These tips can help you keep your carpet looking new:

• Keep the soil off your carpet. Use entryway mats and sweep the outside sidewalk leading to the door.

• Vacuum regularly. No step is more important to preserving the appearance of your carpet. Vacuum heavy-traffic areas twice weekly; other areas, once a week.

• Remove spots before they become stains. Most liquid spills can be removed completely with absorbent cloths and a little water. All liquids should be blotted with downward pressure and never ever rubbed.