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Keeping Your Carpet Clean in the Winter is Tough - But Salt is Even Tougher on Carpet

Clean carpet is something most homeowners strive for and each new season presents new challenges and obstacles to that clean carpet. When there is snow and ice there is salt, calcium chloride and in some instances sand added to that mix. While the salt and chemicals work wonders for keeping ice off of walkways and driveways, they wreak havoc on our carpet.

When left unattended, salt and calcium chloride not only stain the carpet but also lead to discoloration and damage the carpet fibers. The salt penetrates the carpet fibers, typically nylon or wool, and causes them to breakdown much faster than what is considered normal wear and tear. The longer the salt stays in the carpet, the more salt damage occurs. Salt and carpet simply do not mix.

Keep your carpet clean by using a simple solution of white vinegar and warm water. Before you begin to clean the salt stains, make sure you thoroughly vacuum the area to remove any freestanding particles of dirt and salt. If not removed, the salt and dirt will simply dissolve when exposed to the water mixture leaving you a bigger stain to clean up than when you started.

Combine equal parts of white vinegar and warm water in a bucket or bucket. Keeping the carpet as dry as possible is key, so avoid using a spray bottle to apply the mixture. Dip a sponge in the water and vinegar mixture so it is wet rather than soaking, and scrub the stain. Let the homemade cleaning solution sit on the salt stain for approximately 15 minutes then use a clean towel to press against the carpet and remove any excess water.

Repeat the sponge and towel technique again to remove the remaining stain if necessary. After the carpet stain is satisfactorily removed, simply press a dry, clean towel on the area to continue removing the moisture. Getting as much moisture out as possible is important to avoid additional carpet stains.

For more information and tips on keeping your home ready to sell in the Northwest Washington, Chevy Chase, Bethesda, Trinidad or Palisades area, contact Buckman Realtor. With more than 25 years living in the Northern Virginia area, Michelle Buckman can help you find the home you need in the neighborhood you want.