Carpet cleaning is an important part of home maintenance, but it’s surrounded by many myths that can lead to improper care and damage. 

These misconceptions often result in ineffective cleaning methods that harm your carpets and reduce their lifespan. 

At COIT, we want to clear up some of the most common carpet cleaning myths because knowing the truth will help you keep your carpets cleaner and healthier.

Myth 1: Salt Absorbs Spills

Reality: Using salt to soak up liquid spills is a bad idea. It leaves a residue that's hard to remove. Instead, blot spills with a clean white cloth and mild dish soap. Follow up with a damp cloth to remove any soap residue. Blot from the outside of the stain inwards to avoid spreading it.

Myth 2: Baking Soda is a Great Stain Remover

Reality: Baking soda can damage carpet fibers and is difficult to remove completely. It’s best used for deodorizing, not stain removal. For effective cleaning, professional products are a safer choice.

Myth 3: Commercial Spot Removers Are Safe for All Carpets

Reality: Some spot removers can damage wool or new-generation fibers, leading to chemical burns. Always test a small, hidden area first before applying a spot remover to your carpet.

Myth 4: Frequent Carpet Cleaning Makes Your Carpet Get Dirty Faster

Reality: Poor-quality carpet cleaning can leave a residue that attracts dirt. However, professional cleaning, like the services provided by COIT, removes deep-down dirt and leaves no residue, keeping your carpets cleaner for longer.

Myth 5: Rub a Stain on Carpet or Upholstery

Reality: Rubbing a stain pushes it deeper into the fibers and damages the carpet. Always blot stains with a dry white cloth, using warm water and mild detergent if necessary.

Myth 6: Use Hot Water

Reality: Hot water can set in stains and affect the dye in carpets. Always use warm or cold water to clean stains to avoid creating permanent marks.

Myth 7: Rarely Clean Upholstery

Reality: Regular cleaning prolongs the life of your upholstery. Dirt, dust, and allergens accumulate in the fibers, causing them to degrade over time. Proper cleaning methods can help maintain your upholstery's appearance and health.

Myth 8: Vinegar is an Effective Stain Remover

Reality: Vinegar can damage the dyes in carpet and upholstery fabrics. It’s more of a disinfectant than a stain remover. Professional products designed for specific fabrics are safer and more effective.

Myth 9: Cleaning Wool Carpet May Lead to Shrinkage

Reality: When done correctly, cleaning wool carpets won’t cause shrinkage. Using the right cleaning solutions and methods ensures your wool carpet stays in top condition without shrinking.

Myth 10: Household Cleaning Products Work as Well As Commercial Products

Reality: Household products may not be formulated for carpet fibers and can cause damage. Professional cleaning products are designed to protect carpets and ensure thorough cleaning without harm.

Myth 11: Renting a Carpet Cleaning Machine is a Good Idea

Reality: Rental machines often lack the power to extract all water and cleaning solution, leaving your carpet damp and prone to mildew. Professional equipment used by companies like COIT ensures thorough cleaning and extraction.

Myth 12: Carpet Can Be Freshened with Deodorizing Powder

Reality: Deodorizing powders mask odors but don’t eliminate them. They can also leave residues that attract dirt. Proper cleaning removes the source of odors for a truly fresh carpet.

Myth 13: New Carpet Doesn’t Need Cleaning

Reality: New carpets can still harbor dirt and chemicals from manufacturing. Regular cleaning helps remove these and maintain your carpet’s appearance and health.

Myth 14: Steam Cleaning is Bad for Carpet

Reality: Steam cleaning is recommended by carpet manufacturers as it effectively removes deep dirt and contaminants. Professional steam cleaning services ensure thorough cleaning without the risks of mold or mildew growth.

Myth 15: Vacuuming Too Much is Bad for Carpet

Reality: Vacuuming regularly is the best way to keep your carpet clean. Modern carpets are designed to withstand frequent vacuuming. Using the right vacuum settings prevents damage and keeps carpets looking their best.

Myth 16: Only Dirty Carpets Need Cleaning

Reality: Even carpets that look clean can harbor dirt, dust, and allergens. Regular cleaning keeps carpets hygienic and prolongs their life, even if they don't appear dirty.

Myth 17: Cleaning Carpets in Winter is Ineffective

Reality: Winter is actually a great time to clean carpets. Indoor heating speeds up drying times, and with less foot traffic from outdoor activities, your carpets stay cleaner longer.

Myth 18: Cheap Cleaning Services are Just as Good

Reality: You get what you pay for with carpet cleaning. Cheap services often use inferior products and equipment, leading to poor results and potential damage to your carpets.

Myth 19: Professional Cleaning is Unnecessary if You Have a Good Vacuum

Reality: Regular vacuuming is essential, but it doesn't remove all the dirt and allergens embedded deep in the carpet fibers. Professional cleaning reaches these areas and ensures a thorough clean.

COIT's Professional Carpet Cleaning Services

Understanding these myths helps in maintaining clean and healthy carpets. 

At COIT, we offer professional cleaning services to keep your carpets in top condition. Our trained technicians use state-of-the-art equipment and cleaning solutions designed to protect your carpets and enhance their longevity.

The COIT Promise: We Deliver 100 Percent Customer Satisfaction 

At COIT, customer satisfaction is our top priority. Our services are guaranteed, and our technicians are extensively trained to provide the highest quality cleaning. 

We respect your home and time, ensuring your carpets are left looking and smelling clean and fresh.

Additional Tips for Carpet Maintenance

1. Regular Vacuuming: Vacuum your carpets at least once a week to remove surface dirt and prevent it from embedding into the fibers.
2. Spot Cleaning: Address spills and stains immediately. Use the blotting method and avoid rubbing to prevent spreading the stain.
3. Professional Cleaning: Schedule professional carpet cleaning every 6-12 months to maintain your carpet’s health and appearance.

Conclusion

Debunking these common myths can help you take better care of your carpets. For expert carpet cleaning, trust COIT's professional services. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction ensures your carpets are in the best hands.

For more information or to schedule a cleaning, contact us today.

Contact COIT for a professional cleaning!