What’s Lurking in Your Carpet? 8 Pro Tips for Cleaning Carpet the Right Way

When prospective homebuyers walk into an open house, their noses often make the first impression. Lingering odors from pets, food, and cigarettes can make a home feel uninviting,  instantly tanking a potential deal.

These stubborn smells typically come from rugs and carpets that haven’t been properly maintained. And it’s not just smokers and pet owners who face this issue—even nonsmokers without pets can have musty, unpleasant floor coverings.

Even if you’re not selling your home anytime soon, you still want to have clean, odor-free carpets for you, your family, and your guests. Fortunately, you can give most rugs and carpets a fresh start. Here’s how to clean carpets and rugs, keeping them looking and smelling their best.

1. Vacuum regularly

To prevent dirt from embedding in carpet fibers, vacuum high-traffic areas two to three times each week, says Lauren Houser, vice president of marketing and a cleaning expert at Zep, a professional cleaning products company. Vacuum low-traffic spots once a week. If rugs have a high pile, turn off the vacuum’s beater bar to prevent pulls.

Additionally, use doormats at each entrance to minimize dirt tracked into the home, says Marla Mock, president of Molly Maid USA, a nationwide home cleaning service specializing in residential cleaning.

2. Rotate the rug

Don’t let a rug sit in the same position for too long, as this will cause uneven wear and fading. Turn area carpets 90 to 180 degrees every three to six months to evenly distribute the effects of foot traffic and sunlight, Houser says.

3. Use a rug pad

When you, your children, or your pets skid on a rug, it puts wear and tear on the top and bottom. Just ask Forrest Webber, founder and CEO of Bear Brothers Cleaning in Alabama.

“My dog has learned the art of surfing on the rug,” Webber says. “We got a rug pad, and it no longer moves when he is running around. This prevents creases and tears.”

A rug pad is also necessary if older adults live in the home; it will reduce the risk of falls. Double-sided carpet tape is an easy solution for small rugs.

4. Tackle spills ASAP

Webber admits to occasionally dropping food and drinks on his rugs—but he’s also become an expert at cleaning up spills. The longer you let a spill sit, the more likely it is to leave a hard-to-remove stain.

Webber’s pro tips include the following:

• Start by blotting the spill with a clean cloth (many recommend using a white cloth). Avoid rubbing, as it can spread the stain.
• Use warm water. For more stubborn stains, consider using white The acidity helps break down materials to lift the stain. A solution of warm water and dish soap may also work, but be sure to rinse and blot thoroughly to remove any soapy residue.
• You could also apply a carpet and upholstery spot remover for tough stains such as coffee, food, dirt, and grease.

5. Deodorize and freshen

While specialty cleaning products may be best for persistent pet odors or tough spills, a simple and effective way to remove odors and keep rugs fresh is baking soda.

The rule of thumb is to sprinkle baking soda on the rug, work it into the fibers with your hands or a brush, let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes, and then vacuum it up.

6. Schedule a seasonal deep clean

Even with regular care, rugs can benefit from a deep clean every six to 12 months to remove embedded dirt, says Houser. 

The cleaning method will depend on the rug’s size and material. Some may be suitable for a rented or purchased carpet-cleaning machine, while others—especially wall-to-wall carpeting—may require professional cleaning service.

If you choose to DIY:

• Check the rug’s label for cleaning instructions. Some materials, such as silk and certain synthetics, can’t handle the heat of a steam cleaner. The label may also indicate whether small rugs can be machine washed; if so, use a mild detergent and cold water on a gentle cycle.
• Many experts recommend using a rug-specific shampoo for the best results.
• Make sure the rug is completely dry before putting it back to prevent mold. Avoid hanging area rugs outside, Garrison warns, as sunlight can cause fading.

7. Call the pros

According to Mock, it’s best to call professionals in the following cases:

• A vacuum cannot reach embedded dirt, allergens, and buildup.
• A stain isn’t responding to home-removal methods, and additional removal attempts may damage the rug.
• The rug is high-end, antique, or made of delicate materials like wool or silk that require special care.

8. Consider a new rug

Sometimes, replacing a rug is the best option. Extensive wear and tear, stubborn stains, and lingering odors are all good reasons to invest in a new one. Check for fraying edges, matting, and a damaged backing. “If restoration costs outweigh the price of a new rug, replacing it is often the most practical choice,” Mock says.

Residents’ traffic patterns, the presence of pets and children and the rug’s overall quality will affect the longevity. But proper care can keep your floors covered for years to come.