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How to Clean Carpet on Stairs By Hand or Machine: Best Methods

photo of clean carpet stairs
January 30, 2024

In this article, we’ll elaborate on the best way to clean stair carpets given that you aren't interested in booking carpet cleaning services in London. We will focus on cleaning by hand as well as using a machine. If you want to take better care of your carpeted stairs, keep reading.

If cleaning the carpet on your stairs by hand or machine sounds overwhelming, our professional cleaners are here to help. Don't hesitate to give us a call at 07557914387 or 02036215221, and we'll ensure your stair carpets are spotless and beautifully maintained.

Key Takeaways from Cleaning Stairs Carpet

  • Before you start cleaning, run a brush over the carpeted area to remove dust, pet hair, and debris
  • Mixing carpet shampoo with some water helps to eliminate embedded dirt and stains on carpeted stairs
  • Another way to go is to steam clean the surface but for that one specifically, you'll need to rent a machine
  • It’s vital to let the carpeted stairs dry to prevent mould from forming in the fibres

How to Clean Carpeted Stairs by Hand (Using Carpet Shampoo)

woman cleaning her carpet stairs by hand using carpet shampooing

The first step is to run a scrub brush over the fabric and loosen dirt. You might also use a broom for that purpose. Needless to say, you have to start at the top and work your way down to the bottom. When you get there, take a dustpan to collect the dirty particles.

The other way to do this is to stick with carpet shampoo. It can get rid of stains and mud. Mix the product with warm water to dilute it. Apply carpet shampoo over the stained areas and spread it with a soft brush. If you have a wool carpet, steer clear of the brush and use a clean cloth instead, paying attention to every high-traffic area.

When you are done spreading the mixture, blot with paper towels, a clean cloth or a white towel. Let the carpeting area dry in full.

You can implement the same strategy using mild dish soap or white vinegar. Be careful not to use too much product since it will be difficult to get rid of it. Scrub each step from top to bottom using circular motions or just by going back and forth.

You don’t want to use a lot of water because it will create the ideal environment for mould growth. After the cleaning is over, it’s wise to turn on a fan near the stairs to help the carpet dry faster. Open the windows to facilitate the process. When it's completely dry, we recommend doing some final vacuuming.

How to Clean Carpet on Stairs with a Steam Carpet Cleaner

man cleaning carpet stairs with steam cleaning machine

One of the best ways to clean carpeted stairs is to go for a steam cleaner. There are steam cleaners for rent at any hardware store or other outlets. Of course, the best results are achieved by professional-grade equipment but you can still do a decent job with a rented carpet cleaner.

To start off, you need a lightweight vacuum or a regular vacuum with a brush attachment and a long cord. Pass it over the carpeted steps to lift dirt and debris. Before you begin, read the manufacturer’s instructions on how to use the steam cleaner. These machines can extract dirt, remove stains, and even offer sanitation properties.

When you are done, remove excess water by blotting the stairs with towels. Open the windows to allow the air to circulate unobstructed or run a fan in the room. It’s important to speed up the drying process so you prevent the formation of mould in the fabric.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to clean a very dirty carpet?

First, apply baking soda and let it sit. Then add some dish soap and water into the mix. Run a soft-bristled brush over the fabric to spread the concoction so it can penetrate deep into the carpeting.
Scrub and rinse to remove the embedded grime from the stairs. Repeat the steps as many times as necessary until the dust is gone. Don’t forget to ensure good ventilation in the room to speed up drying. If you don't get the desired results, stick with professional services.

How do you clean carpet on stairs without removing it?

Apply baking soda directly on the fabric. Spread it around with a stiff brush, trying to get it into the fibres. Let it sit for about 30 minutes and then vacuum it.

What can I use to keep my carpet stairs clean?

Sweep or vacuum your carpeted steps regularly to remove large debris and loosened dirt. Regularly cleaning the stairs with a stiff broom or vacuum will take care of most dust, which means you won't need to deep clean the fabric as often.

What is the most effective carpet cleaning method?

One of the best carpet cleaning methods is steam cleaning. It not only eliminates stains but also sanitises the fabric, leaving it fresh and bright.

How often should you shampoo a stair carpet?

Considering carpeting areas get a lot of foot traffic, they should be shampooed two or three times a year. Spread the product with a clean towel or a sponge.

Can I use a Rug Doctor on my stairs?

Sure. This is a great way to go. It saves you plenty of effort and time.

How do you clean the corners of a carpet on stairs?

If your vacuum comes with a crevice attachment, put it to work. A handheld vacuum cleaner can also do the trick if you don’t happen to have a hose attachment in your cleaning arsenal. You might consider hiring professional cleaning services for your carpets, though.

Looking for more cleaning tips? Check out our other post about how to clean bleach cleanable carpets at home or how to clean a jute rug.

If you need assistance, don't hesitate to give us a call and let us handle all the cleaning work for you. We are based at 130 Cat Hill, London, Barnet EN4 8HU, United Kingdom but we provide cleaning services in all parts of London.

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07557914387  or
02036215221
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Crystal Carpet Cleaners 130 Cat Hill
London, Barnet EN4 8HU
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