If your stairs are carpeted, you understand how hard it is to keep them clean. With all that foot traffic, dust, and accidental spillage, over time your staircase can start to look dull and dirty. That’s why it can help to invest in the best carpet cleaner for stairs. In this guide, we will discuss how to clean stair carpets and what tools are the best for making this task easier.
Why Do Stair Carpets Require Special Care?
Stair carpets are subject to more wear than flat carpeted areas owing to feet passing through them all the time. Dirt accumulates more quickly, meaning they are more vulnerable to stains and bad smells. Additionally, standard vacuum cleaners and carpet cleaning machines may not work as well in the limited space of the stairs and in the corners.
How to Clean Stair Carpet
If you want to clean your staircase carpet, follow the correct procedure with the right tools. Here is a step-by-step guide to getting your stairs spotless:
Step 1: Clear Away Loose Dirt and Debris
Remove loose dirt and dust using a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment before deep cleaning. A handheld vacuum or small corner crevice tool could be ideal if the corners are tight.
Step 2: Pre-Treat Stains
Pre-treatment is vital for stairs with filthy carpet and tough stains. Use a stain remover, or a homemade combination of warm water, white vinegar, and a small amount of dish soap. Apply it to stains and allow it to soak in for 10-15 minutes, then scrub it.
Step 3: Scrub the Carpet
Scrub the carpet with a stiff bristle brush or carpet cleaning brush in a circular motion. This helps lift embedded dirt and loosen stubborn stains.
Step 4: Use a Carpet Cleaner
For a deep clean, use a carpet cleaner for stairs. These machines pump water and detergent into the carpet fibers and pull dirt and water out, leaving behind refreshed stairs. If you don’t have one, renting a portable carpet cleaner can also do the trick.
Step 5: Rinse and Dry
Finally, use a clean damp cloth to remove any cleaning residue that may still be left on your carpet. Dry out the soak using fans or open windows to avoid mold.
The Best Carpet Cleaners for Stairs
A good carpet cleaner is a must if you want the best way to clean carpet on stairs. Below are some highly-rated stair cleaners:
BISSELL SpotClean ProHeat
Power to lift and remove the toughest dirt and stains, with Heatwave Technology which delivers warm water whilst cleaning.
Hoover PowerDash GO Pet+
Best for cleaning pet messes and stains out of stair carpet, this portable carpet cleaner is also pet owner-friendly.
Rug Doctor Portable Spot Cleaner
This stair carpet cleaner provides an intense scrub and dirt lift with its dual-action motorized brush.
BLACK+DECKER Spillbuster
This portable, cordless spot cleaner makes the hardest of spills and stains disappear with almost no exertion.
How to Clean Staircase Carpet Without a Machine
But if you don’t have a carpet cleaner, you can still get great results with these easy home remedies:
Baking Soda and Vinegar
- Sprinkle baking soda on the stairs and allow it to sit for 15 minutes.
- Use a mixture of vinegar and warm water in a spray form.
- Scrub with a brush and wipe with a wet cloth.
Steam Cleaning
You can also go over each step with a handheld steam cleaner to kill bacteria and lift dirt without using harsh chemicals.
Dish Soap and Warm Water
- Combine dish soap with warm water, and scrub the carpet with a sponge or cloth.
- Wipe clean with a damp cloth and air-dry.
Expert Tips for Cleaning Carpeted Stairs
Routine Maintenance
Vacuuming your stairs a few times a week helps avoid dirt accumulation.
Use Runners or Mats
If you have a stair carpet, adding some protective cover on high-traffic areas can extend the life of the stair carpet.
Address Stains Immediately
Soak up spills with a clean cloth and apply stain remover immediately.
Get a Good Carpet Cleaner
A portable carpet cleaner makes your life much easier and provides better results. professional carpet cleaning colchester takes cleanliness to a whole new stage.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning your staircase carpet does not have to be a daunting task. Whether you use a carpet cleaner for stairs, a steam cleaner, or even a DIY method, regular maintenance will ensure your stairs stay looking good as new. Following these tips will ensure a cleaner, healthier home and longer-lived carpeted stairs.
