Alas, fall has arrived which means winter will be around the corner before we know it with chilly temperatures, clouds and rain. Along with protecting your home from moisture, there is also dirt, mud, leaves, and microscopic hitchhikers making their way into your home during this season.
Thankfully, there are ways to prevent the winter onslaught of elements from getting the upper hand. Here are a few ideas to help keep your carpet clean during winter months.
Mats for Your Entryway
Earlier we posted an article about using mats to reduce outside objects from getting in. Due to the cold temperatures and moisture of winter months, outside particles and debris are more likely to find their way inside during these months. If possible, it’s best to create a 3-stage area with a scraper mat outside, a scraper/wiper mat just inside the entry, and a walk-off mat to act as a barrier for your carpets.
Remove Your Shoes
Again, an earlier article went into further detail on removing your shoes when entering. Let’s face it – the most likely place that dirt or debris will hitch a ride is on your footwear. Knowing that, why bring the footwear onto your carpet? Set up a place to remove shoes – preferably outside, but perhaps in a mudroom or buffer area. Many people find success using a shoe rack. The goal is to keep the dirty shoes from tracking the dirt into the home.
Attend the Exterior
Most of us have porches, patios, or walkways, leading to our front door. Many of us park in our driveway (or at least in front of our house) instead of inside the garage. If that’s the case, make sure the path leading to your front door or entryway is swept clean to minimize the possibility of things getting tracked in underfoot.
Change your Air Filter
If you have an HVAC system, replace the filter as the winter draws near. Your system has probably trapped quite a bit of particulates from the air during the summer and autumn months, so clean out those traps. Not only will this allow your system to capture more particulates, but it will also help with the moisture levels in the home. You might even notice less dust and debris being picked up by your vacuum. Speaking of which…
Vacuum Regularly
Extra dry air can attract dust mites, and perhaps mold spores. While your HVAC system will likely capture much of these culprits, so will your carpet. The longer they’re left to linger, the more you will be affected. Get them out of your carpet by running your vacuum weekly, even twice a week. Don’t forget to vacuum or clean your entryway rugs and mats regularly too, as their whole purpose is to catch the dirt before your carpet does.
Get Professional Cleaning before Autumn becomes Winter
Ah, last but certainly not least. Preferred Carpet Care is happy to schedule a professional carpet cleaning with you before the hustle and bustle of winter – including all the holidays and social events therein. Professional carpet cleaning will ensure your carpets look, feel, smell and present their best when your honored guests arrive. Our skilled expertise and high-end equipment will make sure any pollutants, pet residue, or allergens are not present to aggravate you, your family, or your visitors.
Keep in mind that the longer you wait, the more likely a problem will ensue. Get prepared for winter now – let Preferred Carpet Care help you do so. Give us a call or schedule an appointment here on our website.