CARING WOOL CARPETS

Cleaning Dirt

There are generally two types of soil. The first is dry soil, including substances like grit and sand, which fall to the bottom of the carpet. This type of substance is abrasive, so if it’s not removed it will start to damage fibres over time. Regular vacuuming will remove all dry soil.

The second type of soil is best described as ‘sticky’, which includes any dirt brought into the house on shoes and air pollution. This type of soil can attract more dirt (known as re-soiling) if not periodically removed.

So it’s also a good idea to have your carpet cleaned professionally – annually or every couple of years depending on level of usage – to remove general sticky soil which accumulates on any floor surface over time.

Spills and Stains

For liquid spills, follow the steps below:

Soak up as much of the spill as possible, using a clean, absorbent cloth, until there is no more transfer to the cloth. It’s important to remember to blot rather than scrub – scrubbing will push the stain further into the pile and damage the fibres.

Use water or a WoolSafe approved cleaning spray (which is colour, fibre and re-soiling safe) to complete removal of the spill. Spray this onto the cloth first, and then dab the spill. Another important point to remember – spray the cloth rather than the floor. Spraying directly on the carpet will drive the stain deeper and wider.

As a general rule, dealing with spills as they happen is best, as dried in stains are always more difficult to remove from any fibre. It also helps to be prepared with the right information for dealing with different types of spills – wine, felt tip, tea etc.

For more information, visit the WoolSafe