How to Keep Carpets Clean During the Drought

Cape Town’s water crisis has left most South African’s more conscious of minimalising their water usage. For those living in the Mother City, it has been a daily struggle trying to perform basic household tasks while remaining water-wise.

At Top Carpets and Floors, we have many branches in and around Cape Town, which is why we understand the need to consider ways of conserving water that isn’t harmful to the environment. Keeping rugs and carpets clean, in particular, might prove to be challenging if you’re used to hosing them down in your backyard, but we are here to show you that there are far more effective ways of keeping them clean.

Clean Spills and Stains Up as They Occur

Keeping your carpet completely spotless is impossible because it is a part of your home that is meant to be “lived” on daily. Stains from drinks, foods, children and pets will inevitably occur and must be removed immediately – if allowed to set, they will be so much harder to get out. A carpet covered with stains that have accumulated over a long period will require a deep clean which involves the use of water and likely a hired professional.

Use Products That Require No Water

A commercial carpet cleaner is generally as easy as spraying it on, rubbing it in, and letting it dry. People have been using home remedies for stains for decades, and when done right this too can save you a ton of money. Cleaning general stains on a rug is as easy as mixing a paste out of equal parts white vinegar and baking soda and letting the acetic acid go to work. Shaving cream is another quick remedy for most stains. If you’re planning to vacuum, simply sprinkle some baking soda over your carpet to reduce unpleasant odours.

Vacuum at Least Once a Week

Dust and debris, when left for extended periods, can damage your carpets and rugs beyond repair. Thoroughly vacuuming your carpet once a week is an easy way to maintain a clean, healthy home. While vacuuming, make sure to go over all areas of the mat slowly to get as much build-up of dirt out as possible.

Protect Your Carpet

If your home has rooms with wall-to-wall carpeting, consider using rugs and runners on the areas that experience much traffic, such as doorways, at the foot of sofas and underneath dining tables. Ensure that these coverings are darker in colour and easily replaceable should they experience any wear and tear.

Go Barefoot

Wearing shoes on carpets and rugs is the fastest way to track dirt in from the great outdoors. Shoes also tread harder than bare feet and will cause more wear to your flooring. Leaving shoes at the door might seem an odd solution to some, but it is one of the best methods of keeping your carpet clean.

For our valued clients in Cape Town, we have some of the industry’s most well-trained professionals ready to offer advice and guidance on caring for rugs and carpets. We have several branches in and around Cape Town including in Brackenfell, Parow and Crest Plumstead that offer exclusive products and premium flooring solutions. Contact your nearest Top Carpets and Floors today for a quote.