Summertime – we love everything about it, right? The warm days. The cool evenings. The sounds of summer. Ice cream. Dinners outside from the grill. Stains on the carpet …

Okay, maybe we don’t love the stains. And unfortunately, the constant in and out of the house makes them more possible than ever. But with a little bit of knowledge, you can be prepared for whatever comes your way this summer. The most common carpet problems in summer include:

Allergens
Did you know your carpets may be making you sick?

In summer, allergens get more active. Pollen settles down into the microfibers of your carpet and has the potential to impact your health. To avoid these problems, it’s important to use a professional carpet cleaner on a regular basis, depending on the activity in your home, and vacuum regularly to prevent allergens from settling deep within.

Odor
Heat and humidity can take its toll on what already lurks in your carpets. Do you know air fresheners and carpet deodorizers can also release harmful particles in the air? These chemicals can stay suspended in the air to make your house smell good, but at the same time add to your indoor air pollution. The best way to get rid of bad odors is to use a professional carpet cleaner regularly and replace the carpets when the smell becomes unbearable.

Stains
Summer comes with lots of potential stain problems: grass, soda, popsicle, chocolate, crayon … While not all stains are summer specific, there is a lot more activity throughout your home. The kids are home more looking for things to do. You’re more active, with the sun setting later each night. All of that adds up to more potential for damage to your carpets.

The key with most stain removal is to act fast. If you let the stain stay for even a few minutes, it has a greater chance of absorbing and becoming noticeable forever. Blot, never rub. Use mild detergents and rinse. You can also use a vinegar solution, dabbing the area until the stain is removed. Always test small areas before you work on bigger areas.

Ineffective Carpet Cleaners
Some people try to cut corners and do the job themselves. Investing in substandard cleaning equipment or harmful chemicals can do more harm than good. One of the biggest nightmares can be a cleaner that uses too much water. If a carpet doesn’t dry out quickly, it risks having mold and spores appear, which can make your house smell and cause significant health related risks. That’s why it’s always important to hire a reputable cleaning company.

What questions do you have about your carpeting?