If you own a small business and try to cut down on costs, then you likely clean the space yourself several times a week. If your business is carpeted, then it is extremely important to clean the carpeting on a regular basis. This will help to extend the life of your flooring. Carpets must be cleaned often, because customers and employees track dirt across the flooring material. Dirt particles are hard and they often have sharp edges. These edges cut the soft fibers of your carpet and damage continues to occur as shoes grind the debris across the floor. Good vacuuming techniques are required for cleaning, so follow the tips below.

Set the Height Properly

Most vacuum cleaners have a variety of settings that allow you to elevate and lower the brush mechanism that sits underneath the cleaner. Some people choose to set the brush at its lowest setting so the brush can reach deep into the carpeting to reach as much dirt as possible. It is true that a low brush will release more dirt, but it will also damage the carpeting fibers.

The brush is covered with long and sharp plastic needles that cut and fray the polyester, wool, or cotton fibers of your carpeting. The brush is meant to push dirt away from the top of the fabric and the brushing motion safely pushes the fibers aside when the height is set correctly. The air flow created by the vacuum then forces the dirt up and away from the carpet.

To set the brush height properly, place it on the highest setting and turn on your vacuum. Slowly drop the brush a little at a time and wait until you feel the vacuum trying to move forward. Stop adjusting the brush once this happens.

Use a Clean Bag

When you vacuum, you should make two passes over high traffic areas to release dirt and debris. The first pass allows the rotating brush to release dirt on the surface of the carpet. Once the debris is removed, the suction power of the appliance forces the deep seated dirt upward. If suction is not strong enough, then it may take three or more passes to remove all the debris.

Poor vacuum suction is often caused by a dirty bag inside the cleaner. As air passes through the vacuum cleaner, dirt and air pass through the bag. The bag is made out of a mesh material that contains small holes. The small holes retain proper suction within the vacuum cleaner. The bag can become full or covered with dirt and this will reduce air flow and suction. You can prevent this by using a new bag every time you clean. It is also wise to clean out filters as well once a week.

Go for a Deep Clean

It is wise to use your vacuum cleaner to remove the majority of the debris from your carpeting. Your vacuum will occasionally not be strong enough to release stains and greasy debris, and this means that you need to shampoo the carpeting. If you notice grease on your carpeting, then it is especially important to deep clean the area. Most oils are considered flammable liquids that will use your carpeting fibers as a source of fuel. Grease and oil can also break down natural fabrics and destroy your carpeting.

Even the most common stain removal solutions that are used to remove grease can damage your flooring. Vinegar, soda, acetone, and other acids can break down the rubber pad and the adhesive material that keeps your carpeting intact. Instead of using these methods, rent a carpet shampoo machine to use in your office.

If you have carpeting within your business, then you should make sure to keep the flooring as clean as possible. This will prevent the need for replacements. Your vacuum cleaner is your best tool to remove the dirt from the floor, but you should follow the tips above to clean properly. If your carpet is already damaged from being left dirty or being cleaned improperly, then click here for more info on carpet replacements for your business.