Where’s that smell coming from? Many homeowners, at one time or another, have noticed unpleasant odors in their homes. Most often their cause is from organic residues trapped in carpets, upholstery and mattresses. Sources of these residues can range from pets to something as simple as spilt milk.

Why are these smells more noteable in the Summer months? Warm and humid air enhances our sense of smell. That’s why odors caused by organic residues trapped in our carpets and upholstery tend to be more noticable during the summer months.

How do I eliminate these organic residues from my carpets, upholstery and mattress? Unlike many consumer products that temporarily mask odors, a more aggressive approach is needed. The organic residue must be neutralized to permanently eliminate the odor.

Can I eliminate these organic residues myself? Sometimes. Homeowners can purchase products formulated to eliminate organic residues. These are generally most useful when the exact location of the residue is known. More often, as is often the case with pets and children in the household, the exact source is unknown. Then contacting a professional resource like ABE Carpet Cleaning is recommended.

A.B.E. Carpet Cleaning attacks odors at their source. A.B.E.’s enzyme-activated deodorizer attacks and digests organic residues — effectively neutralizing them — eliminating the odor.

The best way to extend the life of your carpetsand rugs is by by cleaning regularly.

• Vacuum once a week.
• Clean professionally every 18 months.
• Treat spills and spots ASAP.

Oh no, your favorite aunt just spilled an entire plate of cranberry sauce on your dining room carpet!!! What should you do? You can often avoid professional carpet cleaning when those accidental spills occur by following these simple steps. First … be prepared. Spills happen. Usually at the most inconvenient times. What do I need to have on hand for treatment? You'll need to have these few common household items on hand to assist in the cleanup:

• Spray mist bottle filled with cold tap water
• Several bath or hand towels
• Mild detergent (dish soap or laundry)
• 3% Solution Hydrogen Peroxide (available at most grocery stores or drug stores)

1. Remove as much of the spilled substance from the carpet as possible.
2. Use a clean towel or several towels to soak up the liquid. Be sure to blot up and down to avoid spreading the spill.
3. Mist the area with cold water until a sufficient level of saturation is achieved.
4. Use a clean towel to absorb the liquid again.
5. Repeat this procedure, alternating between cold water and towel absorption.
6. Eventually the stain will no longer transfer to the towel.
7. Empty the mist bottle and fill with hot water and a small amount of detergent.
8. Repeat the mist and absorb procedure.
9. When the carpet appears clean, empty the mist bottle and fill with cold tap water.
10. Mist and absorb again to remove as much detergent residue as possible.
11. Finally, empty the mist bottle and spray a small amount of the hydrogen perioxide solution on the freshly cleaned spot. This will help remove any remaining residue.
12. Let dry thoroughly.
13. Repeat step number 11 if any residue remains.

The Carpet and Rug Institute recommendeds methods for deep cleaning carpets. "Deep" refers to cleaning designed to thoroughly remove residues and trapped soils. The Carpet & Rug Institute is the science–based source for the facts on carpet and rugs. This nonprofit trade association represents more than 95 percent of all carpet made in the United States.

A large number of carpet manufacturers recommend Hot Water Extraction as their preferred method of Deep Cleaning.

Research indicates that the hot water extraction system provides the best capability for cleaning. This system is commonly referred to as "steam cleaning," although no steam is actually generated.

The process consists of applying a cleaning agent into the carpet pile and using water in the extractor to recover the used solution and soil.

This can be done from a truck-mounted unit outside the home with only the hose and wand brought inside or by a portable system brought into the home. Several carpet manufacturer warranties require that the homeowner be able to show proof of periodic cleaning by hot water extraction (commonly called "steam" cleaning) by a professional cleaning service.

A.B.E. Carpet Cleaning and More utilizes Hot Water Extraction exclusively as their method of carpet cleaning.

To view CRI's (Carpet and Rug Institute) list of manufacturers recommending Hot Water Extraction as their preferred method of deep cleaning, click here.

If you have any questions concerning a carpet manufacturer's recommended cleaning method, please contact the manufacturer directly.

At one time or another homeowners will be faced with the dilemma of mud and dirt tracked in on their carpets and rugs.

Following these simple steps, with items found around the house, can minimize this problem until the next professional cleaning.

1. Allow mud and dirt to dry completely.
2. Break up the dried mud with a dull knife, then vacuum.
3. Apply a small amount of a detergent solution to the problem area (1/4 tsp. clear detergent per 1 qt. of water) and blot with a white paper towel to work into effected area.
4. Continue applying detergent and blotting until spot is removed.
5. Using a spray bottle, rinse with water and blot to remove excess moisture.
6. Be sure to repeat the rinsing and blotting process to completely remove detergent from the treated area.