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Nicole Moorehead

5 Tips for Maintaining Your Carpets Between Cleanings

Updated: Dec 10, 2024

There’s nothing quite like the soft feel of clean carpet and the freshness in the air after a professional steam cleaning. So, how can you keep that freshly cleaned feeling going for as long as possible? These five tips are perfect for maintaining your carpets between cleanings—and they’re great for newly installed carpets too!


*These 5 tips are also great for all newly installed carpets*


1. Take Off Your Shoes


This tip is a game-changer. Shoes bring in dirt, bacteria, and debris that grind into carpet fibers, causing damage over time.


Many households have moved away from the traditional "Leave your shoes at the door" rule, but it’s time for a comeback.


Create a designated shoe area near your entryway to make it easier for family and guests to comply. Pinterest is full of clever storage ideas to keep this area neat and stylish. Plus, it’s a great excuse to treat yourself to a cozy pair of indoor slippers!



boy removes shoes before walking on to carpet
Removing shoes before entering your home reduces debris


2. Vacuum Regularly


Regular vacuuming is essential to remove surface dirt, pet hair, crumbs, and dust before they embed deeply into the carpet fibers. But what’s "regular"?


For most homes, once a week is the minimum.


For high-traffic areas like entryways, hallways, and stairs, aim for two or three times a week. It might seem like a chore, but this habit pays off in keeping your carpet looking and feeling fresh.


Person vacuuming their living room in Beaverton Oregon
Vacuuming regularly helps keep your carpets healthy

3. Address Stains Immediately


Accidents happen, but how you respond makes all the difference. For food spills or pet accidents, here’s a simple process:


  1. Pour a glass of water (about 8 oz) over the stain to dilute it.

  2. Use a thick towel to blot the area firmly for 30–45 seconds.

  3. Avoid rubbing the stain, as this can push it deeper into the fibers.

  4. If some discoloration remains, repeat the process once more.


Quick action prevents stains from setting and keeps your carpet looking its best.




4. Allow Airflow to Prevent Filtration Lines


This might sound funny, but stick with me. Air is always moving through your home, and under your door ways. Sometimes there is not much space between the bottom of your door and the top of your carpet.


In summer your doors will expand because of the heat, and you’ll notice they fit tighter. This means the bottom is also coming closer to the carpet. Why does it matter? Your carpet is made of fibers that will act like a filter.


As the air passes through that space those fibers will catch the small dust particles. This can cause what’s called filtration lines, and they look like dark dirt stains. And that’s because they are. Filtration lines also happen when you have cold air returns in your floor with central air heating.


So if you open your doors, when possible, it means the air can flow freely and not only through that small space to cause lines.





5. Use Area Rugs and Runners


Protect high-traffic areas like entryways, hallways, and living room paths with area rugs or runners.


These extra layers take the brunt of daily wear and tear, shielding your carpet from dirt, spills, and footprints.


Choose rugs with non-slip backings to keep them in place and vacuum them regularly to prevent dirt buildup. Bonus: they’re also an easy way to refresh your décor!





The Importance of Professional Steam Cleaning


Even with the best care, every carpet needs a professional deep clean every 12 to 18 months. Steam cleaning removes dirt, allergens, and grime that regular maintenance can’t tackle.


It’s also the only method recognized by carpet manufacturers to maintain warranties.


At Mr. Steam Carpet Cleaning, we use hot water extraction to deliver a thorough clean that revitalizes your carpet.


Most carpets dry within 6–12 hours, depending on your home’s air circulation and temperature.


Bonus Tip: Consider having your air ducts cleaned to improve air quality and reduce the fine dust particles that settle in carpets. We recommend NW Breeze for exceptional air duct cleaning services—tell them we sent you!


Why Choose Mr. Steam Carpet Cleaning?


At Mr. Steam Carpet Cleaning, we strive to deliver the best experience, every time.


  • Best Communication: We keep you informed every step of the way.


  • Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees, ever.


  • Trustworthy Service: Whether you’re home or away, your property is in good hands.


  • A Little Humor: Because cleaning doesn’t have to be boring!


If you’re in Hillsboro, Beaverton, Tigard, West Linn, Wilsonville, or Lake Oswego, call today for a free, no-obligation estimate.


We also offer a 10% discount for military families and seniors, plus seasonal specials.


Keep your carpets looking their best with these tips—and let us handle the deep cleaning!






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