Steam cleaners and deep cleans key to prolonging carpet life, says expert

Homeowners have been encouraged to adopt regular cleaning routines and consider professional services to extend the life of their carpets, according to new advice published by cleaning expert Joyce French at HomeHow.co.uk.

French said a consistent carpet maintenance schedule, including regular vacuuming, prompt treatment of stains, and occasional deep cleaning, could help maintain a carpet’s appearance and prolong its lifespan.

“Dirt and soil trapped in the carpet can act like sandpaper and eventually damage the carpet,” she said.

“A professional carpet cleaner provides a deep clean that keeps the carpet fresh and helps to extend the life of the carpet.”

Several common carpet cleaning methods were outlined in the guide, including steam cleaning, dry cleaning, hot water extraction, and vacuuming.

Steam cleaning was described as a popular option that uses heated mist to loosen dirt and kill up to 99.9 per cent of bacteria. While the method is more effective on hard flooring, French noted it remained a viable option for carpets.

Dry cleaning, which involves applying a powder that acts like a sponge to absorb dirt, was identified as a quicker solution for lighter cleans. Meanwhile, hot water extraction was said to be the most thorough method, involving the injection of high-pressure water and detergent into the carpet followed by a powerful vacuum extraction.

The guide also offered practical advice for those considering the use of a steam mop at home. It explained how steam mops operate, the differences between continuous and on-demand models, and factors to consider before buying—such as cord length, tank size and available accessories.

For routine upkeep, French recommended vacuuming once or twice per week.

While DIY methods can maintain surface cleanliness, the guide noted that professional cleaning services are often needed to remove deeper contaminants.

“A professional carpet cleaning will kill the bacteria in the carpet, and deep cleaning will remove all of the trapped dirt deep within the carpet fibres,” French said.

The expert also pointed to potential health risks associated with neglected carpets, including dust mites and allergens, which can aggravate respiratory conditions such as asthma and sinus congestion.

Signs that a carpet may need replacing include stubborn stains, flat or matted fibres, and an increase in allergy symptoms at home. According to French, most carpets last around 10 years with proper care.

The guide cautioned that if a carpet is more than a decade old or no longer responds to cleaning, replacement may be the most effective option.