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Why You Should Avoid Using Bleach to Clean Carpets

March 25, 2024 / Avocado Services

Bleach, a common household cleaner, is often turned to for its potent disinfectant properties and ability to eradicate tough stains. However, when it comes to carpet care, the seemingly miraculous powers of bleach are more of a curse than a blessing. While it may effectively obliterate stains on hard surfaces, its application on carpets can lead to a host of irreversible damages, both aesthetic and structural. Here are compelling reasons why one should never resort to bleach for carpet cleaning:

Bleach Strips Colour

Bleach is notorious for its ability to strip away colours, rendering them faded or completely altered. When applied to carpets, it can result in unsightly blotches or patches where the dye has been compromised. This discolouration is irreversible, leaving behind an eyesore that no amount of subsequent cleaning can rectify.

Changes The Fibres

Carpets consist of delicate fibres, and bleach, with its corrosive nature, can weaken these fibres significantly. This weakening not only affects the carpet’s appearance but also its structural integrity, making it prone to unravelling and fraying. Over time, this damage can create costly repairs or even premature replacement of the carpet.

Leaves An Odour

Despite its strong scent, bleach does not effectively neutralise all odours. Instead, it leaves behind its own distinctive smell, which can be overpowering and unpleasant. Moreover, when bleach interacts with certain substances commonly found in carpets, such as urine or ammonia-based cleaners, it can produce noxious fumes that pose health risks, particularly to those with respiratory issues.

Risk To Health

Bleach leaves behind a chemical residue that can linger in carpets long after cleaning, posing health hazards to inhabitants, especially pets and children who spend considerable time on the floor. Skin irritation, respiratory problems, and allergic reactions are just some of the potential consequences of prolonged exposure to these residues.

Limited Efficiency

While bleach may be effective against certain types of stains, such as those caused by mould or mildew, it proves ineffective against many common carpet stains, including those from food, beverages, or pet accidents. Furthermore, its application can exacerbate certain stains, particularly those of organic origin, by setting them deeper into the carpet fibres.

Could Void Warranty

Attempting to clean carpets with bleach can void warranties if recently purchased and laid. Carpet manufacturers often specify guidelines for cleaning and maintenance, and the use of bleach typically falls outside these recommendations. Consequently, any damages incurred as a result of bleach usage may not be covered under warranty, leading to financial losses for the carpet owner.

In conclusion, while bleach may be a strong weapon against stains on hard surfaces, it should never be wielded in the battle against carpet stains. Its corrosive nature and potential health hazards far outweigh any short-term benefits it may offer. Instead, opt for safer, carpet-friendly cleaning alternatives recommended by professionals.

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How Often Should You Clean Carpets

March 19, 2024 / Avocado Services

Regular professional carpet cleaning is essential for maintaining a clean and healthy indoor environment. While routine vacuuming helps remove surface dirt and debris, it’s not sufficient to eliminate embedded allergens, bacteria, and other contaminants lurking within the carpet fibres. The frequency of professional carpet cleaning depends on several factors, including foot traffic, household pets, allergies, and indoor air quality. Generally, it’s recommended to have carpets professionally cleaned at least once every 12 months. However, certain circumstances may warrant more frequent cleaning.

Foot traffic is one of the primary factors determining how often carpets should be professionally cleaned. High-traffic areas such as hallways, entrances, and living rooms accumulate dirt and grime more quickly than less frequented areas. Homes with children or pets tend to have increased foot traffic, leading to faster carpet soiling. In such cases, more frequent cleaning, perhaps every 6 to 12 months, may be necessary to prevent dirt buildup and extend the carpet’s lifespan.

Furthermore, households with individuals suffering from allergies or respiratory conditions benefit significantly from regular carpet cleaning. Carpets trap allergens like dust mites, pollen, pet odours, and mould spores, exacerbating allergy symptoms and reducing indoor air quality. To minimize allergen exposure, we recommend cleaning carpets every 6 to 12 months, or even more frequently if allergies are severe. Professional cleaning methods, such as hot water extraction, effectively remove allergens, bacteria, and pollutants, promoting a healthier indoor environment.

Pet owners face unique challenges when it comes to carpet maintenance. Regular vacuuming and spot cleaning help manage pet-related messes, but they may not be sufficient to address deep-seated odours and stains. Professional carpet cleaning every 3 to 6 months is advisable for pet owners to effectively eliminate odours, bacteria, and allergens. Additionally, specialized enzyme treatments can break down organic stains and neutralize odours, restoring carpets to a fresh, clean state.

Aside from cleanliness and indoor air quality, regular professional carpet cleaning also preserves the carpet’s appearance and extends its lifespan. Over time, dirt and debris accumulate within the carpet fibres, causing them to become matted and worn. Professional cleaning removes embedded soil, rejuvenates carpet fibres, and restores their original texture and colour. By investing in regular maintenance, homeowners can prolong the life of their carpets and delay the need for costly replacements.

In conclusion, the frequency of professional carpet cleaning depends on various factors, including foot traffic, household pets, allergies, and indoor air quality. While a general guideline is to have carpets cleaned every 12 months, specific circumstances may warrant more frequent cleaning. Regular professional maintenance not only enhances cleanliness and indoor air quality but also preserves the carpet’s appearance and extends its lifespan. By prioritising regular cleaning, homeowners can enjoy cleaner, healthier carpets and a more comfortable living environment.

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Spring Carpet Cleaning

March 5, 2024 / Avocado Services

Spring is upon us

Professional carpet cleaning is a crucial aspect of maintaining a clean, healthy, and vibrant living environment, especially during the spring season. As winter recedes, the warmer, more dynamic season of spring offers the perfect opportunity to rejuvenate your space, making it an ideal time for thorough cleaning tasks, including professional carpet cleaning. This service not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your carpets but also contributes significantly to the overall indoor air quality and extends the lifespan of your carpets.

Why Spring is the Optimal Time for Professional Carpet Cleaning

1. Allergen Reduction: Spring is synonymous with the onset of allergy season, due to the higher pollen counts and the presence of other allergens. Carpets can trap these allergens, contributing to indoor air quality issues. Professional carpet cleaning services use advanced techniques and solutions to remove allergens from carpets, helping to alleviate allergy symptoms and improve indoor air quality.

2. Removal of Winter Residues: Winters can be harsh, leading to the accumulation of salt, dirt, and grime in your carpets, brought in from the outside. These residues can damage the fibres of your carpet over time. Spring cleaning helps in removing these residues, revitalising your carpet’s appearance and texture.

3. Ideal Drying Conditions: The warmer temperatures and lower humidity levels in spring provide optimal conditions for carpets to dry more efficiently after a deep clean. This not only speeds up the cleaning process but also reduces the risk of mould and mildew growth, which can be a concern with slower drying times.

4. Preparation for High Traffic: Spring and summer months often lead to increased foot traffic through your home due to social gatherings, events, and more frequent in-and-out activities. A thorough professional cleaning can help prepare your carpets for this increased wear, ensuring they look their best and are free from previous soiling and stains.

Benefits of Professional Carpet Cleaning

1. Deep Cleaning: While regular vacuuming is essential for day-to-day carpet maintenance, professional cleaning goes much deeper. It can remove stubborn stains, deeply embedded dirt, and reduce bacteria and allergens that regular vacuuming cannot.

2. Extends Carpet Life: Professional cleaning can significantly extend the life of your carpet by removing the abrasive particles that can wear down carpet fibres over time. This deep clean maintains the integrity and appearance of your carpet, making it a cost-effective measure in the long run.

3. Enhances Room Appearance: Clean carpets are foundational to the overall cleanliness and aesthetic appeal of a room. Professional carpet cleaning can restore the original beauty and texture of your carpets, transforming the entire look and feel of your space.

4. Health Benefits: By eliminating dust, allergens, and bacteria from carpets, professional cleaning plays a vital role in creating a healthier living environment. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with allergies, asthma, or other respiratory issues.

5. Saves Time and Energy: Entrusting carpet cleaning to professionals saves homeowners and businesses considerable time and effort. Equipped with the latest tools and cleaning solutions, professionals can achieve better results in a fraction of the time it would take to do it oneself.

In conclusion, professional carpet cleaning in spring offers numerous benefits, from enhancing indoor air quality to extending the lifespan of your carpets. By scheduling a professional cleaning, you can ensure your carpets are not only visually appealing but also contribute to a healthier and more enjoyable living or working environment.

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Winter Is Approaching

November 16, 2023 / Avocado Services

Cleaning Your Carpets Before Christmas

As the winter season sets in and the Christmas spirit fills the air, many homeowners turn their attention to preparing their homes for the festivities ahead. While decorating and organising are often at the forefront of these preparations, one essential aspect that should not be overlooked is the cleaning of carpets. Cleaning carpets in winter, especially before Christmas, offers a range of benefits.

First and foremost, a clean carpet contributes to a healthier indoor environment. During the winter months, people tend to spend more time indoors, and the carpets can harbour a significant amount of dust, allergens, and even mould if not properly maintained. Regular cleaning helps remove these pollutants, creating a cleaner and healthier atmosphere for residents and guests alike. This is particularly crucial during the holiday season when family and friends gather, as a clean environment ensures the well-being of everyone present.

Freshly cleaned carpets also enhances the overall appearance, creating a welcoming and festive atmosphere. Whether it’s a family gathering around the fireplace or friends exchanging presents, a well-maintained carpet sets the stage for those memorable moments.

Winter conditions can bring a variety of challenges along the way, including dirt and debris walked in from outside, which can take a toll on carpets. Regular cleaning helps remove these abrasive particles, preventing premature wear and tear. By investing in professional carpet cleaning, homeowners not only protect their flooring investment but also ensure that the carpets look their best for many years to come.

Additionally, a clean carpet contributes to improved indoor air quality. Carpets act as filters, trapping airborne particles and preventing them from circulating in the air. However, over time, carpets can become saturated with contaminants, diminishing their filtering efficiency. Cleaning carpets in winter ensures that they can continue to function effectively, reducing the concentration of allergens and pollutants in the air.

Here at Avocado Services we offer many additional treatments, from deodorisers and sanitisers to odour neutralisers and protectors. All of which can be added and promote a healthier living space.

For those who celebrate Christmas with a tree and festive decorations, a clean carpet is especially important. Pine needles, glitter, and other Christmas related debris can easily find their way into carpet fibres. Regular cleaning not only removes these seasonal remnants but also prevents them from causing long-term damage to the carpet.

In conclusion, the benefits of cleaning carpets in winter before Christmas are both practical and cost effective. From creating a healthier indoor environment to preparing the home for Christmas Day. As homeowners embark on their seasonal preparations, allocating time and effort to clean carpets ensures that the festive spirit can be enjoyed in a clean and comfortable environment.

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How Wool Carpets Are Made

September 25, 2023 / Avocado Services

Wool carpet is a timeless flooring option that combines luxury, warmth, and durability. Its production process is a fascinating blend of tradition and modern technology, resulting in a product that graces homes and commercial spaces with unmatched beauty and functionality.

1. Wool Sourcing:

The journey of wool carpet begins with the careful selection of the raw material – wool. Wool is primarily obtained from sheep, although it can also come from other animals like goats and alpacas. The quality of the wool is crucial, and it’s often sourced from regions known for their fine wool production, such as New Zealand and Australia.

2. Shearing:

Once the wool is sourced, the next step is shearing. Sheep are carefully and gently sheared to collect their fleece. This is typically done in the spring when their wool has grown to the desired length. Skilled shearers ensure that the fleece is removed without harming the animal.

3. Sorting and Cleaning:

After shearing, the wool is sorted and cleaned. During sorting, the wool is separated into different grades based on its quality, texture, and colour. Any impurities like dirt, grease, and vegetable matter are removed through a series of washing processes. This ensures that the wool is clean and ready for processing.

4. Carding:

The cleaned wool is then carded to align the fibres and remove any remaining impurities. Carding involves passing the wool through a series of rollers with wire brushes. This process creates a fluffy, uniform web of wool fibres, making it easier to spin into yarn.

5. Spinning:

The carded wool is spun into yarn. Traditional spinning wheels and modern machinery are used to twist the wool fibres together, creating strong and continuous strands of yarn. The thickness and twist of the yarn can be adjusted to achieve the desired texture for the carpet.

6. Dyeing:

If coloured wool is required, the yarn is dyed at this stage. Natural and synthetic dyes can be used to achieve an array of colours. The dyeing process is carefully controlled to ensure even colouration and consistency throughout the yarn.

7. Tufting:

Tufting is a key step in the carpet-making process. It involves inserting the dyed and spun yarn into a backing material to create the carpet’s pile. Modern tufting machines use hundreds of needles to punch the yarn through the backing, forming loops that create the carpet’s texture.

8. Backing and Latexing:

Once the tufting is complete, the carpet is backed with a secondary material, often made of woven fabric or synthetic materials. A layer of latex adhesive is applied to the back to hold the yarn in place. This backing provides stability and durability to the carpet.

9. Cutting and Shearing:

The carpet is then cut to the desired size and shape. After cutting, it undergoes shearing, a process that trims the pile to an even height. Skilled craftsmen use specialized tools to create a smooth, uniform surface.

10. Inspection and Quality Control:

Each carpet goes through a rigorous inspection process to ensure quality and consistency. Imperfections are identified and corrected, and any loose fibres are removed. This step is crucial to delivering a flawless product to customers.

11. Finishing and Packaging:

The final step involves finishing touches such as binding the edges of the carpet and applying protective treatments to enhance stain resistance and durability. The carpets are then carefully packaged for shipment to retailers or customers.

In conclusion, wool carpet production is a meticulous and time-honoured process that marries natural fibres with modern technology to create a luxurious and enduring flooring option. From the humble sheep’s fleece to the finished product in your home, the journey of a wool carpet reflects a commitment to quality, comfort, and elegance that has made it a beloved choice for generations. Its natural warmth, resilience, and timeless beauty make the wool carpet a symbol of both craftsmanship and innovation in the world of interior design.

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The First Vacuum Carpet Cleaner

July 23, 2023 / Avocado Services

The first vacuum cleaner was invented by Hubert Cecil Booth, a British engineer, in 1901. His device was a large, horse-drawn, petrol-powered unit that was used for cleaning carpets in buildings. Although Booth’s invention was the first practical vacuum cleaner, it was quite different from the modern vacuum cleaners we use today. It was a cumbersome machine and not very accessible to the general public.

Later on, in 1907, James Murray Spangler, an American janitor, designed a portable electric vacuum cleaner. He used a fan, a pillowcase, a broom handle, and a soapbox to create his invention. Spangler’s device was the precursor to the modern vacuum cleaners and was the first to incorporate both a brush and suction mechanism.

In 1908, Spangler’s patent and design were purchased by William Hoover, who founded the Hoover Company. The Hoover Company revolutionized the design, marketing, and production of vacuum cleaners, making them more popular and widely available to households around the world. As a result, the name “Hoover” became synonymous with vacuum cleaners in some parts of the world, especially in the United Kingdom.

Booths Vacuum Carpet Cleaner in action 1903

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Where is that Urine smell coming from?

June 12, 2023 / Avocado Services

Using a UV (ultraviolet) light to find urine stains in carpet

Urine contains phosphorus, which fluoresces under UV light, making it easier to spot the stains. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use a UV light to find urine stains in carpet:

Choose a UV light: This doesn’t have to be an expensive purchase, you can easily pick these up online at a low price. These lights look like torches and come in various sizes but a small handheld one is all you need.
Prepare the room: Turn off as many lights as possible in the room to increase the visibility of the UV light. It’s always best to perform this inspection in a darkened room or during nighttime. Closing curtains, lowering blinds and closing any doors will help.
Inspect the carpet: Hold the UV light close to the carpet surface, about 1 to 2 feet above it, and slowly move it around. Pay attention to any areas that appear bright green or yellowish-green. These bright areas are likely to be urine stains.
Mark the stains: Once you identify a urine stain, mark the spot with a piece of tape or paper so that you can easily locate it later when you turn the UV light off.
Assess the extent of the stains: Continue scanning the entire carpet to identify all the urine stains. Some stains may be visible immediately, while others may require a closer look. Take your time to ensure you don’t miss any spots.
Treat the stains: After identifying the urine stains, you can proceed with treating them. Spraying a carpet sanitiser or deodoriser will temporally mask the odour. At this stage give us a call. We can arrange for someone to come out and machine extract those areas for you. We can neutralise, sanitise and machine extract those stains for you. Unfortunately, you can never guarantee that the yellowing left behind will disappear, but the odour can certainly be reduced. The main trick here is time. The quicker you get to the area and treat it the easier it is to remove.

Remember, UV lights only help you locate urine stains, but they are not a substitute for cleaning. This is only for identifying and finding where they are. Because UV light can cause nausea when used for long periods of time it’s always advised to wear safety UV protective goggles. Never shine or point the light into your eyes, always hold the device downwards when turning it on and off.

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How To Care For Your Leather Sofa

February 20, 2023 / Avocado Services

Leather upholstery is a very hard wearing material and can last for decades if properly cared for. Maintaining the cushions and especially the armrests will prevent the leather from drying out leading to cracks and splits.

Following these simple tips and tricks will act as a guide to maintaining a clean sofa environment.

Dust and vacuum the leather regularly.

Using a microfibre cloth to dust the tops and backs of all areas will not only brighten the leather but also prevents dust allergies from developing. If you have a vacuum cleaner then adding a brush attachment to it can also be an effective way to lift dust and debris. If the cushions are loose, remove them fully so the base can be cleaned as well. Sometimes you may even find that missing pen.

Soak up spillages immediately

If for example a drink or some kind of liquid happens to spill over the sofa, don’t panic. With leather, it’s usually quite easy. Grab a dry cloth, press it over the spillage and let the cloth draw up the liquid. Do not rub or put any cleaning product down at this stage. Just hold the cloth over the area and soak up as much as you can.
Most of the time this will be all that’s needed to clean the area, however, if some colouring remains after then it may require a professional. Try to avoid using washing up liquid or other products to clean with. This can lead to all sorts of problems such as colour loss or damage to the leather itself. Using a dry or slightly damp cloth with just water is the best and effective method for a quick fix.

Preventing cracking and splits

Over time leather hardens and becomes stiff. With the constant sitting down and moving around on the sofa can cause the leather to split or crack. You will tend to notice this more on the seat cushions and the armrests. Preventing this is quite a simple task, use Leather Conditioners. These can be applied by a professional, or if you feel confident, you can do it yourself.
These liquid based creams are applied by hand and are massaged into the leather. This softens the leather itself and keeps the whole sofa supple. Usually lasts between 2 to 3 months and can be easily reapplied when needed.

Avoid sunlight

The most common thing we see in leather is colour loss. This is where certain areas of the leather look a different colour from the rest. Usually, this is caused by UV from the sun. Sunlight beaming down through a window onto the leather on a hot day can lead to discolouration, this unfortunately is irreversible.
So when positioning your lovely new leather furniture, just take a moment to check how much sunlight if any will shine directly down onto it. Also check any other forms of heat such as radiators, making sure no part of the upholstery is directly touching.

Regular professional cleaning

Wiping down and conditioning your leather upholstery is something you can do yourself. But to clean the leather properly may require a professional. Using the correct methods and products designed for leather restoration can make all the difference.

We recommend twice a year should be enough to keep your leather upholstery looking its best.

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How To Safely Clean Your Phone

June 15, 2022 / Avocado Services

In today’s society, your mobile phone is one of the most important items you carry around. It’s in your bag, your pocket, on tables, on charge and in your hand multiple times. So keeping it clean is very important.

Over time dust and debris can build up on the screen, in the charging ports, and under the edges of the case. This can result in things like improper button response to difficulty with connecting cables.

Now phones are very delicate pieces of equipment, so your want to make sure you have the right cleaning tools for the job.

Step 1

Turn off your device, and remove the battery if you can.

Step 2 – Gather Cleaning Tools

Wooden toothpick
Paper Towel
Sanitiser Spray

The quickest and easiest tool for removing debris is a wooden toothpick. This is great for scrapping bits out the edges, around buttons and in the charge ports. Due to it being wooden it does not conduct electricity so there’s no chance of you getting a shock or damaging the connections if used softly.

What you do not want to do is use any metal tools of any kind, as these could short out components and damage your device. You should also avoid using compressed air as this can just force the dirt in further.

Once you are happy you have removed as much dirt as you can it’s time to clean the whole facia of the device.

To do this spray some sanitiser directly onto a folded paper towel, 2 small squirts should be enough. Gently rub the towel over the whole device insuring you cover all sides, front and back. The reason we use sanitiser is it will kill any bacteria but also clean at the same time.

Once the device is looking sparkling and fingerprint-free fold the towel and dry off.

We recommend cleaning your phones and tablets at least once a week.

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Fleas – A Pest In The Home

April 28, 2022 / Avocado Services

Fleas are very common in the UK and the main way they enter your home is via our pets. Cats and Dogs like to show you what they have found but these are always unwanted gifts.

A common sign your pet has fleas is to look for them scratching and generally a bit jumpy. This usually means fleas are present and should be treated immediately to stop the spread. Like Mosquitoes, they are blood-sucking insects and can cause irritation for both the pet and the owner.

Fleas pass through four life stages: egg, larva, pupae and adult.

Stage 1: Egg

Once an adult female flea has found a host and eaten a blood meal she can start to reproduce and lay eggs. These tiny white objects smaller than a grain of sand make it nearly impossible to see.

Once left and the temperature is right the eggs will hatch and form larvae.

Stage 2: Larvae

Flea larvae bury themselves deep into fabrics, carpets, and shaded areas out of direct sunlight. As they cannot yet feed on a host they eat dirt from the environment. Feeding on organic debris which is basically dried blood. Once left for up to a week the larvae will spin cocoons and enter the pupae stage.

Stage 3: Pupae

Flea pupae refer to the final cocoon stage before it turns into an adult. This can take a couple of days or weeks depending on the conditions. Usually, an adult flea will not emerge until a presence of a potential host is detected. Vibrations, rising levels of carbon dioxide and body heat. Your pet walking past or people moving around the home can alert the flea to free itself from the cocoon and start to feed. The cocoon acts as a protective barrier until its ready to hatch. It’s at this stage that some household flea remover sprays and foggers will not work. This gives fleas a better chance to avoid being killed off and is one reason they return. So when using treatments make sure you repeat over several weeks to insure this stage is not reached.

Stage 4: Adult

The flea emerges from the cocoon stage and is hungry, seeking a host to feed on. Fleas look very small and flat, to begin with, but once the bloodsuckers have had their fill they change to the familiar shade we all know.

So these are the 4 stages a flea takes on its life journey, so imagine this happening 400-500 times.

Flea Facts

A female flea can produce between 400-500 offspring.
Fleas live off a host, usually warm-blooded creatures such as Dogs, Cats, and Humans.
Fleas carry diseases as well as give a painful and itchy bump on the skin.
Fleas can jump 100 times their length.

Treatment

Flea treatment from the vets or pet store is usually the first point of call.
Regularly bathe your pets using pet shampoo and use a flea comb/brush to part the fur.
Wash any bedding pets or yourself have used. Air all pillows, and duvets and turn the mattress every day.
Spray flea killer on upholstery, use foggers and open windows.
Professionally clean carpets, rugs, upholstery, mattresses and headboard.

For some effective flea treatment foggers: Johnsons Foggers

For flea treatment sprays: Rentokil Flea Killer Spray

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