Between muddy shoes, crushed candy, and the glitter that somehow ends up everywhere, post-Halloween clean-up can feel like a horror story of its own.
Luckily, contractors, who deal with messy floors for a living, assure that there's one clever trick to stop the mess before it even starts, saving rugs and carpets from Halloween stains: Clear Plastic Adhesive Carpet Shields, available at Walmart.
It's quick, surprisingly affordable, and protects your floors from chaos without the need to clean floors for hours on November 1st.
How Carpet Shields can Protect your Floors from Halloween Chaos
Sticky back carpet protectors are a lifesaver for saving time on cleanup. Professional cleaner Scott Schrader, of CottageCare, says, 'This is a low-cost, easy way to have a holiday gathering without dread of scrubbing stains out the day after. Another positive is that once you remove the plastic, you can quickly vacuum and nothing ever happens to your carpet with no evidence of the pile of guests.'
When picking out your Halloween decor ideas, floor care is probably the last thing on your mind.
However, putting down some protective measures, such as adhesive carpet protectors, as you start to decorate or host spooky get-togethers and parties, can save you hours of deep cleaning your home later.
Isabella Flores, cleaning expert and professional organizer at Sparky Maid San Diego, explains, 'A stick-on plastic film is a practical, inexpensive way to protect your carpet from muddy shoe prints, food spills, or extra foot traffic during Halloween-themed parties and gatherings.
'It will provide a durable barrier over the carpet, protecting the fibers from staining and soil without needing to disrupt parties and events. This is especially great for families needing to quickly manage kids going in and out.'
The trick is to apply the film correctly, Isabella says.
She recommends cleaning with your best vacuum cleaner first to remove debris. Then, unroll the plastic slowly, pressing down gently to smooth out air bubbles, working from the middle to the edges of the film.
'Do not overlap layers of the film, as this could make removal more difficult and create a trip hazard,' she adds.
'Finally, do not leave stick-on film in place longer than 30 days to eliminate the potential for adhesive residue transfer or discoloration of the carpet.'
When removing, Isabella suggests starting at the corner and pulling slowly.
What to Shop
Easy to apply and remove, this clear carpet protector can keep your flooring safe from dirt and debris over the festive period.
This handy carpet and upholstery cleaning solution comes with a built-in applicator, ideal for quickly treating nay spills or stains over the festive period.
Distilled white vinegar is a fantastic non-toxic cleaning tool for any home. When used correctly, it can help to kill mold and bacteria, as well as tackle odors and lighten stains, all without harsh chemicals.
Baking soda is a natural abrasive that also acts as a deodorizer, especially for carpets and upholstery. Simply sprinkle, leave to sit for a few hours, and then vacuum away.
Microfiber cloths are machine washable, meaning you can reuse them for years with proper care. Simply wash after use on a warm water cycle and gentle detergent (skip the softener) to sanitize.
This handy dustpan and brush can slot neatly alongside appliances or cabinets for quick cleaning when you don't want to drag the vacuum out of storage.
FAQs
What is the Best Homemade Carpet Stain Remover?
If you do accidentally get something on your carpets over Halloween, follow the golden rules of stain removal and treat the spill ASAP. We suggest using a DIY cleaning solution, mixing two cups of warm water with a tablespoon of white vinegar (from Walmart), and a few drops of dish soap, such as Dawn, from Walmart.
Saturate the stain and use a dry microfiber cloth to dab and lift the spill. Avoid rubbing as it can push it deeper into the carpet fibers.
Meet the Experts
When Halloween is over, work through a quick fall cleaning checklist to help clear away the remnants before preparing your home for Thanksgiving.
