The Carpeteria Blog

Which bathroom style do you prefer? This one?

Or this one?

Leave us a comment to let us know which style is your favorite!

Simple elements can help take bathrooms from standard to particularly appealing. It’s often an unexpected touch such as a piece of furniture, unusual art, or an exciting accessory that makes bathrooms stand out.

In this case, the simple addition of a feminine upholstered chair helps a nice bathroom turn into a special space for relaxing. The old-fashioned feel of this space with its modern take on a claw-foot tub is enhanced by the chair. It also helps create the feel that this bathroom is a feminine escape from life’s challenges. Imagine taking a nice hot bath, drying off, and curling up in a robe and slippers to read a book in that comfy chair.

This room is a nice balance of feminine style without pushing into the ruffled little-girl look. The tile on the back wall supports that with its shades of pink and peach combined with a unique modern style.

There is only one decorating decision that doesn’t work. The curtains are too light and rather boring. Better to draw in one of the darker shades to help add contrast and personality. That is an easy fix.

What can you do to make your bathrooms unique? To make a difference, think beyond standard bath features to bring a special element to your baths.

Many people think you can’t have both pets and a clean nice home. In reality, only a few tactics can allow you to enjoy your dog or cat and your home as well.

One basic step is managing the connection between outside the house and inside. As with people, pets need to have a rug or mat to pick up the dirt. Because you can’t train them to wipe their feet, a washable rug just inside their pet door that’s long enough to ensure that they will step on it with all four feet helps keep your carpets clean.

Use a dust-free litter in your cat’s litter box, and change it frequently. If the box isn’t fresh, many cats will act out by choosing other locations as their personal bathroom. Also provide cats with an inviting scratching post or stand. Cats need to scratch to keep their nails short, and will prefer a location designed for them if it’s provided. A bit of catnip will convince them to make that choice.

For animals on the furniture, place large towels or sheets on the piece or pieces your pets prefer. Launder often and remove for guests, and you can keep furniture nice.

Shedding is another common concern. Brush pets often – preferably daily – to keep shedding to a minimum. For dogs, a small amount of flaxseed oil – about one teaspoon for every 15 pounds – helps reduce shedding. For your carpets, vacuum at least once a week to keep hair and surface dirt under control, more often if needed.

Regular bathing also helps dog skin stay nice and sweet-smelling. Teeth brushing (pick up some chicken-flavored toothpaste at your local pet market) also keeps dog breath reasonable.

Dogs and cats do add to your housekeeping chores, but the companionship and love makes the effort well worthwhile.

It’s getting close to that time of year! Pumpkin carving time!! This year, before you get started – take a few moments to bookmark or print this page so that in the event that you have a pumpkin mess during your carving, you won’t have to worry.

Below are some easy to follow instructions for removal of pumpkin stains from carpet.

Detergent Solution - Mix one fourth (1/4) teaspoon of a liquid dishwashing detergent per one (1) cup of lukewarm water. NEVER USE A STRONGER CONCENTRATION! Thorough rinsing is necessary to remove detergent residues that may cause rapid soiling. It may be necessary to rinse with warm water several times to completely remove residues. (See Residue Precautions.) Care should be used in selecting a detergent. Never use a laundry detergent of any type, because laundry detergents may contain optical brighteners (flourescent dyes) that dye the fiber. Do not select an automatic dishwashing detergent because many contain bleaching agents that destroy dyes and some fibers.

Vinegar Solution - Mix one (1) cup of white vinegar per two (2) cups of water. White vinegar is a 5% acetic acid solution. It is used most often to lower the alkalinity caused by detergent solutions or alkaline spills.

Warm Water – Lukewarm tap water should be used in most cases to rinse the cleaning solutions from the fiber. Failure to completely rinse the solutions from the fiber may cause accelerated soiling.

Ammonia Solution - Mix one (1) tablespoon of household ammonia per cup of water. Please note: Be aware that ammonia, if used improperly, can cause a color change. Be sure to test a hidden area.

When in doubt , Call a Professional – Professional cleaners have the ability and the equipment to use more aggressive cleaning solutions to remove stubborn spills. Always consider consulting a professional cleaner regarding any spot removal question.