TIPS FROM TIM: A Guide to Vacuuming

As I mentioned in my post “How to Maximize the Life of Your Carpet” the number one best way to ensure a long life for your carpet is to VACUUM, VACUUM, VACUUM! And do it often! When you vacuum your carpet, you are effectively removing loose soil from the surface before it is ground into the carpet pile. So simple! However, there are some things to keep in mind when vacuuming – and vacuum shopping – to make sure you are giving your carpet the best care.

1) Frequent vacuuming is key. As a general rule of thumb, vacuum high-traffic areas daily, twice weekly for medium-traffic areas, and once a week for low traffic areas.

2) Empty your container or replace your bag when it’s no more than 2/3 full to keep it from spilling over.

3) The Carpet and Rug Institute advises to “use slow, repetitive front-to-back motions in an overlapping sequence. A quick once over doesn’t do much.” On the other hand, don’t press down or make too many passes over the same spot. Instead, move slightly to the left or right about every four strokes.

4) With more and more high-suction vacuums coming onto the market, keep in mind that these are not best for thick, high-pile carpets. When shopping, look for a vacuum that is lightweight with an adjustable beater bar and efficient airflow.

5) And as a general rule of thumb when it comes to cleaning, go from top to bottom. That way, when vacuuming is the last thing you do, you’re sure to pick up any dust that has fallen as a result of cleaning walls, blinds, etc.

Happy vacuuming!

-Tim

Tim Walts, Operations Manager at Carpet Plus, was recently granted the designation of Certified Flooring Executive (the highest status conferred by the flooring industry!) by the World Floor Covering Association. Tim worked as an installer for over 10 years and holds top certification from the Certified Floorcovering Installers Association, Inc.