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That Dark Line Around the Edge of Your Carpet, What Is It?

You vacuum regularly, and the centre of the carpet stays clean.

However, dark grey or black lines are appearing along skirting boards, under doors, or near radiators.

These spots may seem like dirt that your vacuum can’t reach. Known as filtration soiling or draught marks, these stains can develop gradually over time, even with regular carpet cleaning.

But what causes these marks, and can you remove them?

What are the dark lines around carpet edges?

Dark lines around carpet edges are typically due to filtration soiling.

This occurs when air flows through small gaps around the carpet, beneath doors, along skirting boards, or through floor gaps.

As air moves through the carpet fibres, the carpet acts as a filter, trapping tiny airborne particles within its fibres. Over time, these particles accumulate enough to form a noticeable dark line.

What causes filtration soiling?

The responsible particles may originate from various common sources inside your home.

These can include:

  • Dust
  • Fine dirt
  • Cooking particles
  • Smoke and soot
  • Airborne pollutants
  • Particles produced by candles or open fires

Since the particles are very fine, they can penetrate deep into the carpet fibers.

That’s why the marks usually develop gradually instead of appearing suddenly.

Where are draught marks most likely to appear?

Filtration soiling often develops wherever air regularly moves through or around carpeting.

You may notice dark lines:

  • Along skirting boards
  • Around doorways
  • Under internal doors
  • Along the edges of stairs
  • Near radiators
  • Around floor vents
  • Where carpet meets another flooring type

Darker patches may appear beneath closed doors due to air regularly flowing through the small gap between the door and the carpet.

Why doesn’t vacuuming remove draught marks?

Vacuuming is essential for maintaining your carpet, but household vacuums often struggle to remove filtration soiling.

The fine particles that cause dark lines around the edges are so small that air movement can draw them deep into the carpet fibres instead of removing them from the surface.

By the time you notice a draught mark, the accumulation could have been forming for months or even years.

Therefore, simply vacuuming repeatedly may not significantly improve its appearance.

Does filtration soiling mean your carpet is dirty?

Not necessarily. Regular vacuuming can still lead to filtration soiling.

The marks relate to airflow and particles common in homes, which explains why they appear in particular spots while nearby carpet stays cleaner.

Nevertheless, visible draught marks show that particles have built up in the carpet fibres.

Can you clean dark lines around carpet edges yourself?

Be cautious when attempting to remove draught marks.

Repeated scrubbing may harm carpet fibres without effectively removing the discolouration-causing particles.

Using excessive household cleaning products can leave residues, and some products may adversely affect the carpet’s colour or fibres, depending on the material.

If you decide to use a carpet cleaning product, make sure it suits your specific carpet and do a patch test in a hidden area first.

For persistent filtration soiling, professional cleaning is usually the best choice.

Can professional carpet cleaning remove filtration soiling?

Professional carpet cleaning can often greatly reduce draught marks, but complete removal isn’t always possible.

The effectiveness of the treatment depends on factors such as:

  • How long the marks have been present
  • The carpet fibre and construction
  • The severity of the build-up
  • What particles have caused the marks
  • Whether previous cleaning products have been used

A professional carpet cleaner can evaluate the carpet and select the right treatment instead of repeatedly using generic stain removers.

Irreversible discolouration can sometimes result from older or heavily soiled filtration.

Can you prevent dark lines from coming back?

Complete prevention of filtration soiling might not always be possible, especially where frequent airflow occurs beneath floors or near room edges.

Nonetheless, consistent carpet upkeep can minimise accumulation.

  • Vacuum regularly, paying special attention to skirting boards and doorways.
  • The crevice tool helps you reach hard-to-access spots missed by the main vacuum head.
  • Additionally, monitor sources of airborne particles in your home and ensure proper ventilation.

Periodic professional cleaning can also eliminate deeper deposits before they become more obvious.

Spotted dark lines around your carpet?

Dark edges on your carpet don’t necessarily indicate neglect; they may just be draught marks from years of air circulation and small particles settling in the fibres.

The key is to address them properly.

If you see dark lines along the edges that won’t go away with regular vacuuming, your local ServiceMaster Clean specialist can examine the carpet and suggest the best treatment.

Find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean specialist to discuss professional carpet cleaning, or book a clean online.

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Muddy Shoes Are Coming: Are Your Rugs & Carpets Ready?

The first wet days of autumn can quickly change what comes into your home.

Mud, moisture, grit, and dirt cling to shoes before being tracked into hallways, stairs, and living rooms.

Even if your carpet appears relatively clean, tiny particles can settle deep within its fibres. Taking a few small steps now can make maintaining your carpets easier throughout autumn and winter.

How can you protect carpets from muddy shoes?

The easiest way to keep carpets clean from muddy shoes is to block dirt at the entrance.

A high-quality doormat captures dirt and moisture from shoes before they touch your carpet.

If space allows, using an outdoor mat followed by an indoor one creates an additional barrier. Urging everyone to remove their shoes at the door can make a significant difference.

Though it seems straightforward, stopping dirt before it reaches your carpet is much simpler than cleaning it up afterwards.

Pay extra attention to entrance areas

Hallways and entrances tend to see the most foot traffic in your home. In autumn, they are also the first spots to get wet shoes, muddy boots, damp coats, and other outdoor items.

Vacuum these areas frequently instead of waiting until the carpet looks visibly dirty.

Grit and fine soil can settle deep between carpet fibres, and walking over these particles repeatedly can accelerate wear over time.

What should you do when muddy footprints appear?

If mud gets on your carpet, avoid scrubbing right away.

Wet mud tends to spread and can make a small stain worse. Instead, let it dry when possible and then gently vacuum up the loosened soil.

If a stain persists, consult your carpet’s care instructions before using any cleaning products or call ServiceMaster Clean to help.

Always test stain removers on a hidden small area first. Because different carpet fibres react differently to cleaning solutions, what works for one may not suit another.

Could stain protection help?

If your carpet frequently encounters children, pets, visitors, or muddy shoes, considering professional stain protection could be beneficial.

This treatment forms an extra barrier around the carpet fibres, giving you more time to address spills and stains before they set.

While it doesn’t make your carpet completely stain-proof and regular cleaning remains necessary, it can simplify daily upkeep and help shield your carpet from common accidents typical of a busy household.

Why clean your carpets before the wet weather?

While it might seem sensible to wait until winter before scheduling a professional carpet cleaning, there’s a strong reason to clean sooner.

Your carpet likely already has dust, pollen, pet hair, and fine dirt gathered during spring and summer.

When you add autumn mud and moisture, the build-up becomes even more substantial.

Getting your carpet professionally cleaned before the wetter months can eliminate this dirt and provide a fresher, cleaner surface as autumn begins.

Can professional carpet cleaning remove muddy marks?

Professional cleaning can effectively remove or reduce many common carpet stains, such as mud and tracked-in dirt.

Results depend on:

  • The carpet fibre
  • The type of stain
  • Previous treatments
  • How long the stain has been present

That’s why proper stain treatment is important.

Using the wrong products or scrubbing too much can harm fibres or complicate stain removal.

ServiceMaster Clean experts evaluate your carpet first to choose the best cleaning approach.

Don’t forget your stairs

Autumn foot traffic also impacts areas beyond hallways. Carpeted stairs endure continuous use daily.

Dirt tracked into the hallway can easily spread upstairs via feet, socks, and paws. Regular vacuuming helps eliminate loose debris.

Focus on the edges and front of each step, where dirt and wear tend to accumulate. For heavily used spots, professional cleaning can provide a deeper clean when regular vacuuming isn’t sufficient.

Get your carpets ready for autumn

You cannot keep every bit of autumn mud outside, especially in a busy home.

You can make it harder for dirt to get into your carpets in the first place.

  • Use good entrance mats
  • Remove shoes at the door
  • Vacuum high-traffic areas regularly
  • Deal with stains correctly
  • Consider professional stain protection
  • Book professional cleaning when deeper dirt starts to build up

If you want to protect carpets from muddy shoes and get them ready for the wetter months ahead, your local ServiceMaster Clean specialist can help.

Find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean specialist to discuss professional carpet cleaning and stain protection, or book a clean online.

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End of Caravan Season Cleaning Checklist: Don’t Forget the Interior

After a summer filled with weekends away, extended holidays, and many miles travelled, your caravan probably deserves some attention.

It may seem fairly clean at first glance, but consider everything that has gone through it during the summer—sandy shoes, muddy paws, food spills, grass, dust, and maybe a few rainy days when everyone was indoors.

Before closing the door on another summer, it’s wise to give the interior a thorough check. Our end of caravan season cleaning checklist highlights some key areas to address before your camper is used less often or stored away.

1. Start with a thorough vacuum

Begin by clearing as much as possible from the floors and seating areas.

Vacuum carpets thoroughly, paying special attention to edges, beneath furniture, and into corners, as these spots can accumulate a surprising amount of grit, crumbs, and dust over a busy summer.

Use appropriate vacuum attachments for upholstered seats, and clean between cushions where crumbs and debris often hide.

If your rugs are removable and care instructions permit, take them outside and vacuum both sides.

2. Check carpets for stains

After cleaning any loose dirt, examine your caravan carpets carefully.

Have you overlooked any stains? Spills from food and drinks, muddy shoes, and pet accidents are easy to forget when you’re having fun.

Leaving these stains uncleaned for months can make them harder to remove later. Avoid scrubbing stains aggressively, as this can spread the stain or damage the carpet fibres.

If you’re unsure of the stain’s cause or the right cleaning method, consult a professional carpet cleaner to avoid potential damage.

3. Give the upholstery some attention

Caravan seating gets used a lot during summer. It’s where you have breakfast, unwind after outings, hide from afternoon rain, and sometimes even nap.

As a result, the upholstery can accumulate body oils, dust, food crumbs, pet hair, and smells.

Vacuum the seats thoroughly and look for stains. Focus especially on armrests, cushions, and the most-used spots.

Professional upholstery cleaning can effectively remove embedded dirt and revitalise the fabric after a busy season.

4. Don’t forget the curtains

Curtains often go unnoticed.

While they might not appear dirty, they can accumulate dust, pollen, and odours over time, especially when caravan windows are frequently opened.

Always review the care instructions before washing or cleaning caravan curtains yourself, as certain fabrics need specialised treatment and could shrink or get damaged if cleaned improperly.

For a thorough clean without risking fabric damage, professional curtain cleaning can be very beneficial.

5. Clean your hard flooring properly

Caravan hard floors take a beating during summer.

Sand, grit, grass, and mud are tracked inside, while food and drink spills pose additional challenges.

Start by vacuuming or sweeping to pick up loose debris. Grit can scratch certain flooring if it’s dragged during mopping.

Next, clean the floor with a product appropriate for its type, avoiding excessive water. Too much moisture can seep into joins and edges, potentially causing damage.

6. Check the areas you rarely see

Safely move items aside and inspect beneath seating, around furniture edges, and in corners.

These quieter spots often gather dust and debris since they are seldom cleaned during a quick holiday tidy-up. You may be surprised by what has built up since summer began.

7. Make sure everything is completely dry

This step is important.

Avoid closing your caravan until carpets, upholstery, and flooring are fully dry.

Trapped moisture inside an enclosed caravan can cause musty odours and promote mould growth.

Ensure good ventilation and verify that all cleaned items are thoroughly dry before closing windows and storing the caravan.

Should you professionally clean your caravan at the end of summer?

If your caravan has experienced a busy season, professional cleaning might be worthwhile.

While regular vacuuming and spot cleaning maintain cleanliness, professional services can eliminate dirt and residues embedded deeper in carpets and upholstery.

This is especially beneficial if you have pets, stubborn stains, persistent odours, or an interior that no longer feels as fresh as it did at the beginning of summer.

Start next caravan season with a fresher interior

Cleaning your caravan at the end of the season means less dirt, dust, and staining sitting there for months.

It also makes that first trip next year a little nicer. Instead of opening the door and immediately thinking about cleaning, you can start getting ready for your next break.

Work through your end of caravan season cleaning checklist now, and give the carpets, upholstery, curtains and flooring the attention they have earned after a busy summer.

For professional caravan carpet and upholstery cleaning in your area, contact your nearest ServiceMaster Clean.

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Washable Rugs vs Professional Rug Cleaning: What’s the Difference?

Washable rugs are increasingly popular for busy households, as their convenience allows for easy cleaning in a washing machine, ideal for families with children, pets, or accidental spills.

However, washable rugs don’t always eliminate the need for professional cleaning.

The best approach depends on the rug’s material, construction, the type of stains or dirt, and, most crucially, the manufacturer’s cleaning advice.

What is a washable rug?

A washable rug is meant for home cleaning, typically using a domestic washing machine.

Some feature a removable top layer, while others can be washed whole. They are practical for kitchens, children’s rooms, hallways, and other high-traffic areas.

However, “washable” does not mean all rugs can go directly into the washing machine; it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s care instructions for temperature, detergents, spin speeds, and drying methods.

What is professional rug cleaning?

Professional rug cleaning begins with an assessment of the specific rug.

A specialist evaluates its fibres, construction, condition, colours, and level of dirt before determining the appropriate cleaning method.

Cleaning may be done on-site, or the rug may be taken for specialised cleaning, especially if it can’t be machine washed, is delicate, heavily soiled, or high-value.

Washable rugs vs professional rug cleaning: which cleans deeper?

This is where the difference can be significant.

Machine washing can work well for the routine cleaning of rugs specifically designed for it. It can remove everyday dirt and help deal with smaller spills.

Professional rug cleaning is intended to tackle dirt and residue that have settled deeper into the fibres.

That can include:

  • Dust and fine grit
  • Pet hair and residues
  • Food and drink spills
  • Pollen and allergens
  • Everyday odours
  • Embedded dirt in high-traffic areas

If a rug still looks dull or smells less than fresh after regular home cleaning, it may need more than another trip through the washing machine.

Can all rugs be washed at home?

Short answer: no.

This is a key distinction when comparing washable rugs to professional cleaning.

Wool, Oriental, Persian, handwoven, antique, and other speciality rugs often need more delicate handling.

Improper washing or drying can cause fibres to shrink, colours to bleed, or the rug’s construction to be damaged. Just because a rug fits in your washing machine doesn’t mean it should go there.

Always check the care label first. If in doubt, consult a professional before attempting to clean it.

What about stains?

A washable rug makes it easy to handle everyday spills at home.

Stubborn stains are different.

Red wine, coffee, grease, pet accidents and older stains can penetrate further into the rug. Repeatedly washing the entire rug may not necessarily remove the problem.

Using the wrong product or temperature can also make some stains harder to treat.

Professional cleaners can assess the stain alongside the rug fibre before choosing an appropriate treatment.

Remember that no cleaning method can guarantee the removal of every stain. Permanent dye or fibre damage cannot always be reversed.

What about pet smells and other odours?

If an odour is near the surface, washing might be effective.

However, if it has penetrated deeper into the fibres or backing, the situation becomes more complex. This is especially true with pet accidents, where the visible stain may vanish while the odour persists.

In such cases, professional cleaning offers a more comprehensive solution, ensuring that embedded smells are thoroughly addressed.

Is professional cleaning only for expensive rugs?

A rug doesn’t have to be antique or highly valuable to justify professional cleaning. Often, it’s just a rug you love and want to preserve.

Large rugs can be particularly challenging to clean at home, as they become heavy when wet and require thorough drying. Failing to dry them properly can lead to issues like unpleasant odours.

Professional cleaning offers an alternative when home washing is impractical or no longer effective.

So, are washable rugs worth it?

For many households, yes.

Washable rugs can make routine maintenance much easier, especially in busy areas of the home. If the manufacturer says the rug is machine-washable, following those instructions can be a useful part of its care.

But washable and professionally cleaned are not really competing ideas.

One offers everyday convenience. The other provides specialist care when a rug needs a deeper clean, stain treatment or a cleaning method suited to its particular fibres and construction.

When should you professionally clean your rug?

Consider professional rug cleaning if:

  • Your rug cannot be machine washed.
  • Stains keep returning.
  • It has persistent pet or household odours.
  • The colours have started to look dull.
  • It is heavily soiled.
  • You own a wool, Persian, Oriental, handwoven or delicate rug.
  • You’re unsure how to clean it.
  • You washed it at home, but it still doesn’t feel properly clean.

Need help deciding how to clean your rug?

The best cleaning method is the one that suits your rug.

Your local ServiceMaster Clean specialist can assess your rug and recommend an appropriate cleaning method based on its material, construction and condition.

With locally owned ServiceMaster Clean businesses across the UK, specialists understand that different rugs need different care.

If your rug needs more than routine cleaning at home, contact your nearest ServiceMaster Clean or book a professional clean online today.

Alternatively, you can book your rug cleaning online.

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Professional Carpet Cleaning vs DIY Cleaning Machines

What’s better: professional carpet cleaning vs DIY cleaning machines?

Hiring a carpet cleaning machine can seem like an easy solution.

You notice your carpets looking a little tired, spot a few stains, and decide it is time for a refresh. A quick trip to hire a machine feels like the convenient option.

For light maintenance, DIY carpet-cleaning machines can help. However, there are important differences between hiring a machine and booking a professional carpet clean.

Understanding those differences helps you choose the right option for your home and your carpets. Read on to find out the differences between professional carpet cleaning vs DIY cleaning machines.

How do DIY carpet cleaning machines work?

Most DIY carpet cleaning machines use water, cleaning solution, and suction to remove dirt from carpets.

They are designed for home use, making them accessible and easy to operate. For surface-level dirt or a quick refresh, they can improve the appearance of carpets. However, they do have limitations.

Carpets are made from different fibres, have different levels of wear, and respond differently to moisture and cleaning products. A single approach does not always suit every carpet.

Professional equipment provides a deeper clean

One of the biggest differences between professional carpet cleaning and DIY cleaning is the equipment.

Professional machines are designed to remove dirt, allergens, and residue from deeper within carpet fibres.

Over time, carpets collect:

  • Dust
  • Pet hair
  • Pollen
  • Food particles
  • Everyday dirt and debris

Vacuuming and basic cleaning help with the surface, but they cannot always reach what has settled deeper down.

Professional carpet cleaning targets this hidden build-up.

Moisture control matters

One common issue with DIY carpet cleaning is overusing water. It is easy to assume that more water means a better clean.

Unfortunately, over-wetting carpets can cause problems. If too much moisture remains, carpets take longer to dry and can develop unpleasant odours.

In some cases, excess moisture can affect the carpet backing.

Professional carpet cleaners understand how much water each carpet needs and use equipment designed to remove moisture effectively.

Stain removal requires the right approach

Not all stains are the same.

Coffee, wine, mud, grease, and pet accidents all behave differently. The carpet fibre also changes how a stain should be treated.

  • Using the wrong product or technique can sometimes make a stain harder to remove.
  • Scrubbing can spread the mark.
  • Incorrect products can leave residue or even damage fibres.

Professional cleaners assess the stain and carpet type before choosing the most suitable treatment.

DIY cleaning can leave residue behind

A carpet may look clean immediately after being cleaned with a DIY machine.

The problem is what gets left behind.

If cleaning solution is not fully removed, residue can remain within the fibres. This residue can attract new dirt, causing carpets to look dirty again sooner than expected.

Professional cleaning focuses on removing both the dirt and the cleaning solution used during the process.

Different carpets need different care

Every carpet is different. While two carpets may look similar, the fibres, materials, and construction can completely change how they should be cleaned.

  • A wool carpet should not always be treated the same way as a synthetic carpet.
  • Luxury carpets, delicate fibres, and older carpets often require specialist knowledge.

Professional cleaners identify the carpet type and choose the safest cleaning method. This helps protect the appearance, texture, and lifespan of the carpet.

Which option is right for you?

DIY carpet cleaning machines can be useful for light cleaning and short-term maintenance.

Professional carpet cleaning is usually the better choice when:

  • Your carpets have not been cleaned for a long time
  • You have stubborn stains
  • There are lingering odours
  • You have pets or children
  • Your carpet needs a deeper clean
  • You want to protect your carpet long term

Essentially, both professional carpet cleaning and DIY cleaning machines have their place. It depends on the result you want.

Protect your carpets with professional carpet cleaning

Your carpets are used every single day.

They handle footsteps, spills, pets, visitors, and everything life brings into your home.

While DIY machines can provide a temporary refresh, professional carpet cleaning offers a deeper, safer, and longer-lasting result.

If your carpets are ready for a proper clean, contact your nearest ServiceMaster Clean or book online today.

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How Often Should You Professionally Clean Your Carpets?

Vacuuming your carpets is probably part of your normal cleaning routine. It keeps your home looking tidy, removes surface dirt, and helps maintain your carpets week after week.

But even with regular vacuuming, carpets collect much more than you can see. Dust, allergens, pet hair, oils, and everyday dirt gradually settle deeper into the fibres. Over time, this can affect how your carpets look, feel, and even how fresh your home seems.

So, how often should you professionally clean your carpets?

The answer depends on your home.

How often should carpets be professionally cleaned?

As a general guide, most carpets should be professionally cleaned every 12 months.

However, every household is different.

A quiet home with minimal foot traffic will have very different needs compared to a busy family home with children, pets, and visitors.

Here is a simple guide:

  • Standard household use: every 12 months
  • Homes with children: every 6 to 12 months
  • Homes with pets: every 6 months
  • High-traffic areas: more frequently if needed

The more your carpets experience, the more care they need.

Why vacuuming alone is not enough

Vacuuming is important. It removes loose dirt, dust, and debris from the surface.

However, it cannot remove everything.

Tiny particles work their way deep into carpet fibres. Every time you walk across the carpet, these particles can move further down. Over time, this can cause carpets to look dull, feel flat, and wear faster.

Professional carpet cleaning removes the deeper build-up that household cleaning cannot always reach.

Homes with children may need more frequent cleaning

Family homes are busy.

Food crumbs, drink spills, muddy shoes, craft materials, and everyday accidents are all part of normal life.

Even when stains are cleaned quickly, small amounts of residue can remain within the carpet.

Professional cleaning helps remove this build-up and keeps carpets feeling fresher for longer.

How often should pet owners clean their carpets?

Pets bring a lot of joy into a home. They also bring a little extra cleaning.

Pet hair, outdoor dirt, pollen, and natural oils from fur can become trapped within carpet fibres.

You may notice certain areas wear faster too, especially favourite sleeping spots or routes through the home.

For homes with pets, professional carpet cleaning every 6 months is often recommended.

Do certain rooms need cleaning more often?

Not every carpet in your home experiences the same level of use.

Some areas naturally work harder.

  • Hallways collect dirt from shoes.
  • Living rooms see constant movement.
  • Stairs experience repeated foot traffic in the same places.
  • Bedrooms often require less frequent cleaning because they are used less frequently.

A professional cleaner can recommend the best schedule for your home rather than treating every room the same.

Does professional cleaning extend carpet life?

Yes, regular professional cleaning can help protect your carpets.

Dirt and grit trapped inside fibres act like an abrasive. Over time, movement across the carpet causes these particles to damage the fibres.

Removing this build-up helps maintain the carpet’s appearance, texture, and condition.

Properly caring for your carpets can help delay the need for replacement.

When should you book a carpet clean sooner?

Sometimes your carpets need attention before your usual schedule.

Consider professional carpet cleaning if:

  • Your carpet no longer feels fresh after vacuuming
  • Stains keep returning
  • Rooms have lingering odours
  • Colours look dull
  • High-traffic areas look flattened
  • You cannot remember the last time they were professionally cleaned

These are usually signs that dirt has settled deeper into the carpet.

Professional carpet cleaning for your home

There is no one-size-fits-all rule for every home.

How often you have your carpets professionally cleaned depends on your lifestyle, who lives there, and how they are used daily.

Regular professional cleaning helps remove hidden dirt, refresh your home, and protect your carpets for years to come. If you are unsure whether your carpets need cleaning, your local ServiceMaster Clean specialist can help.

Contact your nearest ServiceMaster Clean or book online today.

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Case study: Student accommodation turnaround cleaning

Student accommodation experiences some of the highest levels of wear and tear of any residential environment. With tight turnaround times between tenancies, maintaining consistently high standards of cleanliness is essential to provide incoming students with a fresh, welcoming living space.

A leading provider of student accommodation across Exeter needed a reliable cleaning partner to prepare multiple sites between occupancies, often within just a few days.

ServiceMaster Clean & Restore Devon was appointed to deliver a comprehensive turnaround cleaning programme that met demanding timescales while maintaining consistently high standards.

The challenge

Student accommodation turnarounds pose a number of challenges:

  • Tight deadlines – cleaning up to 50 studio apartments within as little as four days.
  • High standards – ensuring kitchens, bathrooms, appliances and living areas were cleaned to a consistently high standard despite heavy use.
  • Clear accountability – providing site managers with confidence that every room had been cleaned without adding to their workload.

The ServiceMaster solution

ServiceMaster Clean & Restore Devon implemented a structured cleaning programme designed specifically for student accommodation.

  • Kitchens and appliances – Deep cleaning and degreasing of worktops, splashbacks, cupboards, ovens, hobs and refrigerators, inside and out.
  • Bathrooms – Descaling and sanitising showers, toilets and basins, with taps, fittings and glass cleaned to a high finish.
  • Floor care – Vacuuming carpets beneath beds and furniture, together with mechanical cleaning of hard floors to restore heavily used surfaces.
  • Finishing touches – Internal windows cleaned, cobwebs removed, walls spot cleaned, and skirting boards, door handles and light switches wiped down.

Digital quality checks

Every studio apartment was photographed before and after cleaning, providing the accommodation team with a clear record that work had been completed to the required standard.

Efficient site management

Our team collected and returned keys through site reception, helping the turnaround run smoothly while keeping disruption to a minimum.

The results

  • All accommodation completed on schedule, even within the tight turnaround periods.
  • Rooms ready for incoming students, allowing new residents to move straight in.
  • Complete photographic records for every studio apartment, giving the accommodation team confidence that standards had been met.
  • An ongoing partnership to support future student accommodation changeovers.

Planning your next student accommodation turnaround?

Talk to ServiceMaster Clean & Restore Devon about a reliable, fully managed cleaning service that helps you meet tight deadlines without compromising on quality.

Call 01803 200 278 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk.

 

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Returning From Holiday? Here’s How to Refresh Your Home

There is nothing quite like coming home after a holiday. You don’t want to leave, but you also look forward to getting home!

Your own bed. Your favourite chair. A familiar routine.

At the same time, returning home can help you notice things you hadn’t seen before leaving. Dust on the shelves, a carpet that appears a bit flat, or a sofa that no longer feels as fresh as it used to.

Even if your home was spotless before you went away, a few simple jobs can help it feel welcoming again.

Open the windows

Start by letting fresh air circulate in your home. Even a clean house can feel a bit stale after being closed up for a week or two.

Opening windows helps replace stagnant air, making rooms feel fresher almost instantly.

If the weather permits, keep the windows open as you continue with your cleaning routine.

Vacuum your carpets and rugs

Dust accumulates even when no one is home.

Before unpacking, thoroughly vacuum your carpets and rugs, especially in entrances, hallways, and living areas where dust tends to gather.

If you have pets, you might also find some hair that has settled while you were away.

Regular vacuuming is an easy way to make your entire home feel cleaner.

Refresh your upholstery

Even if your sofa and chairs haven’t been used while you were away, upholstery still gathers dust from the air.

Shake out the cushions, vacuum the fabric with the right attachment, and clean any leather furniture with suitable products.

If your upholstery was already due for a professional cleaning before your holiday, coming home is a great reminder to schedule one.

Give hard floors some attention

Hard floors tend to reveal dust quickly, especially in dry summer conditions.

Start by sweeping or vacuuming to pick up loose dirt, then mop with an appropriate cleaner for your flooring type.

Whether your floors are luxury vinyl, laminate, tile, or stone, selecting the right cleaning product helps preserve their finish and enhance their appearance.

Wash away holiday dust

Dust settles surprisingly fast in an empty home.

Use a microfiber cloth to wipe surfaces, skirting boards, shelves, and window sills before putting everything back.

This small step makes your home feel significantly fresher.

Check for stains you had forgotten about

Sometimes, marks that were present before your holiday become more noticeable upon your return.

You might notice a coffee stain on the carpet, a mark on the dining chair, or a spill on the rug that hasn’t fully cleaned up.

Instead of postponing their cleaning, now is a good time to tackle them. New stains are typically easier to clean, but even older marks can often be improved with professional cleaning.

Think beyond the visible dirt

A home can appear tidy while still harbouring dust, allergens, body oils, and odours deep in carpets and upholstery.

Professional cleaning eliminates this concealed buildup, making your home not only look cleaner but also feel fresher.

Additionally, it helps preserve carpets, rugs, upholstery, and hard floors from unnecessary wear, ensuring they remain in good condition longer.

Start the next season with a fresh home

Returning from holiday often feels like a fresh start.

Giving your home a proper refresh helps extend that feeling for a little longer. Clean carpets, fresh upholstery, spotless rugs, and well-maintained hard floors all make a noticeable difference to how your home looks and feels.

If your home needs more than a quick tidy after your holiday, professional cleaning can help restore the freshness that everyday cleaning cannot always achieve.

Find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean or book online today.

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Why Summer Is Tougher on Homes With Pets Than You Think

If you have a pet at home, you know they’re like family. You also know they tend to bring the outdoors inside.

During summer, this issue increases: longer walks, extended garden visits, warmer weather, and open doors all put more strain on your carpets, upholstery, rugs, and hard floors than in other seasons.

Here’s why summer can be particularly tough on homes with pets.

More time outside means more dirt inside

Summer typically means your dog spends more time outside.

Whether they’re chasing a ball in the yard, running through the park, or exploring woodland trails, each adventure leaves something behind.

Dust, grass, pollen, mud, tiny stones, and even tree sap can cling to their paws. Much of it ends up on your carpets and floors.

Cats can also bring dust and pollen back inside after outdoor excursions.

Pet hair seems to get everywhere

Many pets shed naturally year-round, with increased shedding in warmer months as they shed their winter coats.

Loose hair often lands on sofas, rugs, carpets, curtains, and in hard floor corners. It also traps dust and allergens, which can make your home feel less fresh over time.

While regular vacuuming helps, it can’t eliminate all hair and debris concealed deep within carpets and upholstery.

Warm weather makes odours more noticeable

Heat tends to amplify odours. Pet smells that are barely seen in winter can become much more noticeable in warmer weather.

Carpets, rugs, and upholstery naturally absorb odours over time. As temperatures climb, these trapped odours become easier to notice.

Professional cleaning targets and eliminates the odour source, not just disguises it.

More accidents can happen

Hot weather alters daily routines. Pets tend to drink more water, stay outside longer, and frequently move between the garden and the house.

Summer showers can leave wet paws and muddy footprints and sometimes cause accidents.

Prompt action can prevent stains from setting, but stubborn spills may require professional cleaning to be fully removed.

Pollen affects pets, too

Many people overlook the fact that pets can bring pollen into the home.

It accumulates on their fur when they are outside and is then transferred onto carpets, rugs, and furniture.

Over time, these allergens build up inside soft furnishings.

Regular professional cleaning effectively removes pollen deeply embedded in fibres, contributing to a fresher, healthier environment for everyone in the household.

Your favourite seat is probably your pet’s too

Most pets have a preferred spot where they like to relax, such as the same chair, sofa cushion, or rug each day.

This frequent use causes visible wear over time, with hair accumulating, fabrics becoming flattened, and natural oils transferring into the upholstery.

Even the cleanest pets leave traces in their favourite areas.

Professional upholstery cleaning can refresh furniture and enhance its appearance, making it feel and look as good as new.

A little maintenance goes a long way

Living with pets shouldn’t cause ongoing worries about your home.

Adopting simple habits can make a significant difference:

  • Regularly vacuum with a HEPA filter if possible.
  • Clean muddy paws before pets enter the house.
  • Frequently wash pet bedding.
  • Maintain regular grooming to minimise loose hair around your space.

Additionally, professional cleaning once or twice annually helps eliminate dirt, allergens, and odours that daily cleaning misses.

Enjoy summer with your pets, not the mess

Summer is the perfect time to create memories with your pets, whether through long walks, garden afternoons, or relaxing at home.

Regular professional cleaning of carpets, upholstery, rugs, and hard floors keeps your home cleaner and fresher, ensuring it’s prepared for whatever your four-legged family members bring in.

Find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean or book online today.

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School’s Out: What That Means for Your Flooring, Carpets and Upholstery

The summer holidays are something many families look forward to.

The school run stops. Mornings become a little more relaxed. Days are spent in the garden, at the beach, in the park, or visiting friends and family.

One part of your home likely isn’t excited about the upcoming school holidays: your flooring, carpets, and upholstery.

With children spending more time at home, your floors and furniture naturally see more use. It is all part of family life, but it can take its toll surprisingly quickly.

More feet through the house

During term time, the house tends to be quieter during the day.

However, this changes during holidays when children frequently move between the garden and the house.

Friends visit, and family members come and go throughout the day.

Each trip indoors brings in dust, grass, mud, sand, tiny stones, and pollen. Much of this debris ends up in your carpets, rugs, and flooring.

Summer spills become everyday accidents

School holidays often lead to eating in whatever space is available, such as enjoying ice creams on the sofa, drinking fruit juice in the living room, snacking on crisps during a movie, or using tomato ketchup after a barbecue.

Most families have experienced at least one of these situations.

Although quick action can prevent some damage, repeated spills can leave stubborn stains and residues that household cleaning alone may struggle to fully remove.

Sofas work harder than ever

Your sofa naturally becomes the hub of family activity during the holidays. It’s the spot where children watch movies, play games, read books, and occasionally have lunch.

Over time, the upholstery collects body oils, crumbs, dust, pet hair, and everyday grime.

While it may appear clean, it often feels less fresh than at the start of summer. Professional upholstery cleaning eliminates this hidden buildup and revitalises your sofa’s comfort.

Hard floors are not immune

Hard floors are often thought to require little upkeep. While they simplify daily cleaning, summer can still be challenging.

Garden grit acts like sandpaper, slowly dulling finishes on luxury vinyl, laminate, tile, and other surfaces. Spills from drinks and sunscreen residue can make floors look worn if not cleaned properly.

Choosing the right cleaning products is essential for protecting the finish and maintaining the floors’ appearance.

Rugs collect more than you think

Rugs are typically located in the most used areas of the home, such as hallways, living rooms, and play zones, where there is constant activity during the holidays.

This frequent foot traffic causes rugs to accumulate dust, grass, pollen, pet hair, and food crumbs over time.

While regular vacuuming clears surface dirt, dirt that settles deeper into the fibres remains.

Professional cleaning is effective at removing this hidden dirt and can help prolong your rug’s life.

A clean home is easier to enjoy

Summer is a time for creating memories rather than stressing over muddy footprints or spills.

While regular cleaning during the holidays is helpful, it’s important to remember that carpets, upholstery, rugs, and hard floors also benefit from deep cleaning.

Refreshing your home during or after the school holidays helps eliminate months of dirt buildup and gets it ready for the busy months ahead.

Give your home a fresh start this summer

School holidays can be hard on your floors, carpets, and upholstery, but they don’t have to cause lasting damage.

Professional cleaning removes visible dirt and hidden grime, leaving your home cleaner, fresher, and better prepared for the rest of summer.

Find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean or book online today.

Summer turnaround cleaning for rental properties

Summer is often one of the busiest periods of the year for property changeovers. Student accommodation, holiday lets, and HMOs commonly have only a short window between occupants, so timely cleaning is essential.

A clean, fresh, and well-presented property creates a positive experience from the moment someone walks through the door, while also helping to protect your investment and identify maintenance issues before they become more costly.

Turnaround cleaning is about more than simply making a property look presentable. It requires careful planning, attention to detail and the ability to work to tight deadlines. From removing stubborn stains and built-up grime to tackling high-touch areas and refreshing communal spaces, a professional clean ensures every property is ready for occupation.

The team at ServiceMaster Clean & Restore Devon has extensive experience delivering high-quality turnaround cleans within demanding timescales, helping to minimise void periods and keep properties on schedule. Whether it’s a single property or a large portfolio, we can tailor our services to meet your exact requirements.

Our turnaround cleaning service can include:

  • Deep cleaning of kitchens and bathrooms
  • Carpet and hard floor cleaning
  • Window cleaning
  • Appliance cleaning
  • Sanitisation of high-touch surfaces
  • Upholstery cleaning
  • Exterior pressure washing and gutter cleaning
  • Optional specialist services such as ozone treatment and fogging

We work with universities, private student accommodation providers, housing associations, landlords, holiday let owners and commercial property managers across Devon and the surrounding areas. Our reliable, flexible service can be scaled to suit projects of any size and works around your turnaround schedule.

If you have multiple properties to prepare this summer, planning ahead can help ensure everything is completed on time. Our experienced teams can work around your schedule, helping you minimise downtime, maintain high standards and keep your properties running smoothly from one occupant to the next.

For a no-obligation quote, contact the ServiceMaster Clean & Restore Devon team on 01803 200 278 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk.

Is your building ready for autumn?

For many organisations, especially schools and universities, summer is the ideal time to carry out cleaning and maintenance tasks that are difficult to schedule during busier periods. It also offers the chance to prepare your property for autumn and winter, before the colder, wetter months begin to take their toll.

Rather than waiting until problems arise, a proactive cleaning programme can help protect your building, improve the working environment and reduce the need for reactive maintenance.

With quieter buildings and greater flexibility in the summer months, now is the perfect time to tackle the areas that are often overlooked for the rest of the year.

The team at ServiceMaster Clean & Restore Devon recommends considering the following:

  • Hard floor maintenance – Deep cleaning and restorative treatments can extend the life of flooring and enhance its appearance.
  • Carpet cleaning – Removing accumulated dirt and allergens helps create a cleaner, healthier workplace.
  • High-level cleaning – Dust can quickly build up on beams, pipework, lighting and ventilation systems, particularly in schools, warehouses and industrial premises.
  • Washroom deep cleans – A thorough clean can improve hygiene standards and help maintain a positive impression among staff and visitors.
  • External areas – Cleaning entrances, pathways and external surfaces helps keep your premises looking professional and reduces slip hazards.
  • Gutter cleaning – Clearing leaves, moss, and debris from gutters and downpipes helps ensure rainwater can drain properly, reducing the risk of water damage, damp, and costly repairs during the wetter months.
  • Ventilation and air quality – Removing dust and contaminants from relevant areas can contribute to a cleaner indoor environment.

Planning these works during quieter months helps minimise disruption to your day-to-day operations and ensures your building is in the best possible condition before autumn and winter bring increased footfall, wetter weather and greater wear and tear.

If you’re unsure where to start, our team can carry out a site visit and recommend a cleaning programme tailored to your building, budget and operational requirements.

For a no-obligation quote, contact the ServiceMaster Clean & Restore Devon team on 01803 200278 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk.

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The Truth About Sunlight and Upholstery

A bright, sunny room is unmatched. Natural light enhances your home, making it feel larger, warmer, and more welcoming.

However, while sunshine is great for your living space, it is not always kind to your furniture.

Over time, sunlight can alter the look and condition of your upholstery. These changes are usually so slow that many homeowners don’t notice them until the damage has occurred.

The good news is that there are simple ways to protect your furniture and keep it looking its best for longer.

Sunlight causes colours to fade

The most significant effect sunlight has on upholstery is fading.

Ultraviolet (UV) rays gradually degrade the dyes in fabrics, causing colours to fade and appear washed out.

You may notice that one arm of the sofa looks lighter than the other, or that the cushions closest to the window no longer match the rest of the furniture.

Dark colours usually fade faster, although lighter fabrics are also susceptible.

Heat can weaken upholstery fibres

The issues are not solely caused by sunlight.

Extended exposure to heat can slowly dry out upholstery fibres, making fabrics less soft and flexible over time.

Natural materials like cotton and wool are especially vulnerable, though some synthetic fabrics may also become more fragile after prolonged sun exposure.

Although these changes occur gradually, they can shorten the overall lifespan of your furniture.

Summer highlights what winter hides

Bright sunshine has an additional effect: it enhances visibility.

Dust, flattened fibres, light stains, and worn spots are far easier to see when sunlight shines through your windows.

Many assume their upholstery has suddenly become dirty, but in reality, the sunlight is simply exposing the gradual buildup over time.

Open windows bring more than fresh air

During summer, many people keep windows and patio doors open all day.

This helps make homes more comfortable but also lets in pollen, dust, and airborne particles.

Upholstery serves as a filter, trapping these particles in the fabric.

Additionally, the increased use of furniture during summer holidays can cause sofas and chairs to appear worn out more rapidly than anticipated.

Small changes can protect your furniture

You don’t have to keep your curtains closed all summer. A few simple habits can reduce the effects of sunlight.

Rotate cushions regularly to ensure even wear, and move decorative cushions now and then to prevent permanent colour changes.

During the hottest parts of the day, close blinds or curtains if furniture is in direct sunlight. If feasible, shift smaller furniture away from windows every few months.

These minor adjustments can lead to noticeable improvements over time.

Professional upholstery cleaning helps maintain your furniture

Although professional cleaning cannot reverse sun fading, it can rejuvenate your upholstery’s appearance.

Dust, body oils, allergens, and everyday dirt accumulate inside the fibres. Clearing this build-up enhances the brightness and softness of the fabrics.

Additionally, professional cleaning helps maintain the upholstery’s condition, extending its lifespan.

Regular maintenance is one of the easiest methods to safeguard your furniture investment.

Looking after your upholstery all year round

Sunlight helps make a home welcoming, but it can also affect your furniture.

To preserve your upholstery’s appearance, comfort, and durability, protect it from prolonged exposure to sunlight and have it professionally cleaned.

If your sofa or favourite chair appears worn out, expert upholstery cleaning can revitalise it.

Find your local ServiceMaster Clean or book a cleaning online today.

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How Can Summer Heat Affect Your Carpets and Upholstery?

Summer is a welcome change for most of us, with longer days, warmer weather, and more time spent enjoying our homes.

However, while you may be making the most of the sunshine, your carpets and upholstery may be working a little harder than usual.

Heat, sunlight, and increased activity all affect the soft furnishings in your home. The changes are often gradual, so you may not notice them straight away, but over time they can affect both appearance and lifespan.

Here’s how summer heat affects carpets and upholstery, and what you can do to keep them looking their best.

Sunlight can fade colours

Natural light brightens your home, but prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can gradually fade carpets, rugs, and upholstery.

Areas near patio doors, conservatories, and large windows are usually the first to show signs of fading. You may notice that one section of the carpet looks lighter than another, or that your favourite armchair has faded where the sun hits it every afternoon.

While fading cannot always be completely prevented, closing blinds during the hottest part of the day or rotating rugs and cushions can help reduce uneven wear.

Heat makes trapped odours more noticeable

Have you ever noticed your sofa smells different on a hot day?

Higher temperatures can make odours trapped in carpet and upholstery fibres more noticeable. Pet smells, cooking odours, moisture, and everyday use become easier to detect as the weather warms up.

The heat is not creating the smell. It simply makes what is already there more obvious.

Professional cleaning removes the source of those odours rather than masking them.

More time outdoors means more dirt indoors

Summer usually means more trips to the garden.

Children run in and out. Pets spend more time outside. Guests visit for barbecues. Garden shoes find their way into the hallway.

Every trip brings in fine dust, grass, pollen, and grit.

Although these particles are small, they settle deep into carpet fibres and upholstery. Over time, they can dull colours and accelerate wear.

Pollen settles inside your home

Open windows help keep your home cool, but they also let pollen in.

Carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture act as filters, trapping airborne particles before they settle elsewhere.

The downside is that those allergens remain in the fibres until they are properly removed. Every time someone walks across the carpet or sits on the sofa, some of those particles can be released back into the air.

Professional cleaning helps reduce this build-up and creates a fresher indoor environment.

Increased use leads to faster wear

Summer often means children are home during the school holidays, family visits become more frequent, and evenings are spent relaxing together.

That extra use naturally increases wear on carpets and upholstery.

Hallways see more foot traffic. Sofas see more use. Dining chairs work harder during family meals and gatherings.

Regular maintenance helps protect these high-use areas before wear becomes permanent.

Summer is the ideal time for professional cleaning

One of the biggest advantages of booking a professional clean in summer is the drying time.

Warmer temperatures and improved airflow allow carpets and upholstery to dry much faster than they typically do in the colder months.

Opening windows also helps fresh air circulate, making the whole process more convenient.

It is the perfect opportunity to refresh your home while conditions are ideal.

Keep your home looking its best this summer

Summer brings plenty of enjoyment, but it also places extra demands on your carpets and upholstery.

A little preventative care, combined with regular professional cleaning, helps protect your furnishings from fading, trapped odours, allergens, and everyday wear and tear.

If your carpets or upholstery are looking a little tired after a busy start to summer, now is the perfect time to refresh them.

Find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean or book online today.

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Expert Summer Stain Removal Tips 

Summer can be hard on carpets and upholstery.

Ice cream on the carpet, chocolate on the sofa, tomato ketchup on fabric, and maybe even a red wine stain from the weekend.

It happens. Summer brings more activity at home, and with that comes more spills, marks, and stains.

Here are some practical summer stain removal tips to help you handle the most common mishaps.

Removing ice cream stains

Summer and ice cream tend to go hand in hand. Unfortunately, so do ice cream stains.

The sooner you deal with the spill, the better the chance of removing it completely.

From upholstery

  • Remove any excess ice cream using a spoon or blunt knife.
  • Mix one tablespoon of washing-up liquid with two cups of cool water.
  • Using a clean white cloth, sponge the stain with the solution.
  • Blot gently until the liquid is absorbed.
  • Repeat until the stain starts to disappear.
  • Sponge with clean cold water and blot dry.

Alternatively, you can use our consumer product, Spot Hero!

From carpets

  • Remove any excess ice cream carefully.
  • Mix one tablespoon of washing-up liquid with two cups of cool water.
  • Using a clean white cloth, apply the solution to the stain.
  • Blot from the outside of the stain towards the centre to avoid spreading it.
  • Continue until no more of the stain transfers onto the cloth.
  • Rinse with cold water and blot dry.

Alternatively, you can use our consumer product, Spot Hero!

For dried ice cream stains

If the stain has dried, gently loosen any residue before cleaning. You may need to repeat the process several times to fully remove the mark.

Top tip: Avoid using hot water on dairy-based stains. Heat can cause proteins in the ice cream to set into the fibres, making the stain more difficult to remove.

Removing chocolate stains

From upholstery

  • Scrape off any excess chocolate first.
  • Mix one tablespoon of washing-up liquid with two cups of cool water.
  • Using a clean white cloth, sponge the stain with the solution.
  • Blot until the liquid is absorbed.
  • Repeat until the stain disappears.
  • Sponge with cold water and blot dry.

Alternatively, you can use our consumer product, Spot Hero!

From carpets

  • Scrape off any excess chocolate.
  • Mix one tablespoon of washing-up liquid with two cups of warm water.
  • Using a clean white cloth, sponge the stain with the solution.
  • Blot until the liquid is absorbed.
  • Repeat until the stain disappears or no more chocolate transfers onto the cloth.
  • If the stain remains, mix one tablespoon of ammonia with two cups of warm water.

Alternatively, you can use our consumer product, Spot Hero!

Removing ketchup stains

From fabric

  • Work from the back of the stain and flush with cold water.
  • Pre-treat with a liquid laundry detergent. Gently tamp the stain and leave it to stand for several minutes.
  • Rinse well.
  • Sponge with white vinegar.
  • Rinse again.
  • Repeat these steps until you have removed as much of the stain as possible.
  • Pre-treat with a prewash stain remover, then launder.

If the stain remains, rub it with liquid laundry detergent and soak it in warm water for up to 30 minutes.

Alternatively, you can use our consumer product, Spot Hero!

From upholstery

  • Sponge the area with cool water.
  • Mix one tablespoon of liquid hand dishwashing detergent with two cups of cool water.
  • Using a clean white cloth, sponge the stain with the detergent solution.
  • Blot until the liquid is absorbed.
  • Repeat until the stain disappears.
  • Sponge with cold water and blot dry.

Alternatively, you can use our consumer product, Spot Hero!

From carpet

  • Sponge the area with cool water.
  • Mix one tablespoon of liquid hand dishwashing detergent with two cups of warm water.
  • Using a clean white cloth, sponge the stain with the detergent solution.
  • Blot until the liquid is absorbed.
  • Repeat until the stain disappears or no longer transfers onto the cloth.
  • If the stain remains, mix one tablespoon of ammonia with half a cup of warm water.

Alternatively, you can use our consumer product, Spot Hero!

Removing red wine stains

From fabric

  • Sponge the stain with cool water, or soak the item for around 30 minutes in a basin of cool water.
  • Pre-treat with a prewash stain remover.
  • Launder as normal. If it is safe for the fabric, add chlorine bleach to the wash.

From upholstery and carpet

  • Using a white cloth, blot as much of the red wine stain as possible. The more liquid you absorb at this stage, the easier the stain will be to treat.
  • Once you have finished blotting, pour a small amount of cold water directly onto the wine stain. This helps dilute what remains.
  • Continue blotting until no more of the stain lifts.
  • Next, make a baking soda paste using a 3:1 water-to-baking soda ratio.
  • Apply the paste to the affected area and leave it to dry.
  • Once dry, vacuum the area carefully.

Alternatively, you can use our consumer product, Spot Hero!

Why professional cleaning is better

Home stain removal can help when you act quickly. It can stop a mark from setting and reduce the damage before it gets worse. However, some stains need more than a cloth, a bowl of water, and patience.

Professional carpet and upholstery cleaning reaches deeper into the fibres. It removes residue that DIY cleaning can leave behind. This matters because leftover product can attract dirt and cause the area to become marked again.

ServiceMaster Clean can help with summer stain removal, marks, and refreshing carpets and upholstery, leaving your home feeling cleaner and fresher.

To learn more, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business, call 0800 021 3073, or book your cleaning online today.

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Why Summer Is the Best Time to Get Your Carpets and Upholstery Cleaned

Summer carpet and upholstery cleaning is important.

With the windows open and days getting longer, natural light fills every room, making winter’s overlooked details stand out.

The living room carpet appears a bit worn, and the sofa has been through numerous family movie nights. Meanwhile, the hallway rug has silently accumulated months of dirt, dust, and everyday traces.

This is why summer is the perfect time for carpet and upholstery cleaning.

Faster drying times

A major benefit of summer carpet and upholstery cleaning is the quicker drying process. The warmer weather and better airflow allow carpets and upholstery to dry significantly faster than during autumn or winter.

Open windows and longer daylight hours create perfect conditions for drying. Nobody wants to walk carefully around damp carpets for days, and in summer, most carpets and upholstery are ready to use sooner.

For busy households, that convenience alone makes booking a professional cleaning worth it.

Your home gets more use in summer

Summer typically brings more visitors, family gatherings, and frequent indoor-outdoor activity.

With children on holiday from mid-July and friends visiting for barbecues, garden doors remain open, and shoes are constantly coming and going.

This increased activity introduces more dirt into the home. Even if floors appear clean, carpets and upholstery can trap dust, pollen, crumbs, and other debris that accumulate over time.

A professional cleaning service effectively removes what standard vacuuming cannot.

Pollen does not stay outside

Many people think of gardens, parks, and countryside walks when they hear about pollen.

However, pollen also spends a lot of time indoors, arriving on clothing, shoes, pets, and through open windows.

Inside, carpets, rugs, and upholstery hold these tiny particles in their fibres. When someone walks on the carpet or sits on the sofa, some allergens can be released back into the air.

Regular professional cleaning helps remove trapped pollen and allergens, keeping your home feeling fresher during summer. 

Summer stains happen

Summer is brilliant for making memories. It is also excellent at creating stains.

Ice cream on the carpet. Tomato ketchup on the sofa. Barbecue sauces. Fruit juice. Red wine from a garden party.

Most homeowners have experienced at least one of these. The longer stains remain, the harder they are to remove. Professional cleaning helps tackle existing marks before they become permanent features of your home.

Natural light shows everything

Winter can be more forgiving than you might expect, but summer sunlight reveals issues you didn’t notice before.

Bright natural light emphasises flattened carpet fibres, dusty upholstery, and traffic marks. Many only realise their carpets and furniture need cleaning once the sun streams in through the windows again.

Professional cleaning revives colour, texture, and freshness, ensuring your home looks its best during the brightest months of the year.

Protect your carpets and furniture

Carpets and upholstery are valuable investments that endure daily wear and tear, often unnoticed.

Over time, dirt particles embed themselves in the fibres, with each footstep pushing them deeper. Upholstery faces similar degradation through regular use.

Professional cleaning eliminates this hidden buildup, extending the life of carpets and furniture and maintaining their appearance.

Replacing these items can be costly, so proper maintenance is generally a more economical choice.

Get ahead before autumn arrives

Soon, autumn arrives with wetter weather, muddy shoes, and more time indoors.

Having a professional cleaning in summer helps prepare your home for these changes by removing months of dirt, ensuring carpets and upholstery are better maintained for the upcoming seasons.

A cleaner home starts underfoot

Summer carpet and upholstery cleaning is about more than appearance.

It helps remove allergens, tackle stains, improve freshness, and protect some of the most used items in your home.

If you have been thinking about refreshing your carpets or furniture, summer is often the perfect time to do it.

Contact your nearest ServiceMaster Clean or book online today.

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Think Your Floors Are Clean? Look Closer

Luxury vinyl flooring is designed to look clean.

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) and Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) surfaces hide dust well, resist staining, and are easy to maintain day to day.

That is part of the appeal. However, that same quality makes it easy to miss what is building up.

Why LVT floors can look clean when they are not

Fine dust and residue settle evenly across the surface. There are no fibres to trap them, so they spread out instead.

At a glance, the floor looks clean. Underfoot, it tells a different story.

Over time, this build-up dulls the finish.

Grit is the real problem

Small particles from outside act like sandpaper.

Every step grinds them into the surface. This creates fine scratches that reduce the floor’s natural finish. It happens gradually, and most people notice only once the floor loses its original look.

Mopping can make it worse

Incorrect mopping spreads residue.

Too much water, or the wrong cleaning product, leaves a film behind. This attracts more dirt, can make the floor look dull or streaky, and, over time, layers build up.

Why proper cleaning matters

Cleaning luxury vinyl flooring requires the right balance.

The right products remove dirt without damaging the finish. Controlled moisture prevents long-term issues.

Professional cleaning removes built-up residue and restores the appearance without causing damage.

When to take a closer look

If your floors feel slightly sticky, look dull in natural light, or never quite look right after cleaning, there is usually a build-up.

LVT floors are designed to last. How they are cleaned matters.

Contact your nearest ServiceMaster Clean or book online today to ensure your floors are clean.

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Case study: A specialist pre-renovation clearance and clean

When a property becomes void, it isn’t always ready for tradespeople to simply walk in and start refurbishment work. At ServiceMaster Clean, we’re regularly called in by property landlords to make empty properties safe and clean after a tenant vacates, so they can be made ready for the next occupant.

Recently, a South West housing association sought assistance after a vacant property was left with significant health and safety hazards. Here’s how ServiceMaster Clean Devon responded.

The challenge

The site required a comprehensive specialist clearance. This included the removal of heavy, bulky items such as a sofa, mattress, fridge, freezer, and TV, alongside a critical needle sweep and the safe removal of hazardous materials. Before any construction or refurbishment trades could begin their work, the property required a rigorous “pre-build clearance and clean” to establish a safe and compliant working environment.

The solution

At ServiceMaster Clean Devon, our teams are fully equipped and trained to handle these high-risk environments. Because we understand the distinct stages of builder’s cleans, starting at the pre-build phase, we deployed a specialist team to tackle the hazardous site.

  • Hazardous clearance and sharps removal: Our operatives conducted a meticulous needle sweep and safely removed all hazardous materials, a task that goes well beyond the scope of a standard cleaning company.
  • Compliant waste disposal: With a valid waste carrier’s licence, we managed the compliant disposal of all waste at a regulated local site, including the specialised disposal of white goods, electronics, and bulky furniture.
  • Safety and compliance first: Our team utilised job-specific PPE and professional-grade materials. As with all our construction-related cleans, ensuring the site was legally compliant and safe for the next phase of workers was our top priority.

 

 

The results

Following the specialist clearance and deep clean, the property was transformed from a hazardous void into a clean, safe, and legally compliant blank canvas.

By managing the biohazards and heavy waste removal legally and safely, we protected the incoming tradespeople and allowed the housing association’s refurbishment project to commence without delay.

Why it matters

This project clearly highlights why appointing the right contractor is crucial. A standard domestic cleaner cannot safely handle sharps, biohazards, or large-scale waste disposal.

Whether you need an initial pre-build clean to make a site safe, an interim clean to keep a live site operational, or a final sparkle clean before handover, ServiceMaster Clean Devon has the expertise, licences, and equipment to get the job done right.

Get in touch

If you have a build, refurbishment, or void-property project coming up and would like to discuss what’s involved, we’d love to hear from you. Call ServiceMaster Clean Devon on 01803 200 278 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk to arrange a free on-site assessment.

 

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What to look for when appointing a builder’s clean contractor

A builder’s clean is one of the final and most important steps in any construction or refurbishment project. It’s your chance to make a great first impression, so it’s worth taking the time to appoint a contractor you can trust, who turns up properly equipped, works safely, and delivers a result that reflects well on everyone involved in the project.

Yet choosing a cleaning contractor for a construction site is something many developers, site managers, and project managers leave until the last minute, often defaulting to whoever is cheapest or most convenient. Here, the team at ServiceMaster Clean Devon highlights what you should be looking for.

CSCS cards

Any cleaning operative working on a live or recently completed construction site should hold a valid CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) card. This card confirms they have the health and safety knowledge required to work safely in a construction environment.

If a cleaning company can’t confirm that its staff hold CSCS cards, that’s an immediate red flag. Ask for confirmation before agreeing to anything.

PPE and equipment

A professional builder’s clean contractor will arrive with their own appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

Equally important is the quality of their cleaning equipment. A builder’s clean requires industrial-grade machinery capable of tackling post-plaster dust, hard-floor restoration, and window cleaning at height.

Full insurance cover

Accidents happen on construction sites, so any contractor you appoint must carry public liability insurance at an appropriate level and employer’s liability insurance for their own staff. Ask to see certificates.

They understand the different stages of a builder’s clean

Not all builder’s cleans are the same. A good contractor will be familiar with the distinction between:

  • Interim cleans — carried out between trades to keep the site safe and workable, removing debris and dust before the next phase begins.
  • Post-build cleans — a thorough clean once the majority of construction work is complete, tackling plaster dust, paint overspray, adhesive residue, protective film removal and more.
  • Sparkle cleans — the final detailed clean before handover, ensuring the property is presented at its very best.

Each stage requires a different approach and level of resources. If a contractor quotes for one without asking which you need, that’s a sign they may not fully understand the scope of the work.

Method statements, risk assessments and COSHH sheets

For any work on a recently completed construction site, you should expect a contractor to be able to provide method statements, risk assessments and COSHH data sheets for the chemicals they use.

These documents demonstrate that the contractor operates professionally, has thought through how the work will be carried out safely, and can be held accountable for their approach.

A free on-site assessment

A reputable contractor will want to see the job before providing a quote. Every construction project is different, with many factors affecting the scope and cost of the clean.

Be wary of contractors who quote over the phone without visiting the site. A cost given without a site visit is rarely accurate and can lead to problems at the invoice stage.

Experience and references

Check whether the contractor has experience with builder’s cleans, specifically as these are different to general commercial cleaning.

Ask for examples of similar projects they’ve completed, and even a reference from a developer or site manager they’ve worked with before.

ServiceMaster Clean Devon provides specialist builder’s clean services across South East Devon, Exeter and Torbay. Our teams hold valid CSCS cards, carry their own PPE, and are fully insured. We offer free on-site assessments and no-obligation quotations.

Call the ServiceMaster Clean Devon team on 01803 200 278 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk to arrange a site visit and receive a personalised quote.

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From construction site to showroom finish: our builder’s clean service

Once your building project is nearing completion, there’s one final, often underestimated, step that can make or break the impression your finished property makes. That all-important step is the builder’s clean.

At ServiceMaster Clean Devon, we provide specialist builder’s cleans for new builds, refurbishments and renovations. Here, the ServiceMaster Clean Devon team outline what that actually involves.

What is a builder’s clean?

A builder’s clean is a specialist deep clean, either to prepare the property for the next phase of works, or to bring it up to the standard required for handover, photography or occupation.

This specialist clean goes far beyond what a standard domestic cleaner or general cleaning company would handle. Construction sites are challenging. Plaster dust, dried grout, paint overspray, adhesive residue, protective film on windows and surfaces, silicone smears, tile haze, and general construction debris all require the right products, equipment, and experience to remove them effectively.

The four stages of a builder’s clean

Depending on where your project is up to, you may need one or more of the following:

Pre-build clean

Before the trades can go in, the property needs to be safe to work in. Where a previous tenant has vacated the property and left waste or biohazardous materials, a pre-build clean is an essential first step.

Our team are trained in biological and body spill cleans and sharps removal. We also hold a waste carrier’s licence, so we can remove and dispose of waste correctly and legally.

This essential stage right protects your tradespeople, keeps the site legally compliant, and allows work to start without delay.

Interim cleans

Carried out between trades, interim cleans keep the site safe and workable. We remove heavy dust and debris before the next phase begins, protecting on-site workers and the finishes already in place.

Post-build cleans

Once the majority of construction work is complete, a thorough post-build clean removes all construction residues, including plaster dust, paint splatter, tile adhesive, and protective window film.

Sparkle cleans

The final detailed clean before handover leaves every surface spotless and every fitting gleaming. This is the clean that ensures your finished property makes exactly the impression it should.

Our builder’s clean service

Our specialist builders’ clean team covers the full range of tasks required on a construction or refurbishment site, including:

  • General property cleans throughout
  • Carpet and hard floor cleaning and restoration
  • Kitchen and bathroom deep cleans
  • Pressure washing and cleaning of outside areas
  • Window and gutter cleaning

All work is carried out by our own in-house team, not subcontractors, using the latest industrial equipment and professional-grade cleaning chemicals to achieve the highest standards.

Why choose ServiceMaster Clean Devon for your builder’s clean?

CSCS-carded staff

Every member of our builder’s clean team holds a valid CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) card, confirming they have the health and safety knowledge required to work on a construction site.

Own PPE

Our team arrives fully equipped with their own personal protective equipment (PPE). You won’t be asked to supply anything.

Fully insured

We carry full public liability and employer’s liability insurance, giving you complete peace of mind.

Free on-site assessment and quotation

We visit the site before we quote to ensure we understand the full scope of the work and commit to a price. Our site assessments are free and come with no obligation.

Dedicated account manager

You’ll have a single point of contact throughout the job who understands your project, communicates clearly, and ensures everything runs to schedule.

Full documentation on request

We can provide method statements, risk assessments and COSHH data sheets for all chemicals used.

Fully trained and uniformed staff

Our team are professional, presentable and thorough. We take the same pride in how we represent ourselves on your site as we do in the quality of the clean we deliver.

Who we work with

Our builders’ cleaning service is used by developers, main contractors, site managers, architects, interior designers and property management agents across Devon. Whether you’re completing a single residential refurbishment or managing a larger commercial development, we have the resources and experience to deliver.

Get in touch

If you have a build or refurbishment project coming up and would like to discuss what’s involved, we’d love to hear from you. Call us on 01803 200 278 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk to arrange a site visit.