Do carpets get as dirty as people say? And what can you do about a dirty carpet?

Unfortunately, the answer may not be the one you want to hear. It would be impossible for me to literally tell anyone individually that is reading this if their carpet is clean, not so clean, or in need of some cleaning. However, what we can discuss will help with deciding if it’s time to have the carpets cleaned or replaced in McPherson, Kansas. There are many sources that can factor in when it comes to carpet. Some of these sources are not pleasant to think about, so I promise we won’t dwell on them too long.

COMMON REASONS CARPETS GET DIRTY

• Bacteria

• Mold

• Water damage

• Viruses

• Dust mites

• Pollen and other allergens

• Dead skin cells

• Mycotoxins

• Toxic chemicals

• Pollutants

• Dirt and dust

• Pet feces, urine, and/or dander

ONE CARPET IS NOT THE SAME AS ANOTHER

As common as the sources listed above are, not every carpet is the same in McPherson, Kansas. There are variations that can occur based on climate, region, and the amount of exposure to individual sources. For example, if someone lived on a dirt road, it is fair to say that they would probably have more dust in their carpet than someone who lived in an area with paved roads all around. So it really helps to be aware of what your carpet may be exposed to.

THREE MOST COMMON REASONS

1. Dirt and Dust – It is safe to say that most homes in Kansas see their fair amount of dirt and dust given the wind and weather we experience. Dirt and dust can be a major issue on their own when it comes to carpet, but they can also be the precursor to other more disturbing issues, such as dust mites and allergic reactions to allergens caught in the dirt and dust.

2. Allergens – Allergens such as dust, pollen, mold, pet dander, and more can get caught up in carpet, causing allergic reactions, and can cause issues with asthma.

3. Water Damage and Mold – Water damage from a spill or leak can, if not dried quickly and correctly, lead to mold and mildew issues. Water damage should if at all possible be cleaned and dried within 24-48 hours. If this is not possible or not the case, mold has a good chance to grow. This can lead not only to your carpet and subfloor being damaged but also to health issues such as cold/flu like symptoms and allergic reactions in some people.

WHAT’S THE SOLUTION, THEN?

The solution depends on individual wants and needs, quite honestly. Some opt to get rid of carpet completely and install hardwood flooring, vinyl plank flooring, or something along those lines. Some may decide to get or keep carpet in their homes in McPherson, Kansas. Both types of flooring will have to be taken care of; it’s just especially important to remember that carpet is a magnet for everything it comes in contact with. This can prove problematic for some, but for others it may work out well. The key to carpet is to keep it as clean as possible. The following are some tips to keep a carpet clean:

• Have plenty of doormats available to stop dirt and grime at the door

• Don’t wear shoes in the house

• Change or clean your air filters

• Vacuum regularly

• Treat stains and water damage as quickly as possible

• Plan to professionally clean carpet once a year at least

Using these steps will make a dent in the amount of exposure your carpet and those residing in the home have to the sources that make carpets dirty.

If you have experienced water damage involving any of your flooring and are worried that there could be a mold issue, or have pets and are worried about the accidents that may have occurred, please contact FreshCo Cleaning and Restoration. We can help you to determine the best course of action – and we can certainly help clean things up!