The Carpet and Rug InstituteDirt and Dust in Your Home: Don't Just Move It Around Remove It
Useful Vacuuming Tips from CRI Help Make Housecleaning Quick and Easy

Contact: CRI Communications Department, 706.428.2103

November 28, 2001, DALTON, GA Whether you're cleaning out the spare bedroom or just tidying up around the house, it is important that dirt and dust are removed, not simply moved around or thrown back into the breathing zone. According to the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI), properly vacuuming carpet is the easiest and most effective way to keep your carpet clean. It may be surprising, but something as simple as regular vacuuming can also have the largest impact on the cleanliness of your home and the air you breathe.

The CRI recommends vacuuming areas often that receive the most traffic, such as hallways, stairs, and exterior entryways in the home. Ideally, vacuum all the floor coverings a minimum of once a week, and the high-traffic areas more often, based on the usage. If you have pets, you may need to vacuum some areas daily. Removing loose soil while it remains on the carpet's surface is important so that it is not walked into the carpet pile.

Use a vacuum cleaner that cleans effectively and minimizes generating dust from the filter and around the machine while keeping the carpet looking good. To help consumers select an effective vacuum, the CRI initiated The Vacuum Cleaner Indoor Air Quality Testing Program. Vacuum cleaner models evaluated by an independent testing laboratory are tested for removing soil adequately, containing the dust in the machine and in the filter bag, and carpet appearance retention. Those that achieve the carpet industry's standard are identified by the CRI as "green label." All types of approved vacuum cleaners (uprights, canisters, etc.) are listed on CRI's web site: www.carpet-rug.org.

The CRI suggests carefully following these additional five recommendations for effective vacuuming:

  • To remove surface soil, push the vacuum forward several feet and then reverse direction. Embedded soil is more effectively removed by pulling the vacuum against the pile direction in a slow, deliberate motion.

  • Use only vacuums with strong suction, adjustable brushes and high-efficiency filtration. Change your vacuum's disposable bag regularly or clean the permanent one.

  • Make sure to move furniture periodically so that you thoroughly clean all of your carpet, especially under furniture.

  • Properly maintain your vacuum clean brushes and replace them when worn, keep hoses and attachments free of obstructions that restrict air flow, inspect the vacuum head for rough edges or bent metal that may damage your carpet, check belts frequently to make certain they are working properly and always keep a spare belt for replacement as needed.

  • Change the vacuum bag when it becomes more than half full. As the bag becomes full, soil removal efficiency is reduced.

The CRI recommends also that you vacuum upholstered furniture, mattresses and bed linens on a regular basis. Proper and routine vacuuming is the best way to ensure a clean home and furnishings that will last for a long time.

See CRI's publication, "Vacuum Cleaning Fun Facts" (PDF - 69 KB)