You might usually clean your carpet only when stains appear or after several months pass between cleanings. But during outbreaks like the recent COVID-19 pandemic, you may wonder if you need to sanitize your carpet differently or more thoroughly.
The answer is yes — the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend disinfecting surfaces as a key method to prevent and control the spread of coronavirus and similar illnesses. This applies not only to frequently touched areas like doorknobs and countertops but also to high-traffic surfaces such as carpets, which can harbor bacteria, viruses, and other germs.
If you’re unsure where to begin when it comes to sanitizing your carpets and rugs, here are some helpful tips.
How to Sanitize Your Carpet
Start by vacuuming your carpet or rugs thoroughly before disinfecting. If possible, move furniture out of the way to clean the entire floor area. After removing dirt, dust, and allergens with the vacuum, apply a disinfecting carpet solution or use soap and water. For the deepest clean, a steam cleaner is highly recommended.
When selecting a cleaning product, make sure it is EPA-approved and designed specifically to kill viruses and germs. As a general guideline, disinfect your carpet at least twice a year. If you suspect someone in your household has been exposed to illness-causing pathogens, disinfect your carpets and rugs immediately to reduce the risk of spreading.
Tips to Keep Your Carpet Cleaner for Longer
After sanitizing and disinfecting, follow these steps to maintain cleanliness and extend the time between cleanings:
- Place washable mats both inside and outside entryways to trap dirt and bacteria before they reach your carpets.
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, and floors weekly to remove allergens, dirt, and germs.
- Encourage a no-shoes policy inside the home by setting up a shoe rack near the entrance.
- Regularly bathe your pets to reduce dirt and dander.
Professional Carpet Cleaning and Disinfection
If cleaning your carpets on your own feels overwhelming or time-consuming, consider hiring professional carpet cleaning services. At Longisland-CarpetCleaning, we have the expertise, equipment, and cleaning products to thoroughly sanitize your carpets. Our special Fresh Lemon cleaner eliminates bacteria, viruses, and germs while leaving a fresh scent. Plus, most carpets dry within 2-3 hours after service!
Your safety is our priority. Our technicians follow strict health protocols, including wearing face masks, maintaining social distancing, and offering contactless pickup, delivery, and payment options upon request.
