So your dog went out back to do its usual business, but this time, when it returned, it brought along some uninvited guests. That’s right: fleas have dropped in for a surprise visit, and they just might end up staying for dinner. Before you know it, you’re scratching and slapping at these nearly imperceptible pests. A barrage of questions storm through your mind: Will I have to vacate my house? Are chemical treatments my only option? Will Fido have to go to the vet? Relax: the answer to all of these questions is a resounding “no.” Take a deep breath and follow these simple steps:

1. Decontaminate the host. Since your pet is the one who started this mess (albeit unwittingly), Read more

Watch this video for some helpful tips about cleaning and maintaining carpet, rugs and floors. Read more

When choosing a carpet, the average consumer tends to focus on the fibers while often neglecting to consider what’s beneath the surface. A carpet’s cushion (also known as the “backing” or “padding”) is an equally integral component, both prolonging the life of the carpet and providing additional benefits of insulation, noise reduction, and underfoot comfort. In the same way that many are unaware of the cushion’s vital role in a carpet’s performance, environmentally-conscious consumers tend to concentrate their scrutiny on the carpet’s face, even though such concerns apply just as much to the backing. Fortunately, there’s a wide variety of cushion options available for the discerning consumer. Read more

Do you know what to do when you spill food or drink on your carpet? Watch this video for some helpful tips. Read more

The worst thing you can do when you spill something on your carpeting? Grab an off-the-shelf spot remover and start rubbing. Charlene Locke, an expert at Sequoia Cleaning & Restoration, Inc., a Diamond Certified company, says this can just make your problem worse. “The right way is to first remove any solid matter with a spatula. Then, fold a towel into a tight square; place it on top of the spilled area and then step on it — using your whole weight. And keep on turning this folded square towel until the spill is fully absorbed.” Ms. Locke says next, pour one cup of cold water onto the spill. Get another towel, and keep blotting as before, Read more

The key to treating carpet spots and stains is to act quickly—the longer you wait, the higher the probability that a spill will become a permanent stain. Large stains should always be handled by a professional, but to effectively deal with minor spots and stains, consider the following tips:

Absorb

• Blot liquids with a dry, absorbent cloth or plain paper towels (printed or colored material may transfer ink or dye to your damp carpet). Continue until the area is barely damp.
• Start at the outside of the spot and continue toward the center to prevent the stain from spreading. Semi-solid spills, like food, may need to be scooped up with a spoon.

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