The Best Way to Vacuum Carpet

Keeping carpets cleaned helps reduce allergens in the home

To extend the life of your carpet and to control dust and other allergens, carpets should be vacuumed at least once per week. Upright vacuum cleaners are usually the most effective for removing dirt and debris in deeper areas of a carpet. HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters may help to reduce allergens and dust particles that can be released into the air through vacuuming.

Surface Dirt

Immediately following the discovery of surface dirt such as pet fur, crumbs or dirt from someone's shoes, use an electric broom or small stick vacuum to gather these particles before they sink into the carpet.

Vacuum Maintenance

For best results when vacuuming, start with an empty filtration canister or bag. Empty the bag or canister again when it becomes half full. Properly maintained vacuum cleaners that are emptied frequently are more efficient and can remove more particles from the carpet.

Deep Cleaning

At least once each week use an upright or canister vacuum cleaner to remove the dirt that has gathered deep in between the carpet fibers. To do this most effectively, turn on the vacuum cleaner and run it slowly across the carpet, forward and back, seven or eight times per section. The most efficient manner is to start in the corner, furthest from the exit and work your way out of the room in slow sweeping strokes.

References

• Michigan State University Extension: Carpets General Care
• University of Illinois Extension: Healthy Indoor Air
• Wisconsin State University: Carpet