Maintenance Systems
Having purchased a new Gaskell Wool Rich carpet, it is natural to want to maintain its initial appearance as long as possible.
The carpets in the Gaskell Wool Rich collection are not given a secondary stain protection application since wool fibre itself has inherent, natural soil and stain resistant properties. Compared to other fibres, wool releases soil more easily in cleaning, and responds particularly well to vacuum cleaning. Dirt and spillages may be spot cleaned off a wool carpet more easily than off synthetic carpets. However, it is still necessary to prevent soiling as much as possible and to follow a regular cleaning schedule.
Daily Care
It is easier to remove surface dirt from a carpet than embedded dirt. The first requirement therefore is a light vacuuming, on a daily basis, to remove the surface dirt before it becomes embedded.
For cut-pile carpets one of the most effective cleaners is one with a strong suction and a revolving beater bar and brush, since this type not only removes surface dirt but also opens up the pile to remove loosely held embedded soil.
For loop-pile carpets (Rusticana Original, Rusticana Finesse and Natural Life), cleaners with rotating brushes should not be used, or should only be used after the brushes in the head have been retracted. Additionally, the Velcro strips commonly found on the heads of many vacuum cleaners should either be removed or taped over. Failure to follow this advice when cleaning loop pile carpets may cause pilling and / or a general fuzzing of the surface texture of the carpet pile.
Weekly cleaning
All carpeted areas should be given a thorough vacuum cleaning at least once a week.
Seasonal cleaning
There are several methods available for the seasonal cleaning of carpets including spray extraction (so called steam cleaning), rotary brush shampooing, dry foam cleaning and dry powder systems. The method chosen and the frequency of cleaning depends on the intensity of traffic, the nature of the soiling and the type of carpet. This type of cleaning is best left to the professional.
Further advice on approved professional cleaners is obtainable from the National Carpet Cleaners Association, Tel. 0116 271 9550
Stain removal
No matter how careful a person is, sooner or later carpets will become stained as a result of spillage and domestic mishaps. Prompt and correct treatment will remove many of these stains and leave the carpet in a satisfactory state.
The golden rule with stains is to act quickly to remove the spilt substance before it penetrates the carpet pile. Stains which have been allowed to dry are more difficult if not impossible to remove.
Before applying any special treatment it is important to remove as much of the spillage as possible. In the case of liquids use a clean dry undyed cotton cloth or absorbent paper towels. Semi-solids and greasy materials should be removed with a spoon or back of a knife.
If the above action is taken quickly little penetration will have taken place and a final wipe over with a damp cloth, leaving the pile sloping in the correct direction, may be all that is needed to remove the stain. Any residual stains may be treated by either one of the following methods.
Water-based stains: e.g. tea, coffee, fruit juice, wine.
Always clean up a spill immediately. Do not spread the spill. If liquid, blot up as much as possible with a clean absorbent cloth or tissues. Pressing firmly, blot until no more liquid is easily removed.
If a stain is still apparent, dampen the area with clean water using a clean cloth or sponge without overwetting.
Repeat blotting. If a stain is still apparent dampen a cloth or sponge with water and a good proprietary brand carpet shampoo (diluting according to label). Apply to the stained area and blot until the stain has been removed. Then re-wet the stained area with clean water until all the shampoo has been removed.
Blot dry the area with a dry cloth or tissue. When the clean spot is almost dry, gently brush the area in one direction (high pile carpets only).
N.B. Some substances contain chemicals or bleaches which can permanently mark some carpet fibres.
Very hot tea or coffee, if not attended to quickly, may leave a stain and professional cleaning will be necessary.
Do not use washing-up liquid as this can leave sticky residues in the carpet and attract dirt.
Oil-based spills: e.g. butter, salad oil, cream
Always clean up a spill immediately.
If liquid, blot up as much as possible with a dry cloth or tissue. If solid, remove as much as possible with a spoon.
Dampen a cloth or sponge with a good proprietary brand carpet shampoo (diluting according to label) and apply to the stained area. Blot until the stain has been removed. Repeat if necessary. Then re-wet the stained area with clean water until all the shampoo has been removed. Do not over wet.
Blot dry the area with a dry cloth or tissue. When the cleaned spot is almost dry, gently brush the area in one direction (high pile carpets only).
Very heavy oil based spills may not be fully removed by this method and professional cleaning will be necessary.
Do not use washing-up liquid as this can leave sticky residues in the carpet and attract dirt.
If you are unable to remove a stain or spill, consult a professional carpet cleaner or your local supplier.
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