Winter can be filled with a host of enjoyable outdoor activities, but the big problem comes when all that fun comes inside on your carpets. Keeping floors clean and free of stains can be a challenge during the winter months, with all sorts of new debris being tracked in. Here are a few rules to follow so you can have clean carpets and enjoy your floors throughout the winter months.

Remove shoes at the door

This rule might seem annoying to some, but this simple act keeps your floors and carpets cleaner than anything else you do. No matter the type of shoe, wearing it on the carpet tracks in mud, moisture, leaves and even salt from the roads or sidewalks.

There are ways to make shoe removal easier for yourself and any guests you may entertain. Try using a rolling rack that can be moved where needed to house shoes, or even building a floating shoe shelf, like these DIY solutions from Bob Vila.

Use mats and rugs

Whether it's a throw rug or mat, be sure to invest in a few of them for your home's entrances and exits. By placing a rug or mat in front of each entrance (indoor and out), the mats should absorb most of the mess off of any shoes that venture inside. This is an easy (and stylish) way to cut down on debris tracked in.

Vacuum frequently

Vacuuming is another vital piece of the carpet-saving puzzle. Although it may be tempting, do not vacuum over wet footprints, as this could cause even more of a mess. As long as the carpets are dry, you should try to vacuum at least once each week, preferably twice a week if you have children or pets.

Martha Stewart suggests eight passes for high-traffic areas, with four passes for the rest of the carpet. You can ensure vacuum efficiency by emptying the dust collector when it’s half full and cleaning the brushes on the bottom from time to time. Regular vacuuming removes the dirt particles before they become permanently embedded into the carpet pile.

Blot spills promptly

Unlike other stains or spills, when mud gets on your carpet, it’s best to let the soil dry before cleaning. Muddy footprints are maddening, but by letting it dry before you begin the cleanup process and you will prevent an even bigger mess.

After the mud dries completely, vacuum up the dried particles and spot clean with a mix of vinegar and water, notes Apartment Therapy.

Keep a clean outside

It might seem impossible, but a clean outside helps keep a clean inside. Patios and porches unfortunately collect a high amount of debris during the winter months. Keep them swept and shoveled during the snowy season. This will help prevent tracking in anything extra while allowing a place to dry off and clean up a bit before going inside.

Deep clean and replace

Rug Doctor suggests deep cleaning your carpets every six months, especially if you have children or pets. Even the most vigilant vacuuming and spot cleaning can't do what a deep clean does. To ensure that your carpets remain fresh and looking like new, schedule a cleaning during mid-winter and mid-summer; it could be every July and January, or every June and December.

If your carpet has taken a beating in winters past, it might be time to start fresh. Check out all of the newest and trendiest flooring options at a Giant Carpet One near you.

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