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How to Clean Acrylic Carpet

Yvonne Van Damme

Acrylic carpet is practical and affordable. Acrylic became a popular ingredient in carpeting after 1950. One of the advantages of acrylic carpet is that it’s easier to clean than other types of carpet, such as wool. However, acrylic is not a popular choice of carpet any longer because it wears out quickly.

Thus, while acrylic carpeting may be cheaper to purchase initially, it often must be replaced sooner, which negates the cost savings.

Cleaning an acrylic carpet is very similar to cleaning wool or any other type of carpet. Your acrylic carpet should be deep cleaned approximately every 12 to 16 months.

Instructions

  1. Vacuum your carpet. While most people vacuum their carpet regularly, a thorough vacuuming needs to be done prior to cleaning an acrylic carpet. Vacuum the carpet slowly and make sure to hit every area and corner. The goal is to pass over every section of the carpet at least four times.

  2. Smooth out any dents or grooves in your acrylic carpet. Use a hair brush or any other kind of firm brush to smooth and brush out the dents.

  3. Use a hairdryer to smooth out dents that have been caused by furniture. After you have brushed the carpet, use your fingers to tuft it up. Set the hairdryer to medium heat. You don’t want it to be too hot because that can melt the fibers in acrylic carpet. Aim the hairdryer at the dented area for five to eight minutes.

  4. Purchase or rent a steam cleaner. They can be rented at most grocery stores and generally include the carpet cleaning solution. If the cleaning solution is not included, someone at the store can recommend the right cleaner for you. Steam cleaners also can be purchased from many department stores.

  5. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions as to how much cleaner to add to the machine. It varies among cleaners. In general, you will mix one part cleaner with two parts warm or hot water. The amount of cleaner also depends on how heavily your carpet is soiled.

  6. Steam clean your carpet following the manufacturer’s instructions. You should go over heavily soiled areas more than once. However, avoid going over areas too many times. If the carpet becomes too wet, the moisture may damage the carpet or the floor beneath it.

  7. Allow your acrylic carpet to dry overnight. Open as many windows and doors as possible to help the carpet dry more quickly. You can also use fans to speed the drying.

  8. Tip

    Turn on a heater to quicken the drying process.

    Warning

    Avoid walking on the carpet while it’s wet or damp.