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DIY Vs Professional Carpet Cleaning: What Is The Right Choice?

Jul 1, 2022 | Tips

Carpet cleaning is a must when it comes to maintaining a good environment at home. Though carpets are inanimate objects, they provide numerous benefits and do their part in making our homes look and feel more welcoming.

Maintaining a clean household is vital because many indoor pollutants are not only harmful but also trigger severe allergies and asthma. A clean carpet provides insulation against dirt, dust particles and allergens that might be present in the air. Regular carpet cleaning is also essential for the health and well-being of the family.

Junk and dirt accumulate in carpets, which in turn causes it to attract more dirt and debris like particles from shoes, pet hair, or anything else on your floor. Dirt builds up over time, creating scuff marks and general wear.

To keep your carpet’s original colour, you should opt for a professional carpet cleaning service regularly (at least once every day) to remove the dust that gets ground into the fibres during use. 

Professional Carpet Cleaning Vs. DIY: Learn The Differences?

DIY Cleaning

Homeowners who want to clean their carpets themselves are likely to rent or buy cleaning devices or equipment. Purchasing/renting cleaning equipment is less expensive than employing professional cleaners. But to choose which is the best option, we must consider more aspects than just cost savings.

Pros

Because your cleaning tools can rapidly clear up the dirt your dogs leave on your carpets, DIY cleaning is more practical for pet owners. Instead of hiring professional cleaners, homeowners can see significant cost savings by renting or buying cleaning equipment. The savings will mostly come from lower labour costs.

Cons

DIY cleaning lacks labour; while you may request assistance from family members, your cleaning would still be inconsistent.

The DIY cleaning process takes up your valuable time. Further, rental equipment is given for a specific period, you may wind yourself hurrying the cleaning.

Homeowners that use homemade carpet cleaners aren’t aware of how much cleaner must be used. Many of them use excessive chemical applications, which harm the carpets. Similar to incorrect cleaning methods, wear to the carpets may also result from them.

Professional Cleaning

Many homeowners hire professional carpet cleaners at Liberty Lake instead of doing the carpet cleaning themselves. Although these services may be more expensive for homeowners than do-it-yourself methods, the investment is worthwhile.

Pros

People who clean carpets for a living have dealt with every conceivable kind of carpet stain and have years of knowledge in the field. Nobody else is more qualified to handle the stains on your carpet than they are.

Professional cleaners use specialist equipment that is more powerful at cleaning than the industrial cleaning supplies that individuals may rent or buy. This results in dryer and cleaner carpets than you could achieve on your own.

The convenience comes last and is the most crucial. You would have to sit back and unwind while the experts took care of the task, saving you valuable time.

Cons

It is already known that hiring cleaners is more expensive than doing your own carpet cleaning. By merely having the heavy traffic areas of your home or place of business, such as the hallway, entrance, etc., cleaned, consumers may be able to save money on professional dry cleaners.

Hire The Best Carpet Cleaners at Liberty Lake

Clean-Master is a professional company offering the best carpet cleaning in Liberty Lake, having specialised carpet cleaners on their team. They provide the best cleaning service at competitive prices. You can contact us anytime to book an appointment or for more information, as we are available 24/7 to help our valuable customers.

Water Based Stains vs. Oil Based Stains

Types of water-based carpet stains.
Types of oil-based carpet stains.

Water stains include

Coffee, tea, ketchup, soda, juice, milk, blood, alcoholic beverages, ink, among others. In this article we’ll review coffee, ink, blood, and red wine as the primary water based stains.

Oil stains include

Chocolate, grease and oil, margarine, salad dressings, mayonnaise, makeup, deodorants, and dressings. We’ll review oil and chocolate as the most common oil-based stains on your carpet.

Coffee Stains

Coffee spills are stubborn. They’re not just hard to remove because of their dark color, but because these stains contain dark pigments that adhere to carpet fibers. Coffee, tea, and soda have a compound called Tannin, that gives this beverage the pigment and makes stains even harder to remove. Additionally, we tend to add sugar, milk, half and half, or cream into our coffee, which makes it even more challenging.

Coffee Stains<br />

How to remove them

Use an acidic stain remover. A chemical with a pH between 3-4 is highly effective for removing Tannin-based stains from your carpets. Start by blotting the fresh stain with a dry cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible. Then apply the cleaner, which breaks down the particles in the stain. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, allow it to dry, and watch the stain disappear.

Blood Stains<br />

Blood Stains

Perhaps the most accidental type of carpet stain is blood. It’s also one of the most stubborn stains to remove. Blood is particularly difficult to clean because of the chemical properties in it. When blood is exposed to oxygen, it clots. Blood is also protein-rich, and proteins bind tightly to carpet fibers. Then, the iron in blood oxidizes, causing the stain to darken over time.

How to remove them

Cleaning a fresh blood stain is easier than cleaning one that’s already dried. Take safety precautions first, especially if the blood you’re cleaning is not yours! Apply cold water to the stain and dab it with a dry cloth to absorb as much of the stain as possible. Your medicine cabinet might even come in handy with some Hydrogen Peroxide solution if the stain is proving to be stubborn. If the stain does not come out with traditional methods, you might want to get your hands on some heavy duty carpet cleaning solutions (or a professional carpet cleaning service).

Red Wine Stains

The key to success for removing red wine stains from your carpet is how quickly you take action. They’re one of the hardest spills to clean and can seep into your carpet fabric really fast. Chromogens–the naturally occurring dyes of red wine and grape juice—spread out and cause a lot of damage, so the longer you let them sit, the harder they will be to wash.

Red Wine Stains

How to remove them

The simple rules for red wine carpet stains are: Do not scrub and do not wait! A dry substance like baking soda, dry soap, or table salt will pull the color out of the stain. Spotting chemicals also work really well, but you have to make sure to only spot the surface and not rub it around. That will only help the stain settle and dry. If the stain dries and settles, you might have to turn to other products like Hydrogen Peroxide.

Oil and Grease Stains<br />

Oil and Grease Stains

Oil and grease stains are notorious opponents in the world of carpet cleaning. Composed of long-chain hydrocarbon molecules, they are hydrophobic, meaning they repel water. This characteristic makes it difficult for regular soaps and water-based cleaners to penetrate these stains effectively.

How to remove them

Getting to the oil stain earlier will increase your chances of removing it. Fresh stains haven’t had time to set into the carpet fibers, making them easier to handle. Start by blotting the area with a clean, dry cloth to absorb as much of the oil or grease as possible. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda or cornstarch on the stain—both household items are effective at absorbing oil and grease. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes before vacuuming the area thoroughly.

If the stain persists, apply a solution of one-part white vinegar to two parts water and blot. Rinse thoroughly with warm water. For dried stains, you might need a stronger approach like a degreaser.

Paint Stains

Paint is particularly unique and challenging to remove. Water-based paint, also known as latex paint, is made up of pigments and resins suspended in water. On the other hand, oil-based paint contains pigments and resins suspended in a solvent (oil). These two types of paints behave differently when they come into contact with your carpet, and thus, require different strategies for removal.

Paint Stains<br />

How to remove them

For wet water-based paint, blot the area with a clean, damp cloth before the paint has a chance to dry. Then, mix a solution of one cup of warm water with 1/2 teaspoon of dish soap and gently dab the stain. Rinse with clean water and blot dry. For wet oil-based paint, blot as much of the paint as you can without rubbing it into the carpet fibers. Then, carefully apply a small amount of turpentine—a common household item if you enjoy painting—and blot until the stain lifts. Remember to rinse thoroughly and dry.

If the paint has dried you might need a heavy-duty carpet cleaner or turpentine, in the case of dry oil paint to lift the stain. If the spills are particularly difficult to remove, turning to a professional carpet cleaner might save you from a giant headache.

Find products

  • The Bac-Out Carpet Stain + Odor Remover Foaming Action Spray is a popular choice for all your stain removing needs. Buy it on their website for only $13.99.
  • Amodex Ink and Stain Remover will take care of all those pesky ink stains. Get their starter kit for $20.00.
  • For an accidental wine spillage, Wine Away Red Wine Stain Remover is a great choice. Get a two-pack for $22.00 on their website.
  • For stubborn oil stains, Superclean Cleaner Degreaser will dissolve grease, oil, tar, and much more from your carpets. Buy one gallon for $10.32 at Walmart or visit your nearest store.
Preventing Carpet Stains<br />

Preventing Carpet Stains

While we’ve covered how to tackle various types of stains, prevention is undoubtedly the most effective strategy. Here are some key ways to help keep your carpets stain-free:

  • Regular Vacuuming: Consistent vacuuming removes dust and dirt particles that can cause wear and tear on your carpet fibers, potentially making them more susceptible to stains.
  • Immediate Spot Cleaning: When spills happen, act fast. Blot spills right away to prevent the liquid from seeping into carpet fibers and drying into a stain. Remember, don’t rub or scrub as it can push the spill deeper into the carpet.
  • Use Rugs or Runners: Place rugs or runners in high-traffic areas, especially if food or drinks are often served there.
  • Stain-Resistant Treatments: Consider applying a stain-resistant treatment to your carpets. These will repel spills, block stains, and resist soiling, offering an added layer of protection.
  • Carpet Protectors: For lighter carpets, consider using plastic carpet protectors in high-traffic or spill-prone areas. These can be especially useful in children’s rooms or home offices.
  • Know Your Carpet: Different carpet materials react differently to stains. Understanding your carpet’s material and its specific care instructions can help you better prevent and treat potential stains.

Know Your Stains and Know Your Carpet!

Now that we’ve covered the most basic types of carpet stains, you’re ready for any accidental spillages. Coffee, red wine, blood, oil, grease, and paint all have particular challenges that make removing stains more difficult. Remember, the best method to completely vanish those stains from your fabrics is quick thinking! By regularly vacuuming, quick dabbing, rug runners, special carpet treatments and protectors, you can prevent permanent stains on your carpet. For hard-to-remove stains, professional carpet cleaning companies like Clean-Master are here to help!

Professional Carpet Cleaners for all Types of Carpet Stains!

For those stubborn stains that won’t come off, or for professional advice on carpet cleaning, Clean-Master is your trusted partner in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Don’t let your stains sit for too long. Call (208) 667-2702 and schedule an appointment. Your carpet will be free of stains with our carpet cleaning and stain removal service!

Professional Carpet Cleaners for all Types of Carpet Stains!<br />