Fall is officially here, and winter will follow shortly. With the changing levels of humidity and moisture, outdoor elements, such as dirt, and allergens. These elements can easily wreak havoc on your flooring if you’re not careful.

Here are just five simple ways homeowners can keep their carpets and floors in top shape this fall and beyond.

Use Blinds and Shades to Protect Floors from Direct Sunlight

When the sun’s out, harsh UV rays can cause premature fading and discoloration to floors, especially hardwood flooring. But whether you have hardwood, vinyl, laminate flooring, or tile, closing your blinds or shades will help prevent your flooring from fading (not to mention keep your home cooler). If it’s necessary to keep curtains open, just remember to close them before you head out to save your flooring from unnecessary sun damage.

Use Door Mats at All Outside Entrances

One of the simplest ways to prevent dirty floors in the fall is to have a high-quality door mat outside all outdoor entrances. Have all family members and guests wipe off their shoes before coming inside—or better yet, leave muddy shoes and clothes outside on the porch, patio, or right inside the entrance. Taking just a few seconds to scrape off the bottom of your shoes can keep allergens from getting inside and prevent abrasive particles from scratching up floors.

Use a Dehumidifier as Needed

Seasonal changes often bring more than just sunshine—humid weather can also make itself welcome in your home during the transitional months between summer and fall. High humidity levels can affect the color and shine of your flooring, and at worst, can even cause warping or cracks in your floors. Using a dehumidifier when humidity levels are high can help draw moisture out of the air to keep your floors looking shiny and new. 

Vacuum Instead of Sweeping

No matter what you do, dust, allergens, and dirt are sure to make their way into your home at some point this time of year. Prioritize vacuuming over sweeping—even on hard surfaces—to pick up as much grit as possible. Sweeping can spread dust and dirt around instead of eliminating it, especially tiny particles that aren’t easily visible. If you’re going to mop or sweep, make sure you vacuum first to prevent moving those itty-bitty particles and abrasives along the floor’s surface, which can scratch or damage floors.

Consider Waterproof Flooring Options

Even after beach season is over, water has a sneaky way of making its way into your home. Since water can cause damage and ruin your beautiful floors, you’ll want to be extra careful here. Make sure you have towels inside and outside doorways to prevent excess water from getting in your home, and consider using water-resistant or waterproof flooring to help protect your floors from moisture, water, and spills.

Come visit Distinctive Carpet and tile and choose from several products that are waterproof and water resistant.