The Most Common Asked Questions about Carpet and Rug Cleaning

If you just cleaned your carpet or you are thinking about hiring a cleaner, then you will most likely have a few questions about the process. Hopefully, our answers to some of the most common questions with carpet and rug cleaning will help you. 

When will it be dry?

Carpets can take anywhere from 8 to 24 hours to fully dry.  If it is humid outside, it may take longer.  Fans may help expedite the drying process by moving air around and wicking the moisture away.  If you can open the windows in your house that too can help speed up the process, but only if you are in a very dry climate. 

How soon can I walk on it?

As long as you aren't wearing shoes, almost immediately after the floors are cleaned.  It is recommended that heavy foot traffic be diverted around the cleaned floors until they are dry.  Flat bottomed slippers or booties are the best if you need to cross the floors right after cleaning.  Caution is needed when transitioning from a wet area to tile or wood.  The bottoms of your feet could be very slick. 

Will heating the house speed up drying?

Unless it is cold outside and you need to run your furnace anyway, it is not necessary.  In the summer you can run your air conditioning. If you are having problems with your air conditioner, have ambrose air come check it out. What matters is humidity and airflow when it comes to drying your floors.  Keep the temperature in your home at a comfortable level and turn on the fans.  Running the unit on the fan will not alter the temperature but will create air movement throughout the home and improve dry time. 

What do I need to do before getting them cleaned?

Generally, you should pick up loose items off the floor.  Toys, books and remotes should be put away before the cleaning crews arrive. Items that might not react well to moisture (stack of magazines, wood- footed coffee table) should be put up on other furniture or moved away from the cleaning area.  Vacuuming right before cleaning is always helpful. Call ahead and find out if you need to vacuum your floors or what you should do about your furniture.  You usually save money when the cleaners work primarily in the open areas. 

Will cleaning my floors make them dirtier faster?

This is a myth.  Proper cleaning removes all cleaning agents and detergents from the fibers.  As long as all residual cleaning solutions are removed, and the floors don't get dirty any sooner than they would normally with heavy foot traffic One thing to consider is re-applying a protector to the carpet.  Over time and with cleaning, the protector is removed.  These products really make a difference in the life of the carpet and the re-soiling. 

Help!  My carpet developed a bubble in it right after cleaning!

Carpet ripples or “bubbles” happens if a carpet isn't stretched properly.  It should go back down after drying.  Similarly, your carpets should not shrink due to cleaning either.  If you notice these things in the days following your cleaning, please contact the cleaning company who performed the service. 

My old rug has knots showing. Can those be trimmed to make it look new again?

No, don't cut the surface knots.  It is common to see those on an old handmade rug.  It is a part of the process to tie the two ends of the fabric together when it is in the loom.  When it was new, those knots were hidden away but time and traffic can bring them out.  Don’t trim them as doing so can damage your rug.  Instead, be happy that your rug has withstood the test of time.  A good cleaning though may restore some of the color and luster it once had. 

How can I maintain my floors after they have been cleaned?

It is best to use a good, quality vacuum to pull dirt and dust out of the carpet fibers. The frequency of vacuuming is so important.  It keeps fibers from crushing and removes the dirt and dust before it settles in the base of the carpet and the carpet pad Blot any spills with a towel or rag.  Never rub or scrub spills! Just like when you remove dirt from the wall, it is generally a good idea to refrain from using chemical spot removers, especially when cleaning accidents on rugs.  A 50/50 solution of water and vinegar and blotting with a towel or rag should be enough to prevent staining from spills and accidents. Ready for a cleaning? Great! Call us at 405-329-8999 and we can answer any other questions you may have and schedule a time that works best for you.

Answers to your carpet stretching questions.

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An affordable and comfortable flooring option is carpet. However, If you decide to use carpet in your home it won’t have the same lifespan as hardwood or stained concrete, but before you decide it is time to replace it, consider the benefits of carpet stretching to repair it. You should employ this strategy when you notice small ripples or areas of the carpet bunched together, not only because it is unsightly but also because it is a tripping hazard.

What causes carpet bunching or ripples?

Normal carpet wear, sliding around heavy furniture, playing with a pet or exceptionally high foot traffic can cause a carpet to bunch in some places or ripple. Installation or manufacturing mistakes can also result in these flaws. Carpet is made of four layers.The first layer is the yarn that you walk on. The second layer is the primary backing. The third layer is a secondary backing, and each layer is held together by a latex adhesive. Since the adhesive generally contains a type of clay made out of marble dust, it absorbs moisture and expands. When this happens, the expansion will cause a buckle. Applying new carpet in the winter can also increase the risk of ripples. When it is cold, the carpet backing is stiff and difficult to stretch. When the warm summer months approach, the backing will relax, and then bubbles will appear in the carpet. While the problem seems minor, if it is not addressed it can cause more extensive rippling and eventually need replacement.

Why consider carpet stretching

Carpet stretching can solve many issues with minimal expense. Stretching will help the carpet look flush again. It will also make the cleaning process more effective because quality cleaners and vacuums will pull the loose fabric causing more damage to the flooring.  Stretching will lengthen the lifespan because it pulls the underlying warp and it redistributes the patterns of wear. The process is fairly simple, and homeowners usually don’t need to remove all the furniture from a room.

How does it work?

Carpet cleaning professionals use a power stretcher for most of the work. A smaller stretcher, also known as a knee kicker, is used for tight corners. The padding tack boards are replaced to create a new base. After the excess carpet is removed, the flooring is secured against the wall with a staple gun. During the stretching process, it is possible to patch stains or holes in the carpet.

Who can help?

While it is possible to DIY a carpet stretching project, we recommend hiring a professional who has experience and the necessary tools that reduce the likelihood of mistakes, such as broken seams or additional damage to the material. If you have any other questions, Sooner Cleaning + Restoration can answer them, or hire us to tackle the project for you.

10 tips to maintain your carpet like an expert!

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Want to know how we would keep our carpets looking new and fresh? Here are ten tips that really make your carpet stay in great shape. It’s not as hard as you think.

1. Vacuum often, vacuum rightA clean carpet begins with vacuuming regularly. That means more than just running a Hoover over the carpet once or twice a month. Use the crevice attachments to get dirt and dust from around the room. Vacuum the entire space horizontally, and then again vertically. The more times you run it over the surface, the more dirt it removes. Don’t let the bag get more than half full or it won’t work as efficiently. It’s also not a race. Vacuum slowly so it has the chance to pick up all the dirt embedded below the surface to the carpet. Finally, adjust the height, so it works just right for your floor.

2. An extra layer helps your carpet go the extra mileThose high foot traffic areas in your home take a beating on a daily basis. Consider laying down a decorative rug to prevent premature wear on your carpet. Area rugs are a great way to brighten a room and display your unique style. You can purchase a new beautiful rug from https://www.southwesternrugsdepot.com/decor/. They can also help you cover up a worn spot and prolong your need to install a new carpet. Heavier rugs are less likely to bunch and create tripping hazards. Using a carpet pad can also help keep your new rug in place. 

3. Have a spill? Clean it quick.Time is crucial when it comes to cleaning up a mess. Don’t waste a minute when something spills onto your carpet. The secret is to dab, not scrub, believe these can help. Rubbing the spill just pushes the particles down further into the carpet threads. Each type of mess requires a different strategy. Know what works best for your current problem. It might be hydrogen peroxide, dish soap or other types of cleaning supplies. We also share our strategies to help you attack the most stubborn stains.

4. Wipe your feet and take off those shoesTake your shoes off at the door. Any dirt trapped in the sole of your shoes will be ground into the fibers of your carpet. Your shoes can also be very abrasive and breakdown the surface. Furthermore, shoes pick up all sorts of different substances that you certainly don’t want in your home and stuck in your carpet.

5. Conduct the occasional room redesignPlush carpets are great for filling a room with warmth and comfort. However, when you move your sofa after a few years, the damage is done. Rearranging a room takes time, effort and planning, but it protects your carpet from indentations that are impossible to remove. Rugs can also help with any major dents from heavy furniture.

6. Stretch it out.In addition to being unsightly, those ripples in the carpet can limit the lifespan of the surface. Humidity, moving heavy furniture or even an incorrect installation can cause your carpet to buckle. Ignoring the problem won’t make it go away. In fact, it will only get worse over time and may lead to your carpet creasing. The good news is SoonerCarpet can stretch it back out. into place.  Have questions about this process? We can answer them. (linking back to stretching blog).

7. Apply stain resistant productsNo surface is truly stain resistant, but some products can help you clean up messes a bit easier. Some carpets are created to be stain resistant, but that factory protection diminishes over time and especially in the traffic areas.  There are also protectants, which can be applied to all carpets at any time. for regular carpets. Carpet protectors like Scotchgard help prevent dirt and liquids from absorbing into the fibers as quickly. It can also prevent fading from sunlight. This is a good option to help you prevent long term damage to your carpet.

8. Install curtains or blindsWe are in the midst of a hot summer, and the sunlight can do more than just warm up your house. The carpet may be your favorite color, but those UV rays can cause it to fade in splotchy areas around your windows. Install curtains that block the sunlight during the morning and evening hours to protect the surface from direct light. You can also use window tinting that blocks any UV rays.

9. Change out the air filtersThe fibers in your carpet grab all the dust and dirt near it. If your air filter isn’t working the way hospital-grade air purifiers work, then your carpet will work overtime. That means it is bad for your air quality and your carpet. Change your air filters often to keep dust and dirt out of your floor.

10. Take time for a deep clean or just call us!Nothing quite does the job like a good deep clean. It is possible to rent equipment and do the job yourself, but hiring a professional has its perks.Our experience and superior equipment makes our cleaning ability much greater. We treat your carpet like our carpet every time we visit. Call us at 405.329.8999 to ask us how we can help your carpet look like new.

Stubborn Carpet Stains and How to Clean Them

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Life happens. If you have kids, pets or host parties, accidents and spills are inevitable. The good news is with a little time and a couple of strategies, there’s no reason to fret over messes that cause those stubborn carpet stains. 

Nail Polish

Maybe you’re running late for a big event or settling in for a relaxing evening. Either way, you decide to paint your nails. Despite taking several precautions, such as laying down a towel, the bottle tips over and the colorful liquid pours out onto the carpet. The new stain seems permanent, but taking quick action can remove the spill entirely.

Here is what you need:

· Soft cloth

· Rubbing alcohol

· Hairspray

· Hydrogen peroxide

· Nail polish remover

· Water

· Carpet cleaner

Take action:

Start by keeping the area damp with water, and begin blotting the spill without scrubbing or spreading it. Apply nail polish remover to a small portion of carpet under a piece of furniture or in the back of a closet to ensure it doesn’t remove the color. If it doesn’t damage the carpet then apply nail polish remover to the soft cloth and begin blotting it into the stain.

Apply rubbing alcohol or hairspray to the area to further help the stain removal process. Alcohol-based products act as a degreasing agent, effectively removing several ink stains. But, use it lightly – as it can cause colors to fade.

If the carpet is white, then hydrogen peroxide can help bleach the area. Once all the polish is removed, clean the area with mild soap or carpet shampoo, and press out the water.

Synthetic-Red Stains

Kool-Aid, tomato juice, red wine or other types of synthetic red stains are difficult, but not impossible to remove. These stains generally occur as accidents while hosting parties or when the kids get home from school. It’s important to know when this type of mess occurs, time is important.

Here is what you need:

· Soft cloth

· Salt or baking soda

· Hydrogen peroxide

· Carpet cleaner

· Soft soap

Take action:

Begin by blotting up the liquid, and then add cold water to dilute the liquid further. Apply baking soda or salt to the area to help absorb more liquid. Vacuum the stain and repeat until removing the entire stain. Using gentle soap or carpet cleaner can also help you clean.

Pet stains

Pets are members of the family, but new and untrained animals can unintentionally cause damage to carpets and the mess creates unpleasant odors too. So, what do you do when your puppy or kitten has an accident on the floor?

Here is what you will need:

· Paper towels

· Newspapers

· odor eliminator

· Cool water and carpet cleaner

Take action:

Soak up as much of the urine as possible with a thick layer of paper towels, and lay something heavy on top of the paper towels for added weight. The Humane Society explains that it’s important to neutralize the pet odor after the area is clean because the pet may make a habit of returning to the accident area.

Avoid using steam cleaners because the heat will ingrain the stain and odor by bonding the protein to fibers. Also avoid cleaning with strong chemicals, because it could encourage the animal to remark the area.

Consult the professionals

Removing stains immediately after they occur is important, but so is consulting professionals and maintaining the area with regular deep cleaning. Sooner Cleaning + Restoration provides customers water extraction services, water drying and carpet cleaning services. For a consultation or to schedule a cleaning, call 405-329-8999.

Carpet Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

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Having clean carpet is one of the most important parts of having a tidy, healthy home. Here are top five carpet cleaning mistakes you should avoid to achieve the cleanest carpet possible.

1. Waiting to Clean up the Spill

As soon as the dreaded spill or splat happens, move quickly to clean it up. Spills sink immediately into the fibers, making them more difficult to remove. If the spill is acidic, it could even eat away at the carpet fibers. While if the stain is left unattended for too long, the spill can seep into the carpet padding.

2. Not Testing Cleaning Products Prior to Use

In order to avoid potentially ruining your carpet, you should test the cleaning products in a discrete area. Before using them for the first time, take some time and apply them in the corner of the room or under a couch or rug. This simple, extra step can help avoid an even larger, unwanted stain in the middle of your room.

3. Never Hiring Professional Carpet Cleaners

If your carpets are well worn with frequent stains from children or pets, or if you are trying to get your home ready for an open house, a professional carpet cleaning could do the trick. Professional maids in Spring TX will remove most of the pesky little stain remnants, pet hair, and long lasting odors when cleaning.

4. Using Deodorizing Powder to Clean Spills

We all want our carpets and rugs to smell clean and fresh, but one common mistake that people make is using deodorizing powders to clean up spills. Deodorizing powders aren’t designed to clean up spills, so it is best to use it after the stain is removed. Make sure you don’t use the powder too often because vacuums aren't strong enough to pull out all of the powder from the carpet fibers and this can result in buildup in the carpet fibers.

5. Scrubbing Spills out of the Carpet

When the time comes to remove the dreaded stain out of your carpet, we all have a tendency to scrub the stains out as hard and as fast as we can. Even though you may be removing the stain, scrubbing your carpet untwists and fades the carpet fibers which causes permanent damage. The best way to remove a stain is to start by scraping up what you can with a spoon and then blot the stain with a towel. After the moisture is absorbed, use a stain remover.For more valuable information on cleaning your carpets, check out this rug cleaning guide from NW Rugs.