My New Carpet

Get to know your new carpet. Check out our tips below for basic new carpet care.

Shedding

Shedding occurs when loose fibers appear as balls of fluff on the carpet surface or in the vacuum. It is normal for shedding to occur after installation and will cease with time.

Sprouting

Sometimes, a loose carpet fiber will appear above the carpet surface. Trim loose ends even with the carpet surface. Never pull out loose ends as this will damage the carpet.

Shading

Shading often occurs from foot traffic pushing carpet fibers in different directions. When light reflects off carpet fibers that have been pushed in different directions it creates an illusion of color change. This can be fixed by vacuuming in a uniform direction. Shading is a characteristic of styles such as plush and saxony.

Rippling

When experiencing levels of high humidity your carpet may ripple. Rippling is usually self-remedied when the carpet settles. However, if this is a continuing problem contact your Downs Decade retailer.

New Carpet Smell

After installation, your carpet may have that "new" smell. The odor is harmless, and will fade on its own within a few days to a week. To eliminate the smell sooner try vacuuming, ventilating the area by opening doors and windows while using fans to circulate the air.

Static Electricity

If you get a small shock after walking across your carpet, you are experiencing low humidity levels creating a static charge build-up. There are commercial products that you can apply to your carpet to reduce or eliminate static shock. Most synthetic carpets are pre-treated for static resistance.

Crushing

When you rearrange your furniture, you may notice indentations in your carpet. These crushed areas of carpet will spring back, but may need your help. Try brushing crushed carpet fibers or holding a steam iron 6 inches or more above the crushed carpet.