Soft furnishings such as carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture are an integral part of your home décor. They not only provide comfort but also add to the overall aesthetic appeal of your living space.
However, over time, they tend to accumulate dirt, dust, allergens, and even stubborn stains, affecting their appearance and lifespan. While it may be tempting to opt for DIY cleaning methods, there are several reasons why you should leave carpet and upholstery cleaning to the professionals.
In this article, we will discuss the benefits of hiring carpet cleaners and the potential pitfalls of attempting a DIY job.
Discoloration and Fading
One of the primary reasons for avoiding DIY carpet cleaning is the potential damage it can cause to your soft furnishings. Many homeowners tend to use harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaning techniques without realizing the harm they can cause.
For instance, using bleach or ammonia-based cleaners can lead to discoloration or damage to the fibers of your carpet or upholstery. Similarly, excessive scrubbing can wear down the fabric, leading to a frayed and worn-out appearance.
Additionally, most homeowners do not have access to the professional-grade equipment that is required for effective carpet cleaning and upholstery cleaning, such as powerful steam cleaners and high-quality cleaning agents.
Potential for Overwetting
Many DIY carpet and upholstery cleaning methods involve the use of water, which can be problematic if not used correctly. Overwetting your carpets or upholstery can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, as well as cause the backing of your carpet to deteriorate.
Expert cleaners are trained to use the appropriate amount of water and have the tools needed to extract excess moisture, preventing these issues.
Risk of Shrinking or Stretching
When you attempt DIY carpet cleaning or upholstery cleaning, you may inadvertently use too much water, which can cause your furnishings to shrink or stretch. Over time, this can lead to unsightly deformations and even structural damage.
Professional carpet cleaners and upholstery cleaning services have the knowledge and equipment to avoid these issues and ensure your furnishings maintain their original shape and size.
Residue Buildup
DIY cleaning methods often leave behind a residue that can attract dirt and grime, leading to more rapid re-soiling of your soft furnishings.
This can be particularly problematic for carpets, as residue buildup can make fibers more susceptible to wear and tear. Professional carpet cleaners use specialized equipment and cleaning solutions designed to remove dirt and grime without leaving a residue, ensuring your carpets and upholstery stay cleaner for longer.
Inadequate Cleaning and Health Risks
DIY cleaning methods may not be sufficient to remove all the dirt, dust, and allergens embedded in your soft furnishings. This can lead to an unhealthy living environment, especially for those with allergies or respiratory issues.
In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that indoor air quality can be up to five times worse than outdoor air quality, with carpets and upholstery being a significant contributors to indoor pollution.
Professionals use advanced cleaning techniques such as hot water extraction or steam cleaning, which can effectively remove deep-seated dirt, allergens, and bacteria from your soft furnishings. This not only results in a cleaner and fresher appearance but also promotes a healthier living environment.
Cost of Equipment and Supplies
Purchasing or renting carpet cleaning and upholstery cleaning equipment, as well as buying the necessary cleaning solutions, can be expensive. In many cases, the cost of hiring professional services may be comparable to or even less than the cost of doing it yourself.
Plus, you’ll have the added benefit of knowing that your furnishings are being cleaned by experts with the right tools and knowledge.
Conclusion
While the DIY trend may be appealing for some projects, it is not the best choice when it comes to cleaning your soft furnishings.
The risks of causing damage to your furnishings, the ineffective removal of dirt, allergens, and stains, and the time-consuming nature of the task make it clear that hiring professional carpet cleaners and upholstery cleaning services is the smarter choice. Not only will your carpets and upholstery look and smell better, but you’ll also enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is a healthier environment for you and your family.
At Bloomington Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning, our commitment lies in delivering exceptional carpet cleaning in Bloomington. We ensure the use of secure and highly efficient cleaning methods and products. Get in touch with us now to book your cleaning session and witness the remarkable impact of our environmentally friendly cleaning services!
