Every homeowner knows that their trusty vacuum cleaner is the best weapon against a dirty, smelly carpet. When pets are part of the home or to eliminate infrequent spills, proper stain removal is a must. Modern rugs are stain resistant, helping to prevent accidents from turning into permanent stains. Please note, stain resistant does not mean stain resistant. You will always have to be vigilant and attack violators in time. Carpet cleaning products bearing the Carpet & Rug Institute (CRI) Seal of Approval are generally safe to use on any type/color of carpet. However, it would be wise to test it on a small hidden area of ​​the carpet. Follow the manufacturer's instructions, remembering not to scrub the area vigorously. Preventative measures go a long way in keeping carpets clean. By placing mats inside and outside doors, much of the dirt stays outside where it belongs. It may sound strange, but scheduled changes to your HVAC air filter allow it to remove dust that would otherwise fall onto your carpet. Beyond preventative measures, regular vacuuming and rapid stain removal, carpets should be cleaned....