Most homeowners want to keep their carpets looking fresh as long as possible. A common debate is whether family members and guests should wear shoes in the house. While taking shoes off can prevent dirt from being tracked inside, going barefoot has its own drawbacks. So, what is the best approach to keeping your carpet clean?
Should You Wear Shoes on The Carpet?
At first glance, banning shoes indoors seems like the easiest way to protect carpet. Shoes carry soil, mud, and outdoor contaminants that wear down carpet fibers over time. However, walking barefoot on carpet can also cause problems.
The natural oils from your skin transfer to carpet fibers as you walk. These oils can cause discoloration, make carpets look dingy, and attract more dirt. If you use moisturizers on your feet, the synthetic oils add another layer of residue. Both natural and synthetic oils require a professional-grade carpet-safe degreaser to be removed effectively.
It’s More Than Just Dirt on Carpet
Carpet cleanliness goes beyond visible dirt. In homes with pets, going barefoot exposes your feet to additional bacteria. Dogs track in soil and microbes from outside, and cats step directly from litter boxes onto the carpet. When you walk barefoot in these areas, you come into contact with the same bacteria.
For households with pets, HydroClean Carpet Cleaning often recommends adding an antimicrobial treatment during professional cleanings to reduce bacteria and keep carpets healthier for both people and pets.
What To Do Instead Of Going Barefoot
If you want the comfort of being shoe-free at home but also want to protect your carpets, the best solution is to wear socks or slippers indoors. Soft-soled footwear creates a barrier between your feet and the carpet, preventing oils from transferring and reducing long-term damage. This habit, combined with regular vacuuming, can extend the life of your carpets and keep them looking fresh.
Is Your Carpet Due For A Cleaning?
Even with great habits like avoiding shoes indoors or wearing slippers, carpets still need professional care to remove built-up oils, dirt, and allergens. At HydroClean Carpet Cleaning, our certified technicians use advanced cleaning methods to restore softness, brighten carpet fibers, and extend the life of your flooring.
Contact us today to schedule your next cleaning and give your carpets the refresh they deserve.
