Thanksgiving is next month. Can you believe it? According to a 2022 Black and Decker survey, 48% of Americans are willing to skip a day of work to clean house so they can host a festive event for the holidays. That’s some real dedication to clean, and we like it. During holiday gatherings, and all its festivities, your carpets can sometimes take a hit. Whether it’s spilled wine, dropped food, or muddy footprints from guests, you can have a mess on your hands. But don’t worry about it. Here are a few tips for carpet (and emotional) survival during the holidays and beyond.

1. Regular Maintenance Matters

Proper carpet maintenance is essential year-round but becomes even more crucial during the holiday season when your carpets face increased traffic and potential spills. Vacuuming regularly is the simplest and most effective way to maintain your carpets. 

Here are some additional maintenance tips:

Use doormats: Place doormats at entrances to trap dirt and debris before they can make their way onto your carpets.

Remove shoes: Some guests will do this anyway. But if you feel comfortable asking, you can encourage family members or guests to remove their shoes at the door. This simple step can significantly reduce dirt and stains on carpet.

Schedule professional cleanings: Consider scheduling a professional carpet cleaning before the holiday season begins. Professionals can deep clean your carpets, removing embedded dirt and stains that regular vacuuming and spot cleaning can’t address.

2. Act Quickly to Prevent Permanent Stains

The longer a stain sits on your carpet, the more challenging it becomes to remove. So we hope if someone spills something, they let you know about it. 

To prevent permanent stains:

• Blot, don’t rub: When a spill occurs, resist the urge to vigorously rub. Instead, gently blot it with a clean cloth or paper towels. Rubbing can push the stain deeper into the carpet fibers, making it harder to remove.

• Use the right cleaning solution: Different stains require different cleaning solutions. For instance, use a mild detergent mixed with water for most stains. For red wine or coffee, try a mixture of water, vinegar, and dish soap. Always test any cleaning solution in an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the carpet’s color or texture.

• Work from the outside in: When cleaning a stain, start by working from the outside of the stain towards the center. This helps prevent the stain from spreading further.

3. Invest in Carpet Protection

To safeguard your carpets during the holidays and beyond, consider investing in carpet protection products. Scotchgard and similar treatments can create a protective barrier on your carpets, making it easier to clean up spills and stains. These products can be applied by professionals during a professional cleaning or purchased for at-home use.

According to Forbes, Americans are dedicated to travel this year, including at the holidays. Keeping your carpets clean and stain-free during the holiday season doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By maintaining your carpets regularly, acting quickly on spills, and investing in protection, you can ensure that your home’s floors remain inviting and beautiful. So, when the holidays arrive, you’ll be ready to handle any spills or stains with ease, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—spending quality time with loved ones.