How does Mohawk?s SmartStrand carpet stand up to a full-sized rhino? Extremely well?even a rhinoceros can?t combat its stain-fighting powers!

As you can see in this clip, Ricko the rhino loves his SmartStrand carpet. Even after many days spent walking and rolling around on it, the carpet still does not show wear and tear. SmartStrand proves that it is extremely durable, even against a worthy adversary like Ricko.

Spring is right around the corner, so you may be planning an upcoming spring cleaning weekend. If so, consider how new carpet could freshen up your home and give it the cosmetic facelift it needs. Below, you?ll find information on how to determine whether new flooring is just what your home needs to look clean and rejuvenated:

• Are Your Carpets Looking Dingy?A number of factors can alter the way your carpet looks and smells over time. Cigarette smoke, pet hair and dander, food stains, dirt, and dust can all cause your carpet to lose its luster and brilliance. Eventually, even with routine vacuuming, a ?no shoes on the carpet? rule, and years of professional cleaning, you?ll need to have your carpet replaced. If your carpet has a yellow or brown tint to it, you?re probably better off replacing it rather than continuing to hire professional cleaners.
• Does Your Home Look Outdated?Certain carpet styles can make older homes look even older. A chic and modern way to give your home a facelift is to install wood or laminate flooring. Wood or faux wood flooring can give your home a sophisticated and classic look. Laminate is less expensive than real wood, so many homeowners opt for this choice when upgrading their floors.
• Are Carpet Stains Bringing Your House Down?Some carpet becomes dingy while other types become spotted. If stains are an issue in your home, your old carpet could be affecting its value. New carpet or laminate flooring can quickly and affordable give your home the cosmetic facelift it needs.

It?s almost impossible to prevent spills on your carpet, but with the proper knowledge, you can keep them from becoming permanent. Watch this video to learn about the best way to remove red wine stains.

Acting as quickly as possible, blot the stain, starting at the outer edges and working your way in. Salt helps to keep the stain from setting, so you should use it if you do not have other cleaning products available. Mix clear dishwashing liquid, white vinegar, and warm water together in a bowl and blot it onto the stain. Alternate blotting with the wet rag and a dry one. When the stain is gone, blot the area with cold water and then dry it.

Maintaining a clean and soft carpet can be a difficult task for a homeowner?pets, children, and guests may all leave dirt and debris on the surface of your floors. A good way to keep your carpets looking like new is by regularly vacuuming them. Watch this video for tips on the proper technique to use.

Regularly vacuuming your floors keeps dust out of your home and maintains the fresh look and feel of your carpeting. Before vacuuming, clean the carpeted area of larger debris such as toys, paper, and coins. Make sure that your vacuum is in proper working order, with an empty dust bag. While cleaning, remember to overlap your strokes and switch up your direction every now and then.