Written by Zeek on 12 Aug 2025 Carpet Care Myths Busted: Separating Fact from Fiction
When it comes to carpet cleaning, almost everyone has heard a piece of “advice” from a friend, neighbour, or an online article. Unfortunately, not all carpet care tips are created equal. Some are harmless, while others can actually damage your carpets or make cleaning problems worse. At Clarks Carpet Care, we’ve seen first-hand how these myths spread — and the costly consequences they can cause.
In this article, we’re separating fact from fiction so you can make informed choices about caring for your carpets.
Myth 1: Frequent Cleaning Wears Carpets Out
The Truth:
This is one of the most persistent myths in carpet care. Many people believe that the more you clean a carpet, the faster it will wear out. In reality, the opposite is true. Dirt, grit, and debris act like sandpaper on carpet fibres, wearing them down every time you walk across them. Regular professional cleaning removes these abrasive particles, helping your carpet last longer and maintain its appearance.
Myth 2: Vacuuming Once a Week Is Enough
The Truth:
For low-traffic rooms, once a week might be fine — but high-traffic areas such as hallways, stairs, and living rooms often need vacuuming two or three times a week. This is especially important if you have pets, children, or live in an area where dirt is frequently tracked indoors. Regular vacuuming prevents dirt from embedding deep in the fibres, making professional cleaning more effective.
Myth 3: All Stains Can Be Removed with Club Soda
The Truth:
Club soda has been touted as a miracle stain remover for years, but it’s far from universal. While it might help with some fresh spills, it’s not effective for all types of stains — particularly those caused by oil, ink, or set-in dirt. Using it excessively can even leave sticky residues that attract more grime. The safest option is to blot the spill immediately and call a professional cleaner who can use the correct solution for the stain type.
Myth 4: Carpets Only Need Cleaning When They Look Dirty
The Truth:
By the time you can see visible dirt or discolouration, your carpet has already trapped layers of dust, bacteria, and allergens beneath the surface. These contaminants can affect air quality and even trigger allergies. Experts recommend a professional clean every 12–18 months, or more often for homes with pets, children, or heavy foot traffic.
Myth 5: DIY Carpet Cleaning Is Just as Good as Professional
The Truth:
Hire-shop machines and home carpet cleaners can freshen up a carpet’s surface but rarely reach deep enough to remove embedded dirt and bacteria. Professional-grade equipment uses higher heat, stronger suction, and advanced cleaning agents tailored to your carpet’s fibre type. This ensures a more thorough clean, faster drying times, and less risk of damage.
Myth 6: Baking Soda Is a Safe Deodoriser for Carpets
The Truth:
Baking soda can help absorb odours temporarily, but it’s not a permanent fix — and it can be difficult to remove completely from carpet fibres. Over time, residue can build up, dulling the carpet’s appearance and potentially attracting more dirt. A professional cleaning service will not only neutralise odours but also remove the source of the smell.
Myth 7: New Carpets Don’t Need Cleaning for Years
The Truth:
Even brand-new carpets benefit from early professional cleaning. Dust and dirt can still settle between fibres, especially during the installation process. Starting a regular cleaning schedule from the beginning helps protect the carpet warranty and prolongs its lifespan.
Why Trust Clarks Carpet Care?
At Clarks Carpet Care, we combine the latest cleaning technology with expert knowledge to give your carpets the care they deserve. We know the difference between fact and fiction — and we use proven methods that keep your carpets looking their best while protecting their fibres.
Ready to give your carpets a science-backed clean?
Contact Clarks Carpet Care today and experience the difference professional expertise makes.
📞 Call us now to book your next clean.
