Pets bring joy, companionship, and sometimes, a bit of a mess. One common issue pet owners face is the accumulation of pet hair and odours in carpets and furniture. However, with the right tools and techniques, you can easily maintain a clean and fresh-smelling home. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of using a carpet cleaning machine, pet-specific carpet shampoo, and an enzyme odour neutraliser to keep your carpets and furniture pristine.
Why Use a Carpet Cleaning Machine?
Carpet cleaning machines are highly effective at deep cleaning, removing embedded pet hair, and neutralising odours. They are an affordable solution, especially when you consider that these machines can be hired at a low cost from many hardware stores or rental services. Here’s why they are the best choice:
- Deep Cleaning: Carpet cleaning machines penetrate deep into carpet fibers, ensuring thorough removal of dirt, hair, and dander.
- Cost-Effective: Renting a machine is much cheaper than professional cleaning services or replacing your carpets and furniture.
- Convenience: You can clean your home at your own pace without scheduling appointments or dealing with strangers in your home.
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Pet Hair and Odours
Materials Needed:
- Carpet cleaning machine (can be hired)
- Pet-specific carpet shampoo, We recommend Dirtbusters Pet Pro Carpet Cleaner Shampoo
- Enzyme odour neutraliser (to be added to the shampoo), We recommend Dirtbusters Pet Pro Odour Destroyer
- Pre-spray &/Or Spot Stain Remover, if required for stains and heavily soiled carpets.
- Vacuum cleaner
- Lint roller or pet hair remover brush
For help in choosing the right carpet cleaning solutions, you can take our quiz here, which suggest the right solution for your job.
Step 1: Preparation
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Vacuum Thoroughly: Before using the carpet cleaning machine, vacuum the carpets and furniture to remove as much loose pet hair and dirt as possible. Use a lint roller or a pet hair remover brush for upholstery and areas where hair tends to get embedded.
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Pre-Spray &/Or Spot Treatment: For heavily soiled & smelly carpets that have not been cleaned in a long time we recommend using a Pre-Spray to help achieve the best clean. For any stains and small marks we recommend treating these with the correct stain remover before you deep clean with a machine.
Step 2: Setting Up the Machine
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Read the Manual: Familiarise yourself with the carpet cleaning machine’s instructions to ensure you use it correctly and efficiently.
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Mix the Solution: Fill the machine’s tank with warm water and add the recommended amount of pet-specific carpet shampoo. Don’t forget to include the enzyme odour neutraliser in the mix. This addition is crucial for breaking down organic compounds and eliminating odours at the source.
Step 3: Cleaning
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Start Cleaning: Begin cleaning the carpets and furniture by moving the machine in a slow, steady motion. Overlap each pass slightly to ensure comprehensive coverage.
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Focus on Problem Areas: Pay extra attention to areas where your pets frequently spend time, such as their favorite napping spots.
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Allow to Dry: Once you have finished cleaning, allow the carpets and furniture to dry completely. Ensure good ventilation by opening windows or using fans, as this will speed up the drying process and help eliminate any residual moisture that could cause mould or mildew.
Step 4: Post-Cleaning Care
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Vacuum Again: Once the carpet is dry, vacuum again to lift the carpet fibers and remove any remaining hair or dirt that may have been brought to the surface during cleaning.
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Regular Maintenance: To keep your home pet-hair free and smelling fresh, regularly vacuum and use a lint roller on furniture. Consider setting a monthly schedule for deep cleaning with the carpet cleaning machine to maintain a consistently clean environment.
Conclusion
Using a carpet cleaning machine with pet-specific carpet shampoo and an enzyme odour neutraliser is the most effective and economical way to keep your carpets and furniture free of pet hair and odours. These machines are easily available for hire, making them accessible and affordable for everyone. With regular use and proper maintenance, you can enjoy a clean and fresh-smelling home despite sharing it with your furry friends.
Happy cleaning!