That worn strip across your carpeted hallway or living room tells a clear story about daily foot traffic. While replacing carpet might be the ultimate fix (or learning to fly), there are practical ways to reduce visible wear and extend your carpet’s life.
When we asked carpet care specialist Stefano Boni, Elite franchisee on the Sunshine Coast, for advice, his recommendations challenged some common assumptions.
Skip Rugs and Runners
It might seem logical to cover high-traffic areas with rugs or runners—but Stefano advises against it.
“Rugs and runners often give people a false sense of protection,” he says. “They can actually become a tripping hazard, especially for older people.”
Falls are a serious issue in Australia, with around one in three people over 65 experiencing a fall each year, many resulting in hospitalisation. On top of that, dyes from rugs or runners can transfer into the carpet underneath, leaving behind permanent discolouration.
Stop Dirt at the Door
One of the simplest and most effective solutions is placing a quality doormat at all external entrances. Mats help trap dirt and grit before it ever reaches your carpet—provided everyone remembers to wipe their feet properly.
Better still, adopt a shoes-off policy indoors. Shoes track in abrasive particles that slowly grind away at carpet fibres.
And a word of warning: black-soled shoes are particularly damaging. The rubber can scuff off onto carpet, leaving stubborn dark marks that are difficult to remove—even with professional treatment.
Socks Are Better Than Bare Feet
Going barefoot indoors might feel natural, but it’s not ideal for carpets.
Our skin naturally produces oils, which transfer onto carpet fibres and attract dirt over time. Stefano suggests following the Japanese custom—wear socks indoors. It’s not about warmth; it’s about reducing oil build-up and preserving carpet appearance.
Vacuum Regularly (and Properly)
Vacuuming remains one of the most important steps in carpet care.
Aim for at least once a week, with extra attention to high-traffic areas like hallways. Busy households may benefit from an additional quick vacuum mid-week.
Regular vacuuming prevents dirt from working deeper into the pile, where it causes long-term fibre damage. Pairing this with periodic professional carpet cleaning makes a noticeable difference in both appearance and longevity.
Professional Cleaning Makes the Difference
Even with excellent home care, deeply embedded dirt can only be removed with professional equipment. An annual clean helps lift compacted soil, refresh fibres, and slow the development of visible wear paths.
Elite technicians use proven methods aligned with industry standards to extend carpet life and maintain a healthier indoor environment. You can learn more about Elite’s experience and national capability on our About Elite page.
For homes with soft furnishings in traffic zones, upholstery cleaning can also help maintain a consistent, well-cared-for look.
Ready to Give Your Carpets a Fresh Start?
If traffic lanes are starting to show and your carpet is looking tired, professional cleaning can help restore its appearance and protect your investment.
- Arrange a professional carpet clean at a time that suits your household
- Enjoy cleaner, fresher carpets with longer wear life
- Get expert care from a trusted Australian provider
Start your booking online at https://elite.com.au/quotes/ or call 131580 via https://elite.com.au/call-now/ to get your carpets back on the right path.
Elite Maintenance Services Group — helping Australian homes look better for longer.
