Summer is finally here, and it’s a good time to relax.  Too bad that’s not so for your carpet.  Usually, the extra traffic due to school vacations, family barbeques, and summer parties takes its toll on carpets.  Spills, dirt, and other accidents are almost inevitable in a busy household.  What can you do in between your regularly scheduled carpet cleaning?

Dealing with Small Carpet Accidents

When spills occur, always remember to clean them up as quickly as possible.  Doing so helps to avoid having the substance set deeply in the fibers of the carpet.  Blot out liquids until they are dry.  Paper towels and white cloths work well, but for the best results use a microfiber towel.  Remove semi-solid substances by getting the bulk of it off the carpet.  Then use a spot removal treatment.

Among the worst things that you could ever do is scrub a stain or use bleach.  Scrubbing embeds the stains into the carpet while bleach can alter the color and strength of carpet fibers.

Many small spot stain removers are comprised of substances that most people have available.  Items like dishwashing soap, soda, vinegar, and washing detergent can easily remove common substances that are spilled on carpets. The following tips can help you to handle small stains.

Coffee, Tea, and Soft Drinks

What to use: 
White Vinegar Solution: Mix one-third cup white distilled vinegar to two-thirds cup water.

What to do:

1. Immerse stain with cold tap water or clear soda water (preferably club soda).
2. Apply white vinegar solution and blot.
3. Rinse stained area with cold water and blot until the area is dry.

For Red Wine

What to use:

Ammonia Solution: One tablespoon clear ammonia to one-half cup water.  Dish Detergent Solution: One teaspoon mild dish detergent to one cup water.  White Vinegar Solution: One-third cup white distilled vinegar to two-thirds cup water.

 What to do:

1. Judiciously apply dish detergent solution and blot.
2. Apply white vinegar solution and blot.
3. Flush with cold tap water. Blot the stained area again.
4. Apply ammonia solution.
5. Rinse with tap water and blot dry.

If you ever come across a carpet stain that is giving you problems, don’t delay in calling us.  AAA 1 Carpet & Upholstery Care is certified by Clean Trust and is affiliated with the Cleaning & Restoration Association.  Our specialty services include tile and grout cleaning, upholstery cleaning, pet urine removal, and natural stone cleaning.

AAA 1 Carpet & Upholstery Care

(818) 822-6773

If this was helpful, see also: 3 Overlooked Benefits of Steam Carpet Cleaning and AAA 1 Oriental Rug Cleaning Specialists.

Every day we get calls about carpet care.  Interestingly, two words get used interchangeably when addressing carpet cleaning—spot and stain.  Since we are in the business of carpet cleaning we understand the unique differences between the two terms.  However, we certainly understand why they are confused.  Here is the brief difference between the two:

• Spots: These are usually formed from substances that fall (or spill) on the carpet. Spots either are on or interwoven with the carpet fibers, but they are not chemically bonded to them.
• Stains: Any substance that can change the nature of the carpet or damage its fibers is one that causes a stain. Stains are chemically bonded to carpet fiber.

Understanding the exact carpet soiling types that you are dealing with can help you to remove the problem from your carpet without harming it.  If you happen to need assistance with identifying and cleaning spots or stains on your carpet, you can reach us at (818) 822-6773.

Spots and Stains 101

Apart from the brief info above, there are other facets of spots and stains that are worth noting.  Some of them are as follows:

• Spots are organic in nature, while stains are formed from inorganic substances.
• Stains can be relatively invisible and sometimes highly visible. Spots are always visible.
• Stains change the color or tint of the fibers, while spots do not.

There are a few transparent staining substances like cooking oil which attracts dirt.  This is a compounded problem since the soiled area can take on the properties of both a stain and a spot.  Our team of carpet care specialists knows how to address these issues quickly and efficiently.  AAA 1 Carpet & Upholstery Care provides world-class cleaning for residential and commercial clients throughout Temecula Valley.  Try out our current specials on carpet care today!

 

AAA 1 Carpet & Upholstery Care

(818) 822-6773

Related reading from us: Summer Carpet Stains and 3 Overlooked Benefits of Steam Carpet Cleaning.

If you have ever seen carpet that is gaping away from a wall or seam, you can make an educated guess that it didn’t begin that way.  No one would approve of a carpet installation that looked that way from the start (let alone pay for it).  What has happened over time is not natural wear and tear.  In fact, it should never happen.  Over the years, AAA 1 Carpet & Upholstery Care has seen such carpet separations at a number of businesses and homes throughout San Diego County.  As we explain to new clients that inquire about their carpet woes, the problem is carpet shrinkage.  However, can carpet really shrink?  And what could cause carpet to shrink?  The answer may amaze you!

Shrinking Carpets…Really?

It may sound strange, but carpets can shrink.  When the jute of the carpet remains wet for an elongated time, the backing of the carpet usually shrinks.

One of the main causes of carpet shrinkage is related to inferior cleaning methods. Unfortunately, some carpet cleaning services use equipment that is antiquated or simply not powerful enough to extract all the water from a carpet’s sub-layers during cleaning. Another reason for carpet shrinkage is poor cleaning technique.  Using too much water or pre-cleaning agents can lead to shrinkage as well.  In our experience, we have come to understand that proper carpet cleaning requires a special touch.

How Can You Avoid Them Shrinking?

Well, one of the best ways to prevent shrinkage is to use a cleaning service that understands the nuances of various carpet types.  Some carpets require a different cleaning approach than others while some have lighter or heavier tolerances.

With the possibility of your carpet shirking due to improper cleaning care, it is best that choose a service provider that knows carpet well.  Our team has nearly 40 years of experience and a proven reputation.  Call us to today for a quote.

AAA 1 Carpet & Upholstery Care

(818) 822-6773

You may also find these useful: Carpet Stain or Spot? What Is The Difference and Summer Carpet Stains.

Spring cleaning is here!  It is time to dust shelves, reorganized the closet, and get the house in order.  But, what are you going to do about the carpet?  Sweep?  Vacuum?  Rent a carpet cleaning machine?

Before you try to clean your carpeting with any of those methods, consider this advice from AAA 1 Carpet & Upholstery Care.

Carpet Is A Germ Factory

Not to be over-dramatic, but carpet collects bacteria, dead skin, dust and more.  A microscopic look at your carpeting would reveal a host of germs you that you’d likely want to forget!  These germs mainly come from outdoors and are tracked onto your carpet by shoes and pets.  To give you an idea of what may be going on in your carpet see the graph below.

Bacteria

Studies from immunologist and microbiologist, Philip Tierno Ph.D. reveal that on average carpeting has 4,000 times the amount bacteria on it per square inch than toilet seats.  Yes, your toilet seat is likely cleaner than your carpet!  Yet, that is only one of the health risks associated with your carpet.

Allergy Causing Carpets

The reason why your allergies may be flaring, could have nothing to do with the outdoor air quality.  The culprit may be a dirty carpet.  Outdoor debris as well as dead skin cells are easily become entrapped in carpeting where they serve as food sources for dust mites.  If you have pets, their dander can shed onto carpet and add to allergy occurrences.

Our Solution

AAA 1 Carpet & Upholstery Care has equipment capable of extracting the deepest allergens.  We also use environmentally-safe cleaning products that clean bacteria and other germs.  Our carpet cleaning services go beyond what is possible with ordinary vacuuming and carpet cleaning machines.  We have truck-mounted carpet cleaners that are perfect for heavy Spring Cleaning projects.  You’ll thank yourself for choosing to have a professional cleaning after you see the condition of your carpet.

AAA 1 Carpet & Upholstery Care

(818) 822-6773

More from our blog: Is Your Carpet Shrinking? and Carpet Stain or Spot? What Is The Difference.

Fine rugs are heirlooms and add splendor to the rooms that they decorate. However, dirt and liquids can severely affect specialty rugs over time.  The best way to care for such an investment to maintain a regular cleaning schedule for it. AAA 1 Carpet & Upholstery Care is Los Angeles’s premier rug cleaning specialist. We specialize in oriental rug cleaning, area rug cleaning, Persian rug cleaners, Turkish rugs, and other specialty rug cleaning. Our rug cleaning team are meticulous, which is why we maintain an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. When you want the best care for your exotic rug, call the AAA 1 Carpet & Upholstery Care!

Putting Hand Care in Los Angeles Rugs

The vast majority of specialty rugs are made from silk, wool, or a blended combination of both. These fabrics hold captivating colors and patterns, yet they are highly absorbent. Traditional cleaning methods that utilize harsh soaps will cause fading and fiber damage. Hand cleaning area rugs allow for deep cleaning without damaging the individual fibers of the rug.  Our technicians are trained in the best hand cleaning procedures. We use the same techniques used by museums that curate ancient rugs. Our vast studio is specially fitted to perform the following services:

• Allergy Treatment
• Dusting
• Full Immersion Cleaning
• Moth & Pest Treatment
• Pet Urine Treatment
• Preparation & Storage
• Rug Appraisals
• Rug Padding
• Rug Repairs
• Soil & Stain Protector
• Tea Washing

Need us to pick up your rug today?  No problem!  Just give us a call, delivery and pick-up are on us.

Our experience with rugs spans the globe.  We’ve cleaned rugs from every continent, and we have a thorough grasp of exactly how to care for specialty rugs.  Want to learn more about caring for your rug?  Download a copy of our free rug cleaning guide. AAA 1 Carpet & Upholstery Care is renowned for its services throughout Los Angeles, California.  Give us a call today to get the best cleaning that your rug has ever had!

AAA 1 Carpet & Upholstery Care

(818) 822-6773

If this was helpful, see also: Spring Cleaning 2018: What’s In Your Carpet? and Is Your Carpet Shrinking?.

As the year proceeds to its end, there are some celebrations, visits from family and friends, and other events that you may host at your home.  During these activities, it is quite easy for your flooring to amass several accidents.

Ways to Protect Your Flooring

The team at AAA1 Carpet & Upholstery Care receives several calls about flooring damages throughout the holidays.  Regardless of the type of flooring that your home utilizes, there are several ways to you can minimize damage to it.  We’ve compiled several tips that can prove most helpful in protecting your floors.

• Doormats. The greatest enemy of to any flooring type is dirt.  Dirt breaks down carpet fibers, scratches tile surfaces, degrades wood, and collects in the pores of grout lines.  Most dirt comes from outside of your home and is tracked in by shoes.  Therefore, door mats play an essential role in reducing the amount of dirt that makes its way onto your flooring.  Use doormats at every doorway that exits your home. Also be sure to use a door mat on each side of the doorway.  One word of caution for those who have hardwood floors: Avoid placing rubber doormats on hardwood.  When they get wet water can get trapped underneath the mat and ruin the wood.
• Area rugs. For every flooring type other than carpet, area rugs (and runners for hallways and foyers) help to capture dirt in high traffic areas.  These rugs are especially helpful in areas where beverages and foods are consumed.
• No shoe zones. As stated before, the majority of the dirt that enters into your home is via shoe tracking.  Hence, good reasoning dictates that removing shoes at the door is a great way to reduce outside dirt being introduced into your flooring.

In our next blog, we’ll cover more tips to protect your flooring.  AAA1 Carpet & Upholstery Care cleans floors of all types throughout Burbank, Calabasas, Chatsworth, Eagle Rock, Encino, Glendale, Granada Hills, Hidden Hills, Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach, North Hollywood, Northridge, Pasadena, Redondo Beach, Reseda, Santa Clarita, Santa Monica, Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Thousand Oaks, Torrance, Universal City, Valencia, Valley Village, Van Nuys, and West LA.  (818) 822-6773

Related reading from us: Fine Rug Cleaning In Los Angeles and Spring Cleaning 2018: What’s In Your Carpet?.

One topic that frequents our team is dog accidents.  Sometimes pet owners will tell us all of the remedies they have tried to remove a dog urine (or worse) stain that they found.  Typically, this conversation continues into ways of training dogs so that they won’t continue such behavior.  At AAA1 Carpet & Upholstery Care although our primary focus is carpet and upholstery cleaning, we have worked with a number of dog trainers to get information about eliminating unwanted pet behaviors.  We’ll cover a bit of both in this blog.  If you have a dog-caused stain on your carpeting now, give us a call so that it can be cleaned as soon as possible.  (818) 822-6773

How To Handle & Clean Doggie Accidents

By chance, if you catch your dog in the act of urinating or defecating on your carpet, don’t chastise them harshly.  Use the occasion as a teaching opportunity.  Show your dog to the appropriate area to relieve itself.  Doing so will help your dog to avoid using stealth to relief itself on your carpet.

Next, get a moist rag and dab the urine and/or waste up so that it does not dry into the carpet.  Allowing the carpet to dry (by using heating elements such as blow dryers) will only cause the pet waste to set in fibers of the carpeting.  Even after dabbing up the mess, it is still a great idea to call a professional carpet cleaner.  Why?  Pet urine can permeate to the padding of carpet.  If it is not extracted from this section of carpeting, bacteria can grow and permanent damage can occur.  This is also the main reason why some urine odors seem to persist in carpeting.

AAA1 Carpet & Upholstery Care features a pet urine & waste cleaning service that restores carpet after dog accidents.  Give us a call at (818) 822-6773.

 

You may also find these useful: Tips To Protect Your Floors During The Holidays—Part 1 and Fine Rug Cleaning In Los Angeles.

Sometimes carpet gets a bad name.  However, typically this is case when carpet is not maintained properly.  Our team at AAA1 Carpet & Upholstery Care provides systematic, environmental-friendly carpet cleaning.  When carpet is well-kept, there are a variety of benefits that it brings to homeowners.  A brief of some of those advantages are listed below.

Improving Indoor Air Quality

Flooring has a high-impact on indoor air quality due to VOC (volatile organic compounds).  VOCs can result in a number of health issues including:

• Irritations within the eyes, neck & throat
• Headaches
• Nausea & dizziness
• Kidney, liver and nervous system damages

Although VOCs cannot be wholly eliminated, they can be dramatically minimized.  Many homeowners are surprised to find out that carpet has the lowest VOC emissions among all flooring types.  Additionally, carpet helps to trap airborne particles (like dust, pet dander & pollen) by essentially acting as a filter.  When carpets are cleaned regularly they can reduce the symptoms of allergy and asthma suffers.

Noise Reduction

Carpet does an exceptional job at absorbing noise, especially when an added layer of cushioning (typically via a cushioning pad) is added underneath the carpet.  Homes that have more than one story can use carpets as sound barriers between floors.

Comfort, Safety & Warmth

Cold floors can be quite uncomfortable particularly in the winter.  Carpet insulates the floor and provides thermal resistance during the winter.  In addition to heat energy conservation, carpet is exceptionally comfortable to walk and sit on.  By the way carpet is constructed, falls as less frequent within a home and less harmful when they occur.

If you are considering a new flooriing type for your home, always compare carpet against other flooring choices.  You may be pleasantly surprised with what you discover!

Have questions about carpeting or need a professional cleaning?  Give AAA1 Carpet & Upholstery Care a call at (818) 822-6773.

 

More from our blog: Dealing With Dog Carpet Accidents and Tips To Protect Your Floors During The Holidays—Part 1.