What Exactly IS the Proper Way to Vacuum?

Many of you may be saying to yourself, “I didn’t realize there was a WRONG way to vacuum.”

Surprisingly, there are several vacuuming faux pas, which I will get into a little later.

Regular vacuuming is the single best way to keep your carpets conditioned to last a long time. Although we may not feel like vacuuming because we don’t see any debris on the ground, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s not there. Surface dirt can very easily get pushed down into the carpets by stomping feet, which gives the carpets a dingy or dulled appearance. Vacuuming regularly also improves the indoor air quality of your home, which is a plus for those who suffer with allergies or have small children or elderly that live with them.

So what exactly IS the proper way to vacuum? Here are some tips to keep your carpets in shape and looking beautiful for years to come:

•Like I said before, vacuum OFTEN. How often? In high traffic areas such as the living room, you should vacuum at least 2-3 times per week (more, if you have pets or children.) In lower traffic areas such as a utility room or a bedroom, once a week should do the trick.

•This may sound too easy, but take the time to really read your vacuum manual and learn all the parts and what they’re used for. You’ll be amazed at how much better and quicker you’ll be able to get things done if you know the proper uses of the tools.

•Dust all blinds and furniture first so you can pick up any dust that fell while you vacuum.

•Pick up all jewelry, small toys, paperclips, bobby pins, or anything else that is small enough to be picked up by the vacuum cleaner. If you keep vacuuming these non dust or dirt items, your vacuum’s belt will wear out and you’ll have to replace it.

•Start with the very back corner of your home and move forward toward the front door in small, slow, repetitive motions. If you have more than one story to vacuum, then start with the top. You’ll save energy and you can get the stairs on the way down.

•Wear shoes as little as possible when you’re indoors.  (Why would you want to anyway?)

•Keep mats at every entrance to your home to pick up dirt and dust.

•Choose a quality vacuum cleaner that you know will last a long time.

Finally, my last tip is to not solely rely on your vacuum cleaner for great looking and long-lasting carpets. In order to keep carpets looking their best, you need to get a professional carpet cleaning for your home at least once a year.