Carpets look clean long after they stop being clean. Dust, dander, sand and spills sink below the surface, where a vacuum cannot reach. A simple routine keeps carpets fresh and helps them last longer.
Vacuum at least weekly
Vacuum high-traffic areas, like hallways and living rooms, once or twice a week. Bedrooms and guest rooms can usually wait a week. Near the beach, sand builds up quickly, so vacuum more often during summer.
Spot-clean right away
Blot spills with a clean white cloth. Don’t rub, which pushes the stain deeper. The faster you act, the easier it is to remove.
Professional cleaning every 12 to 18 months
For most homes, a professional carpet cleaning every 12 to 18 months removes the deep dirt that vacuuming leaves behind.
- Homes with pets: every 6 to 12 months
- Homes with young children: every 6 to 12 months
- Allergy-sensitive households: every 6 months
- Light-use rooms: every 18 to 24 months
What about sofas, mattresses and rugs?
Upholstered furniture and mattresses collect body oils, dust and dander. Most benefit from a professional clean about once a year. Area rugs in busy rooms should follow the same schedule as your carpets.
Signs it’s time
- Traffic lanes look darker or flattened
- Odors return soon after vacuuming
- Allergy symptoms get worse at home
- Stains that won’t lift with spot-cleaning