Flu season is here again, and on top of the rest of your precautions, you’ll want to be sure that you know how to properly disinfect carpets throughout your home. You’d be surprised how many people don’t get this right – either by using the wrong product or the wrong method. We’ll dive in to the right procedure on this month’s Chicago Carpet Cleaning blog!
Use the Right Product
Not all cleaners disinfect, and not all disinfectants are effective in killing the viruses that cause the flu. Furthermore, many disinfectants can cause serious and permanent damage to your carpets and upholstery.
Getting the right product is crucial. We recommend cross-referencing your carpet or furniture manufacturer’s cleaning suggestions with a list of approved carpet disinfectant products.
Follow the Directions
This is where most people mess up! You were probably taught a very specific, handed-down method of how to clean stains, spills, and the like… you know – “Blot, don’t scrub!”. However, traditional methods may not always work when it comes to properly disinfecting your carpets.
That’s because disinfectants are different than standard cleaners, and they each have their own specific instructions. Some require pre-cleaning, some require the surface to be wet already, and some require wait times or catalysts. Some may not work at all for the surface you’re trying to disinfect, and some might bleach or stain your carpet.
Be sure to take the time to sit down and read the instructions for your product – it’s well worth it!
Give it Time!
This falls in line with following the directions, but it’s still worth a mention! Despite what the claims on the bottle may lead you to believe, very few carpet disinfectants can kill all the germs on your carpet instantly. On the other hand – certain products must be dabbed or diluted with water in order to prevent bleaching/damage.
Be prepared to let the product sit on your carpet for as short or as long as it takes.
Protect Yourself and Others
Disinfectants can contain extremely harsh chemicals, and it’s an unfortunate reality that the more effective a disinfectant is on your Chicago carpet, the more hazardous it can be to the health of you and others.
When using or cleaning the product up, wear thick rubber gloves, goggles, and a mask. Be sure to keep pets and other housemates away from the area you’re cleaning until it’s safe, too.
There’s no point in cleaning to avoid the flu if the stuff you’re cleaning with makes you just as sick!
Keep it Clean
As we’ve mentioned in previous blogs, accumulated dirt and grime make it easier for microbes to stick to your carpet – and make it harder for disinfectant to reach and destroy them. Frequent vacuuming will help, but you’ll need to have your carpets deep cleaned regularly as well.
Need Help Disinfecting Your Carpets? Call in the Pros!
If this sounds like too much work, or if you want to combine a deep cleaning with your disinfection, call Chicago Carpet Care. Our steam extraction method uses heat to disinfect your carpets, which is a gentle and hazardous chemical-free way to get the job done. Reach out to us for professional carpet cleaning services by calling us at (888) 449-3227 or by completing the form on the contact page.
Stay safe and healthy out there, Chicagoans!
