Carpet fibers often become matted and frayed within just 3-5 years. A carpet can only be expected to last 5-15 years from installation, so if your carpet it starting to look a little beat-up then it's probably time to replace it. Areas that see the most wear and tear are usually the hallways, stairs, and living areas.
Generally carpet is replaced every 6-7 years. If maintained properly it can last in excess of 10 years! This means many carpets, especially those in busier homes, may need updating more frequently.
Density is determined by the thickness of the fibers and how tightly packed they are. The thicker and heavier they are, the better quality the carpet and the less susceptible to crushing. Bend the carpet sample backward (Photo). If you can see the backing easily, it's a low-density (lower quality) carpet.
In general, the more dense the carpet the better the quality. Check density by pressing your fingers on the carpet and trying to reach the backing. It will be difficult to reach the backing of a very dense carpet. With the tufts facing outward, bend the carpet into a U shape to see how much of the carpet backing shows.
Twisted pile carpet is the most popular style of carpet and comes in a large variety of colors. The yarn has been tightly twisted and the loops are cut to become this style of carpeting.
Old carpet also increases your risk of asthma attacks. The allergens in old carpet can reduce the indoor air quality of your home and trigger asthma attacks just like they trigger nasal congestion, sneezing, itchy eyes, and other allergic reactions.
Scientists believe thousands of dust mites can survive on one ounce of carpet dust. Dangerous germs found in carpets can make you ill. The Norovirus, linked to causing stomach flu, can survive on an uncleaned carpet for more than one month. But using an older vacuum can cause more harm than good.
Bedrooms, especially those with carpet, should be vacuumed at least once a week and twice a week during allergy season. Less-often used spaces such as guest rooms, sunrooms, or formal dining rooms can be vacuumed less frequently or just before you're expecting company.
In general, carpet that is more than 20 years old should be replaced. Dust, dirt and debris build up in the fibers and underneath the carpet, even if it is maintained regularly. This can lead to allergy problems and odors. By the time a carpet reaches 30 years old, it usually is worn and stained.
A simple way that you can check for mold is to use a mold testing kit. The mold testing kit works by testing the airflow in your carpet. If there are any mold spores in your carpet, then they will land on the kit.
In general, it's a good idea to replace your carpet pad once every five years. If you let it go longer than this, you're going to be more likely to need costly repairs. You might also be more prone to some of the issues mentioned above, such as mold growth or carpet lumps.
Vacuum cleaners are perfect for use on carpets and other surfaces made up of fabrics. Sweeping is incapable when washing carpets for the fibers. Special vacuum cleaners may even manage waters to help eliminate spills and stains. On the other hand, brooms are inefficient in removing liquid.
Typically, vacuuming does not damage carpet and is actually a safe and effective tool for cleaning dirt and grime from carpets. Some may argue that vacuums are the best cleaning tools for carpets because they suck deeply embedded dirt and dust from carpets without fraying or damaging the material.
When doing your thorough cleaning, dust the room before vacuuming so you can vacuum up the particles that float into the air as you work and settle on the floor.
Carpets are a catch-all for dirt, with dust mites, pet hair, pet urine, dead skin cells, dust, insect feces, insect husks, bacteria, mold, volatile organic compounds, and many other types of allergens clinging to the fibers.
Wall-to-wall carpeting, as well as area rugs, can provide an ample breeding ground for mold if conditions are right. At especially high risk for mold growth are carpeting located below ground level in basements, carpet in commonly moist or damp climates, and carpet that has been wet for any period of time.
There will be some form of mold or mold spores left behind even after the most thorough cleaning. The only way to prevent mold from forming again is to keep the carpet very dry. The area should be well-ventilated, with low humidity. You should also vacuum often.
The carpet is old
If you notice matting, fading color or that the padding just doesn't feel like it's there anymore, it's probably time to move on. If you see ripples or wrinkles, it is possible to have your carpet re-stretched.
Wash all sheets, blankets, pillowcases and bedcovers in hot water that is at least 130 F (54.4 C) to kill dust mites and remove allergens. If bedding can't be washed hot, put the items in the dryer for at least 15 minutes at a temperature above 130 F (54.4 C) to kill the mites.
Off-gassing materials emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and small particulate substances throughout the life of the material. This can cause many of the symptoms you're experiencing including headaches, nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath, and asthmatic reactions.
Though hardwood is incredibly popular, carpeting is making a comeback, in part due to the innovative new options on the market. Carpet is a great choice for bedrooms, dens, or basements where hardwood can feel too cold and sterile, or any room where there is a risk of water damage.
While some consider it outdated, berber is known for being one of the oldest and most durable kinds of carpet. Berber carpeting is typically found in low maintenance, high-traffic areas, like basements.
Your wall color should be two tones lighter than your carpet. If you have dark walls, you can also go a few tones lighter with your carpet. Since it's much easier to change your wall color than your carpet, choose your carpet color first and then match your wall color.
Don't Swiffer sweep without vacuuming first
The Swiffer Sweeper pads will do a better job picking up dirt on floors when the larger dust bunnies are out of the way, so a quick pick-up or vacuum job beforehand could help your duster pack a mightier punch.