perfect look is difficult sometimes. Keeping a regular cleaning ritual is crucial as these carpets often retain dirt, dust, and even bothersome allergens deep inside their thick layers.
Not to worry, though. Your thick pile carpet will look and feel as when you first bought it with some tips.
What Are Thick Pile Carpets
They are made of deep, velvety strands that give off a rich cushioning effect.
The height of the carpet fibres, referred to as the pile, is usually longer than other types of rugs. They are usually placed in living rooms and bedrooms as they are considered more comfortable. However, compared to low-pile or loop carpets, they are high-maintenance carpets.
They also help reduce noise and offer great insulation, thereby improving the warmth and quietness of your house. Ironically, the characteristics that draw people to these rugs are also what makes them somewhat difficult to clean.
The dense fibres can easily house dirt, dust, pet hair, or allergens. This, over time, not only diminishes the look of your carpet, but it also impacts the a
Vacuuming: The Key to Daily Maintenance
Regular sweeping is the key to preserving your thick pile carpets.
A typical hoover doesn’t always eliminate all debris. Due to the dense piles, there are often specialised ways of cleaning.
Choosing the correct vacuum for thick pile carpets is absolutely vital. Choose a model with strong suction and adjustable height settings. Ideally, pick one without a rotating beater bar as this can be too harsh on the fibres and result in the mat down or fraying.
Next, if your hoover has a medium setting, gently adjust it to low. Strong suctions can tug at the fibres and damage the carpet. In addition, thick pile carpets need more than a fast once-over. Hoover slowly and in different directions.
Since they can rapidly fill up your Hoover bag or bin, make sure the bag or bin is regularly emptied.
Spot Cleaning: Handling Stains and Spills
Stains and spills are inevitable regardless of your level of caution.
Managing these mishaps needs a quick reaction. If neglected, thick pile carpets become even more difficult to clean since they can absorb spills far down into their fibres.
The first rule in spot cleaning is to blot, never rub. Rubbing can damage the fibres and drive the spill further into the carpet. Clean up as much of the spill as you can with a fresh white cloth or paper towel.
For most stains, a lukewarm water and mild dish soap combination works miracles. Steer clear of strong chemicals as they can discolour your carpet. Moreover, always test the carpet cleaner on a small area first.
Afterwards, rinse the spot with fresh water to eliminate any soap residue and blot dry. Set a fan close by to hasten the drying process if possible.
Always remember to avoid walking on the damp ground until it completely dries to avoid the accumulation of more dirt or mould.
Deep Cleaning Your Thick Pile Carpet
One time or another, your carpet will need a deep-cleaning session. You don’t have to sacrifice its exquisite texture during the process though.
One of the most efficient ways is steam cleaning, also called hot water extraction. This method injects hot water with a cleaning solution deep into the carpet fibres. To avoid mildew or mould, let the carpet air dry completely.
Dry cleaning is another great method. This approach uses certain cleaning powders or foams, then a rotating machine applies the powder into the carpet in equal portions. This is a great option although it’s considered less thorough compared to steam cleaning.
Contacting a carpet cleaning company might be a smart investment if your carpet is highly stained or too dull. Since professionals have modern tools and cleansers, they can revive your carpet without any risk of damage.
Preventative Measures For Protecting Your Carpet
Prevention is better than cure when it comes to thick pile carpets.
Place rugs or runners in high-traffic areas to protect your carpet from too much wear, for instance. This is particularly helpful in hallways, doors, or places where kids and pets usually hang about.
Shoes drag in dirt, dust, and even small stones that could get entangled in your carpet. Develop a habit of taking off shoes at the door, then inspire visitors to follow suit. You can also buy some shoe covers for when people come over.
In addition, use protective pads as the heavy furniture can leave off long-lasting marks. You can also rotate it once in a while to ensure equal fading or wear. Otherwise, your carpet will have irreversible damage in places and will be ruined.
Moreover, invest in carpet protectors that safeguard from spills. These treatments build a barrier on the carpet fibres, which facilitates the clean-up of mishaps before they become permanent.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Although cleaning thick pile carpets is hardly rocket science, there are a few typical issues that cause damage:
- Steer clear of over-wetting your carpet by not soaking it entirely with water, particularly in deep cleaning as they take a long time to dry.
- Not vacuuming your carpet regularly allows dirt to sink into the pile where it can cause wear and tear.
- Use DIY carpet cleaners carefully. While homemade cleaners can be useful, some ingredients such as vinegar or baking soda can be too strong for delicate fabrics.
Conclusion
Although thick pile carpets are definitely more demanding when it comes to maintenance compared to other types, it is worth it.
Whether you are addressing a difficult stain or daily upkeep, keep in mind that consistent care is key. With the right tools and methods, your carpet will look as good as new for years. And when in uncertainty, don’t hesitate to bring in the pros—your carpet deserves it!
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