Expert Advice

Floor Care Tips

Service Floorcovering, Inc. has been in business for over 50 years. With our years of experience, we have accumulated knowledge and become experts in not only our products and services, but also in the continuing maintenance and care for our products. Our goal is to not only make sure our customers are getting the best products and services, but also to offer tips on how to maintain and clean the product to make it last as long as possible.

How to Care for your Carpet

The lasting beauty of your carpet will be directly related to the care you provide. No carpet is maintenance free. There are simple rules to follow to keep your carpet in peak condition.

Stop dirt at entryways and vacuum frequently.

Use wipe off mats at entrances to reduce outside dirt from being tracked onto carpet. The best way to reduce soil accumulation and prolong the life of your carpet is to vacuum! Most dirt, even dust, breaks down the pile of your carpet. For best results, use a vacuum cleaner with a beater bar to agitate the pile more effectively.

Remove spills promptly.

Anything spilled on a carpet should be cleaned promptly, with the appropriate procedure.

Clean most-used areas.

The most used areas of the carpet — entrances, doorways, traffic lanes, around a favorite chair — are going to collect dirt much faster than the remainder of the carpet. Cleaning these areas when they just begin to look soiled stops the dirt from spreading to the rest of the house and can extend the time between professional cleanings.

A Description of Carpet Fibers

Nylon

The most common of all carpet fibers. High durability makes it a popular choice for high-traffic areas. Resistant to most dirt, mildew and moisture, and known for ease of maintenance and non-allergenic properties.

PET Polyester

An excellent fiber choice for the budget conscious. Shares many of nylon's non-allergenic, moisture and wear resistant properties but lacks the same degree of durability.

Polypropylene

First used in carpets designed for outdoor use and high-moisture spaces. Color-fastness, resilience, and resistance to water damage, mildew, and piling are key benefits. Also recognized for a luxurious appearance and outstanding softness.

Other Floor Care Tips

Sweep, dust, mop or vacuum your floor daily to remove loose dirt and grit before it can scratch the surface.
Thoroughly clean the kitchen twice as often as other areas.
Promptly wipe up food spills with a dry cloth or paper towel, then clean with a recommended cleaner.
Never clean your hardwood with water. Never use soaps, detergents or oil soaps on wood floors.
Only use products recommended by the manufacturer. If unknown, a general hardwood floor cleaner (e.g. Bonakemi) can be used.
Place area rugs or mats at doorways and in front of the kitchen sink. Never use rubber or plastic backed rugs — solid cotton is highly recommended.
Never use sheet vinyl or tile floor care products on wood floors.
Spike heels, cleats or work shoes can damage wood floors.
Humidity control is highly recommended — use a humidifier in winter and air conditioning or dehumidifier in summer.
To move furniture across a wood floor, pick it up rather than dragging it.
Use wide-type casters to help prevent damage to hardwood floors.
Fabric protectors are a must for all furniture legs to help prevent scratching and dents.
Most finishes should not be waxed — ask a professional or manufacturer.
Keep pet nails trimmed regularly and minimize animal play on wood floors.
Keep potted plants off of your floor to prevent condensation build-up.
Children's plastic push toys can scuff wood surfaces — keep this to a minimum.

Recommended Routine Care

Vacuum, use a dust mop or wipe with a damp cloth.
For spills, wipe up with a cloth or sponge.
Do not use soap-based detergents or "mop and shine" products — they may leave a dull film.
Do not use abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or scouring powder.
Do not wax or polish your floor.
Laminate flooring can become slippery when wet — immediately wipe up wet areas.

Spring Cleaning & Tough Spots

Use a well-squeezed damp mop with Bruce Dura-Luster No-Wax Floor Cleaner for spring cleaning.
Remove tough spots like shoe polish, tar and asphalt driveway sealer with nail polish remover containing acetone (follow label instructions), then wipe with a damp cloth.
Place a natural or colorfast mat at outside entrances to collect tracked-in dirt and absorb excess moisture.
Use Armstrong felt floor protectors on chairs and furniture — the heavier the item, the wider the protector should be.

Have questions or need more information?

Our team has over 50 years of experience — we're happy to help.

Call Us at 586-294-0020