Maintenance from the Start
Your new carpet tiles are an investment. Like with any other investment, routine maintenance is a necessary requirement. With proper care, your carpet tiles will look fresh and beautiful for many years to come. The following recommendations will help you to achieve that goal.
Preventative Maintenance
Identify sources of soiling and react to spills promptly. Blot up all liquids spills as opposed to rubbing. Then flush with clean water to further dilute the spill. Repeat as necessary to further remove the liquid. For solid materials, first remove particles carefully then follow the above procedure. You may literally take a tile from the floor and take it to the sink to clean it. Then lean the tile against a wall to dry. You can also use a hair dryer lightly on the tile to speed up the drying process. Once dry you can place the tile back on the floor. Remember its always a good idea to have attic stock (extra tiles) to use when others are being cleaned or when one or two must be permanently replaced if damaged.
Vacuuming and Spot Cleaning
Use a vacuum with strong suction and beater bar brush to bring soil particles in the pile to the surface of the carpet. This will allow the particles to then be drawn into the vacuum bag.
Thorough Cleaning Procedures
Hot water extraction is the preferred method for cleaning your carpet tiles. No chemicals in the tank are necessary, only clean hot water. If the spot was produced by materials such as food, coke, coffee, fruit drinks, human or animal bodily fluids, use a mild acid such as plain white vinegar. Dilute the vinegar by 50% with clean cool water, then blot the spot with a clean white towel. This method will gently break down the stain and allow the spot to then be lifted onto the towel. Repeat as necessary. Once the spot has been removed, thoroughly flush the area with cool water to remove any remaining vinegar solution.
Oil based spills and stains may be loosened by sparingly using a mild detergent such as ivory liquid. Once the spot has been loosened, blot with a clean white towel. Flush thoroughly, then blot any excess water from the surface.
Repairs and Replacement
One of the major advantages of using carpet tiles is the ability to remove a badly soiled tile and replace it with a fresh tile. Remove the soiled tile, then replace it with a tile taken form an area not as noticeable, such as under a sofa or table. Finally, replace that tile with a fresh one. In this manner, the original tile that has been removed is replaced with one of similar wear.
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