Are body oils in your carpet and upholstery fibres at home?
It is not difficult for body oils to find their way into carpet and upholstery fibres. Body oils are naturally oily and can easily soak into the fibres found in carpet, sofas and rugs.
The larger the quantity of body oils produced, the more likely they are to end up in the carpet fibres.
The list below details different types of body fluids that can end up in carpet fibres:
- Sweat: Sweat is comes from sweat glands all over the body. It is made up of salt, water and other minerals.
- Oil: Oil is produced by sebaceous glands in our skin. It helps to keep the skin cells and hair moist.
- Urine: Urine is produced by the kidneys and stored in the bladder. It is released from the body through the urethra.
- Faeces: Faeces are waste products that are produced by our digestive system. They are discharged from the body through the anus.
- Blood: Blood is a liquid that circulates through the body. It is made up of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma.
If body fluids are not cleaned up quickly and properly, they can cause a number of problems, including:
- Odour: Body fluids can produce a bad odour if they are not cleaned up effectively.
- Stains Body fluids usually leave stains on carpets and upholstery.
- Mildew: Body fluids can promote the growth of mildew, this can damage carpets and upholstery.
- Health problems: Body fluids can contain bacteria and viruses these cause health problems, such as urinary tract infections and hepatitis.
It is important to clean up body fluids as soon as possible to stop these problems. If you spill body fluids on your carpet or upholstery, follow these steps to remove them:
Blot up as much of the fluid as possible with a clean cloth.
Mix one part white vinegar with two parts water.
Apply the vinegar solution to the affected area with a sponge or spray bottle.
Blot the area again with a clean cloth.
Let the area dry completely.
If the stain is still visible, you may need to use a commercial carpet cleaner. Be sure to test the cleaner in an inconspicuous area first to make sure it does not damage your carpet.
It is also important to take steps to prevent body fluids from getting on your carpet and upholstery in the first place.
Here are some tips:
Use mats at the entrances to your home to catch dirt and moisture before it tracks onto your carpet.
Have a designated area for pets to relieve themselves.
Clean up spills immediately.
Vacuum your carpet regularly.
If you follow these tips, you can help to keep your carpet and upholstery looking their best and prevent the growth of mould and mildew.
Consult your local professional carpet and upholstery cleaning company for advice and help to keep on top of the cleanliness of your home.
Seek out qualified and insured professionals
With any trade service, its important to find experienced and fully insured professionals.
The National Carpet Cleaners Association deliver the best training followed by examinations before membership is invited.
Experienced local professionals will be able to remove more body oils in your fibres than an inexperienced non trained operator.
Extensive carpet preparation will dislodge and remove considerably more soil and body oils in your carpet fibres before cleaning / rinsing takes place.
Professional agitation equipment isn’t always used by operators as these machines are very expensive.
