Vacuum Cleaning
When you use a vacuum cleaner on your carpet, pay special attention to the areas that receive the most traffic, such as doorways, hallways and stairs. It is good practice to vacuum the entire carpet at least three times a week.

If you spill anything on your carpet you should clean it up immediately, as it is much more difficult to remove dirt that is left to penetrate the pile.

For maximum effectiveness use a vacuum cleaner that has a rotating brush. Ensure that the vacuum cleaner is set for the correct height of your carpet. Push the cleaner forward, in the direction of the pile. When you pull the cleaner back toward you, the rotating brush will lift the pile.

Regardless of which type of vacuum cleaner you use, you should ensure that the flow of air is not impeded. You should regularly check any pipes for blockages and that the brush turns freely and is not worn. Make sure to clean and replace filters as recommended by the manufacturer. ALWAYS check the cable for damage before using the cleaner.

Other methods of cleaning
The Carpet and Rug institute recommends that carpets be cleaned using a deep extraction method at least every 12 to 18 months. You should use a cleaning method as suggested by the manufacturer to maintain their warranty.

There are several accepted methods for deep cleaning carpets constructed from synthetic fibres. Whichever method you choose you always make sure you follow the guidelines regarding dilution and application. Also, make sure to use agents that are designed specifically for cleaning stain resistant carpets.

The most common cleaning methods are:

Hot water extraction - or steam cleaning
With this method the carpet is pre-treated with a compound to loosen dirt. A hot pressurised cleaning solution is then forced into the pile.

Absorbent pad or "bonnet"
With this method a machine similar to a floor buffer is used

Dry extraction, using a polymer compound
Special compounds are applied to the carpet, which attract dirt and are then vacuumed away

Dry foam
With this method a dry foam cleaning detergent is applied to the carpet. This is then worked into the pile by a specially designed machine, before being wet vacuumed.

Rotary Shampoo
This method is similar to the absorbent pad method but is carried out with a machine equipped with brushes.

Natural fibres may require special care and the following are guidelines for cleaning some of the most common of these fibres.

Wool
You may use any of the common cleaning methods for wool. However, excessive heat should be avoided. Wool can also be damaged easily by alkaline or bleach, so only natural detergents should be used. A wool carpet should be dried quickly after using a wet cleaning method.

Silk
Silk is very delicate and should only be cleaned using a dry cleaning process. DIY cleaning on silk is not recommended as it is very sensitive to high temperatures and is easily damaged when wet.

Cotton / Rayon
Although these types of fibres are very strong and can be cleaned using most methods, care should be taken to ensure discoloration does not occur, as can be the case with certain alkaline solutions. Over-wetting must also avoided, as this can lead to shrinkage.

Natural plant fibres
Many plant fibres are used in carpet construction; including, jute, cotton, sisal, hemp, ramie, pineapple and coconut (coir). Most cleaning methods can be safely used on these fibres, but generally we would recommend deep cleaning be carried out by a professional

Whichever method of cleaning you choose, you should try to ensure that your carpet is fully dry within twelve hours, to avoid shrinkage or distortion. You should also allow the carpet to dry completely before walking on it.

If in doubt - contact a qualified professional!