Think for a moment the last time you and the family went to the beach.  After a day of fun in the sun, swimming and boggie boarding it was time to load up the family car and head back home. Depsite everyone’s best efforts I am willing to bet the family car was full of sand. Once you get home all it takes is a quick shake of your swimsuit to get all of the sand out. While your swimsuit was wet, it was virtually impossible to get all of the sand out, even when you rinsed it in water. When the swimsuit was dry, however, just a good shake is enought to get it all out!

Believe it or not, your carpet is just like your swimsuit. According to the Institute for Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, nearly 80% of all carpet soil is easier to remove with dry soil extracting. In other words, vacuuming. The fact is, sand, hair and many other primary sources of carpet soil are insoulable in water.

In an ideal world, you should vacuum your carpets daily, especially the areas of your carpet that receive high traffic such as entry ways and hallways. However, with our busy lifestyles today Heaven’s Best recommends vacuuming at least once a week.  Soil particles act like sandpaper in between your carpet fibers and will quickly and premanently wear out your carpet’s appearance.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind while vacuuming your carpet.

1. Move the vacuum slowly. The slower the vacuum moves, the more the brush agitates each carpet fiber, and the more opportunity for the airflow to grab each soil particle.
2. Use overlapping strokes. The amount of suction can vary between the right, center and left side of your vacuum. Overlapping strokes will maximize the amount of dust removed.
3. Empty the bag or cannister when it is 1/2  – 2/3 full. Very fine dust clogs the pores in the bag long before it is full, reducing suction.

Happy Vacuuming!!

Carpet and Upholstery Cleanings Are Key!

Well maintained carpet and upholstery help to ensure a healthy home by reducing the amount of dust and allergens that are present. Simple modifications to your daily routine may help you keep germs that cause infections, like the cold and flu, and allergens at bay. Heaven’s Best ensures your carpets and upholstery are as beautiful, clean and healthy as possible all year long.

Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Home:

1. Clean and/or replce air filters frequently
2. Keep the humidity in your home below 50% by using a dehumidifier or air conditioner. This will prevent the growth of mold.
3. Aviod using fans whenever possible as they are sure to stir up dust.
4. Sweep entrance mats regularly to reduce the amount of dust and soil tracked inside.
5. Vacuum your carpets, floors and upholstery at least twice a week. Frequent vacuuming prolongs the life of your carpet by preventing the build up of gritty particles that cut the carpet fibers.
6. Wash bed linens and coverings weekly in hot (130F) water.
7. Have your mattreses and box srpings professionally cleaned and then encase them in allergen impermeable covers.
8. If you have pets, consider keeping them outside if possible. Animal dander and saliva are allergens for many people. Be sure to bathe your pets often.
9. Do not allow smoking in your home.

By doing these simple things you can make your home environment healthier and safer for you and your family.