Vacuuming - Why It's Important

Whether you're cleaning out the spare bedroom or just tidying up around the house, it is important that dirt and dust are removed, not simply moved around or thrown back into the breathing zone. Properly vacuuming carpet is the easiest and most effective way to keep your carpet clean. It may be surprising, but something so simple as regular vacuuming can also have the largest impact on the cleanliness of your home and the air you breathe.

The Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) recommends vacuuming often that receive the most traffic, such as hallways, stairs, and exterior entryways in the home. Ideally, vacuum all the floor coverings a minimum of once a week, and the high traffic areas more often, based on usage. If you have pets, you may need to vacuum some areas daily. Removing loose soil while it remains on the carpet's surface is important so that it is not walked into the carpet pile.

Use a vacuum cleaner that effectively removes soil and minimizes generating dust from the filter and around the machine while keeping the carpet looking good.

For maximum effectiveness, use a vacuum cleaner with adjustable and rotating brushes that can loosen ground-in soil and has a strong enough airflow to penetrate to the backing, removing all particles. The vacuum cleaner should have an enclosed, high filtration bag that limits particles re-circulating into the air. Regularly using a CRI Green Label vacuum cleaner will maintain a cleaner indoor environment. For the best results, no matter what type vacuum cleaner you purchase, inspect it periodically to be sure it is functioning properly:

• Keep brushes clean and replace them when worn.
• Keep vacuum hoses and attachments free of obstructions that restrict airflow.
• Inspect the vacuum head for rough edges or bent metal that may damage your carpet.
• Inspect belts frequently to make certain they are working properly.
• Always keep a spare belt for replacement as needed.
• Follow the vacuum cleaner manufacturer's instructions, and change the filter bag when it reaches the "full line."

This article was taken from the Carpet and Rug Institute pamphlet entitled: "Carpet and Rug Care Guide." For more information check out our website http://www.chem-dry.net/sunshine.fl