Carpets N More

Nylon clearly holds the top spot as the most popular fiber for high-performing carpet, but did you know that olefin (also called polypropylene) actually accounts for nearly 80% of business carpet sold? In a tough economy, and at around a 20% lower cost than a similarly constructed nylon, olefin carpets are now being considered much more often for the home. Typical residential styles for olefins will be berber loops, which means multi-color, multi-level loop pile construction, often in earth tones. The identification “berber” actually descends from the name of an ancient North African people famous for their woven fabrics of more than 2 colors and textures.

There are some significant benefits to olefin besides its incredibly low price. One main advantage is the colorfast, fade-resistant quality of the fiber. Because color is introduced while the material is still in a liquid state, prior to extrusion into fiber, it can easily withstand direct sunlight or exposure to strong agents like chlorine bleach. Other qualities of olefin are that it is both static and mold resistant, making it a good candidate for recreation rooms, screened-in patios or even basements.

Nonetheless, olefin does also bring some challenges. It is highly susceptible to staining from oil-based materials, which is why you should never attempt to utilize a solvent-based stain protection product. Also, olefin has a low melting point, allowing for the fiber to actually melt and leave permanent damage from friction caused by something heavy being dragged over the face of the carpet. Finally, olefin fibers will crush and mat in areas of high traffic.

Protecting your new carpet shouldn’t be a chore. Just a few practices can keep your carpet looking good. First, review the carpet manufacturer’s warranty for their requirements. Some manufacturers now require periodic professional steam extraction to keep their warranty in force.

Entryways, according to studies, are the primary source of soil entering your home. Since about 80% of soil arrives on your floor in the first 4-6 steps from outside, good walkoff mats and entry rugs will significantly reduce the amount of soil making it onto your floors.

Vacuuming regularly—daily in traffic areas—is the next best thing you can do to protect your carpet. Dirt particles have sharp edges that can gash and abrade carpet fibers, leading to a crushed and matted look. A good vacuum with strong suction and beater bars will remove most of these particles. If your vacuum has bags, change them often.

Every 12-24 months, have your carpets professionally hot water extracted. The home models generally don’t have enough power, heat or suction to adequately clean and remove the dirty water and cleaning solution.

Address spills and spots immediately! Blot water-based spills from the outside to the center, using a clean, white, absorbent cloth. Use a neutral pH cleaner and rinse afterward to remove any residues. Dry well and vacuum before walking on the spot.

For oil-based spills/stains, cover the spot completely with cornstarch, baking soda or baby powder and allow it to sit overnight. Vacuum in the morning. If you can still see the stain, repeat this process, then follow the procedure above for water-based stains.

Two questions have to be asked before you clean your carpets. The first is whether to use steam or dry cleaning? The second is whether you do it yourself?

When it is done properly, steam cleaning is likely the best choice—and the one most often recommended by carpet manufacturers. “Done properly” means that the water is hot enough, the technician is appropriately trained (best if he’s IICRC Certified), the cleaning products are right for your carpet and the cleaning equipment is in good working order, especially the vacuum. When a truck-mounted vacuum works correctly, it will retrieve up to 95% of the moisture used in cleaning your carpet. This dramatically increases the effectiveness of the cleaning and reduces drying time for the carpet.

It is best not to try steam cleaning on your own. The great majority of tools available for rent or purchase for home use don’t generate enough heat for the water or power to retrieve what water they spray into your carpet. They often work well for spot-cleaning, but for a true deep extraction cleaning, it is best to utilize an experienced professional who operates a truck-mounted steam unit. Remember that for steam to reach your carpet, the water temp has to start at about 250 degrees!

It is also critical that all the cleaning agents are rinsed and removed, and that your carpet isn’t over-wetted. Overwetting can cause wrinkles or backing separation; cleaner residues left in your carpet will accelerate future soiling!

Reader Question:

Help! My massage therapist is about to head to the grocery store to buy all of the carpet cleaners she can in order to attempt to remove a massage oil mishap on our carpet! What should we do? Our carpet is really nice (and new) and I don’t want to ruin it!

- Thanks, Dr. Allie from Denver , CO

Answer:

Dear Allie,

Stop that therapist! Don’t let her run out the door yet and waste your money or her time! Below is how you should treat this stain. First, the most important thing is to NOT use multiple cleaners on top of each other when you don’t like the result of the first one. This can cause a reaction and permanently damage your carpet. Second, if you try anything other than the detergent option, test first in a closet for colorfastness. Use a white rag only. Third, remember more is not always better. Drowning a stain can only dilute it and make it spread.

Here’s your answer:

Nail Polish Remover – Two types of nail polish removers are available. One type contains acetone, a dry cleaning solvent. Use the same precautions as with other dry cleaning solutions. The second type contains amyl acetate, which is used in many paint, oil, and grease (POG) removers. Many POG removers leave residues that may cause rapid soiling. When using a POG remover, always rinse the area thoroughly with a dry solvent. (See Residue Precautions.)

Solvent – A non-flammable spot removal solution, or dry cleaning type solvent, is preferred. Exercise caution when using a solvent. Never pour it directly onto the carpet or allow it to reach the backing, because it can damage the latex that holds the primary and secondary backings together. Acceptable solvents include Carbona®, Energine®, K2R®, Goof-Off®, etc.

Detergent Solution – Mix one fourth (1/4) teaspoon of a liquid dishwashing detergent per one (1) cup of lukewarm water. NEVER USE A STRONGER CONCENTRATION! Thorough rinsing is necessary to remove detergent residues that may cause rapid soiling. It may be necessary to rinse with warm water several times to completely remove residues. (See Residue Precautions.) Care should be used in selecting a detergent. Never use a laundry detergent of any type, because laundry detergents may contain optical brighteners (fluorescent dyes) that dye the fiber. Do not select an automatic dishwashing detergent because many contain bleaching agents that destroy dyes and some fibers.

Warm Water – Lukewarm tap water should be used in most cases to rinse the cleaning solutions from the fiber. Failure to completely rinse the solutions from the fiber may cause accelerated soiling.

Ammonia Solution – Mix one (1) tablespoon of household ammonia per cup of water. Please note: Be aware that ammonia, if used improperly, can cause a color change. Be sure to test a hidden area.

http://www.carpetsnmorecolorado.com/contentpage.aspx?Id=16797#Oil,%20Lubricating

For more stain solving tips, click here.

Thanks for doing the right thing and asking an expert first!

We have touted wool carpets as being among the most luxurious options you have for carpet in your home. When you’ve spent more money on wool, you want to maintain it correctly! The single most effective method of maintenance on wool carpet is regular vacuuming.

One of the most common issues with wool carpet is a red wine spill. Have you heard it said that if you want to treat a red wine spill on wool carpet, you pour some white wine on it? Don’t do it! Not only will it be a waste of some good white wine, it will simply spread your problem!

The best way to treat a wine spill (or any water-based staining agent) is to immediately soak up as much of the spill as possible with an absorbent cloth or paper. Start at the outer edges of the spill and work your way to the center, blotting rather than rubbing. This is important! Blot, don’t rub! If you can still see the spot after blotting, use a spot remover specifically designed for water-based stains on wool, like any spot removers that carry a WoolSafe® label. In particular, do not use regular detergents, as they will likely leave a residue that will cause soiling quickly at the spot of the stain.

For oily stains, don’t be afraid to use a dry cleaning solvent (again, best with a WoolSafe® label). Remember that most high-quality wool garments recommend dry cleaning! Just be sure that you use the solvent sparingly as it can damage the backing of your carpet.

When you say, “polyester,” do you mean just plain polyester, PET polyester or PTT polyester? There is lots of confusion about what the terms really mean. Recently, most of the polyester fibers used for carpet construction have been of the PET variety. PET polyester is manufactured primarily from used plastic soda bottles. It is an improved fiber over the original polyester, but still retains some of the performance issues, about which you may have heard stories.

The high points of PET carpets are that they are inexpensive, and the fiber is highly colorfast and resistant to water-based stains (though susceptible to oil-based stains).  Additionally, there is a particularly soft and lush feel (carpet folks call it good “hand”) to new polyester carpet. The main complaints about carpets made from this fiber are that they crush and mat quickly, and that oil-based stains are difficult – if not impossible to remove.

PTT polyester is a late generation fiber refined and introduced by DuPont in 2000, under the trade name Sorona. It has some interesting characteristics, like 37% renewable resource content (corn-based) and reported extra stain and performance capabilities over earlier generations of polyester. Because of its unique performance characteristics in carpet construction, the FTC (in March, 2009) authorized the new generic fiber name and classification, Triexta. Mohawk’s Smartstrand carpets are manufactured from this fiber.

According to DuPont and Mohawk, carpets constructed from triexta fibers will perform every bit as well as nylon – and yet retain the soft feel (the hand) and stain-resistance of polyester.

Sorry guys, this one is for the ladies. (Although Adam Lambert from American Idol may have changed all of that!) Have you ever been in a hurry and dropped your mascara on your carpet? Don’t worry, we’ve got the solution. Take a look at these simple steps and you’ll be able to tackle that stain with no problem.

Here’s all you have to do! Follow these simple guidelines:

Solvent – A non-flammable spot removal solution, or dry cleaning type solvent, is preferred. Exercise caution when using a solvent. Never pour it directly onto the carpet or allow it to reach the backing, because it can damage the latex that holds the primary and secondary backings together. Acceptable solvents include Carbona®, Energine®, K2R®, Goof-Off®, etc.

Detergent Solution – Mix one fourth (1/4) teaspoon of a liquid dishwashing detergent per one (1) cup of lukewarm water. NEVER USE A STRONGER CONCENTRATION! Thorough rinsing is necessary to remove detergent residues that may cause rapid soiling. It may be necessary to rinse with warm water several times to completely remove residues. (See Residue Precautions.) Care should be used in selecting a detergent. Never use a laundry detergent of any type, because laundry detergents may contain optical brighteners (flourescent dyes) that dye the fiber. Do not select an automatic dishwashing detergent because many contain bleaching agents that destroy dyes and some fibers.

Warm Water – Lukewarm tap water should be used in most cases to rinse the cleaning solutions from the fiber. Failure to completely rinse the solutions from the fiber may cause accelerated soiling.

Call a Professional – Professional cleaners have the ability and the equipment to use more aggressive cleaning solutions to remove stubborn spills. Always consider consulting a professional cleaner regarding any spot removal question. The Carpet and Rug Institute is a great resource- 1-800-882-8846.

Wool, the original fiber used to make textiles of all types, including carpet, is an amazing fiber with incredible characteristics, with a documented history dating back to around 4,000BC. Alexander Smith & Sons, one of the largest carpet manufacturers in the world up to the end of WWII, was at one time the largest employer in Yonkers, New York – producing over 26,000 square yards of woven wool carpets per day. However, the introduction of nylon during the war had a dramatic impact on wool carpet production. As a result, wool carpets today account for only a fraction of the overall carpet production – but they are some of the most beautiful and sought-after carpets in the world!

There are a host of things you’ll love about wool carpets. They hide soil brilliantly, and even when soiled, release dirt easily with most standard commercial cleaning methods available today. Wool carpets, when constructed well and maintained reasonably, will never “ugly out.” Also, because of the fiber’s unique ability to accept dyes, you can find wool carpets in dramatically bright and compelling colors. Lastly, wool is a safe carpet, recognized as non-allergenic and will not burn (it is naturally self-extinguishing).

One of the down sides of wool carpets is that they are expensive.  Another difficulty with wool is its susceptibility to stain. Because wool accepts dyes so readily (giving the deep, rich colors), it will also “accept” stain agents like red wine or fruit drinks. If you have the budget and the discipline to protect against staining agents, you will absolutely love your wool carpet!

Below is an interview with Design Consultant Karin Stalteri. Please read on to get to know Karin a little better!

What is your name and position with Carpets N More? Karin Stalteri – Design Consultant / Residential Contract Manager. I work in a dual role both as a design consultant meeting with customers to pick out their flooring and countertops as well as manage residential builder accounts.

How long have you been with the company? A little over 2 years

What is your favorite thing about Carpets N More? Getting to use my creativity

What do you think makes Carpets N More unique? We are able to provide our customers with great pricing because we do so much volume as opposed to some other stores and design centers that have very little work and are not able to pass on or provide their customers with these types of discounts and pricing.

Do you have a memorable customer experience that you can share? Just about every experience is memorable. I always enjoy the ones where people really care about their home and having it be something special.  I encourage people to take the time to really make smart choices that they are going to love now and for years to come.

Why should a customer choose Carpets N More over a box store or another retail store? Better pricing and customer service

What is the best part about your position? Helping people create a unique home.

If there’s one thing you could tell past, current or future customers, what would it be? Seal your grout and don’t get carpet that is too light!

What’s your favorite floor in your home and why? My entryway. I have a custom made medallion and it creates a great first impression.

If you could have any product that Carpets N More sells in your home what would it be? Antico Hardwood

It’s almost Easter! If you love to dye Easter eggs, but hate the worry of wondering what to do if you spill the dye on the carpet, stop worrying! Below are simple and easy guidelines to follow if you have a spill with Easter egg dye. You always want to treat spills as soon as possible and follow the instructions closely.

Detergent Solution – Mix one fourth (1/4) teaspoon of a liquid dishwashing detergent per one (1) cup of lukewarm water. NEVER USE A STRONGER CONCENTRATION! Thorough rinsing is necessary to remove detergent residues that may cause rapid soiling. It may be necessary to rinse with warm water several times to completely remove residues.  Care should be used in selecting a detergent. Never use a laundry detergent of any type, because laundry detergents may contain optical brighteners (flourescent dyes) that dye the fiber. Do not select an automatic dishwashing detergent because many contain bleaching agents that destroy dyes and some fibers.

Warm Water – Lukewarm tap water should be used in most cases to rinse the cleaning solutions from the fiber. Failure to completely rinse the solutions from the fiber may cause accelerated soiling.

Ammonia Solution – Mix one (1) tablespoon of household ammonia per cup of water. Please note: Be aware that ammonia, if used improperly, can cause a color change. Be sure to test a hidden area.

Not sure? Call a Professional – Professional cleaners have the ability and the equipment to use more aggressive cleaning solutions to remove stubborn spills. Always consider consulting a professional cleaner regarding any spot removal question. Carpet and Rug Institute – 1-800-882-8846.