Carpets come in a variety of types, some last 2 years others can still look good after 15. You may have a carpet in your house that you are not sure whether it should be replaced or some professional cleaning may help. Below is a handy guide to help you decide what you should do with your carpet.

Matted down carpet?

A matted down carpet is when the pile in the carpet (usually polyester) condenses and doesnt spring back up any more. This usually occours in areas of high traffic such as hallways and stairs. Having your carpet cleaned would not help to reduce the matting or even revive the pile. You would just end up with a clean, matted down carpet.

Matted carpets made of nylon or wool then professional carpet cleaning may be able to lift the tufts and restore the pile. These types of carpet also respond very well to cleaning and can look brand new.

Stained Carpet?

There are certain stains that just can't be removed fully, because the process and chemicals required to remove them would destory the carpet. There are many substances that can ruin a carpet so the best advice is to clean the spill or stain as soon as possible. Depending on the stain there is usually something that can counter-act it and get rid of it, if you act quickly:

• Tea stains - Baking Soda
• Coffee stains - White vinger & water (equal parts)
• Pen or Ink stains - Cornstarch
• Red Wine - White vingar & salt
• Wax or Gum - Freeze with an icecube then break apart and hoover up

Do remember when cleaning a stain to blot the area, never scrub as this will ruin the pile and leave you with a worn area in your carpet.

Old and tired Carpet?

Carpets only last so long and after around 10 years it is usually a good idea to invest in a new carpet. Carpet cleaning can only do so much and wont make your old carpet last any longer.