As you hand over your security deposit to your landlord, you may catch yourself wincing in the direction of the plush, woolen carpets in the living room – especially if you have children or pets! The good news is that caring for carpets needn’t be the challenge that you expect. Here are some tips for keeping them in tip-top condition right up until it’s time to vacate the property.

Take the necessary precautions

While you definitely want to do everything in your power to avoid any accidents or spills, you will also need to take precautions when it comes to protecting the carpets from high levels of foot traffic. There is no getting away from general wear and tear – it’s inevitable. However, you can keep it to a minimum. Consider making your home’s interior a shoe-free zone. Bare feet will have a far less noticeable effect on the look of the carpet than heavy shoes will over time.

Place runners in strategic spots

Place stylish runners in the areas of the home that see the most foot traffic. Not only will they aid in protecting the carpets, but they are also a great opportunity to add a pop of color to your living space.

Think ahead

There will be moments when you know ahead of time that there is a risk to your rental home’s carpets. For example, when you are going to be painting a room, or when you are hosting a big party. In the former scenario, be sure to secure a large tarp over the carpets using some tape to avoid any slips and falls. For the latter scenario, you might want to visit a thrift or charity shop in search of an old area rug.

Call in the professionals

When the carpets are starting to look a bit grubby and unkempt, it will be time to call on the best carpet cleaning London experts for assistance. These companies make use of more powerful cleaning agents (which should be safe to use even when there are kids and pets around) that help to lift stains and replenish the original color of the carpets. They are sure to look as good as new again. Remember to utilize professional carpet cleaning services at least once or twice a year, and right before moving out, for the best results.

Practice good carpet hygiene

It is essential to vacuum your rental home’s carpets at least a couple of times a week. Furthermore, it can prove helpful to invest in a mini steam cleaner and a carpet deodorizer to keep it fresh and tidy in between professional cleans. Obviously, always be sure to have a stain removal treatment specifically designed for carpets handy if an accident occurs. The faster you deal with it, the less likely the stain is to remain. Finally, use a squeegee to rid the fibers of any stubborn pet hair.

Keeping your carpets clean may require a bit of effort, but it will all be worth it in the end when you receive your deposit back in full!