How to remove pine needles from carpets

Carpet experts warn against using a vacuum cleaner to try to remove fallen pine needles from carpets. Households with natural Christmas trees will be familiar with this task.

Pine needles are sharp and could damage the internal parts of the cleaner. Pine needles contain sap, a type of moisture that can clog up airways and the vacuum motor. There are safer ways to remove the needles.

Purchase a carpet scraper to loosen needles that are wedged in the carpet fibres. Using short, firm strokes, gather the needles in a pile and brush them into a dustpan.

For delicate carpets and rugs that could be damaged by a carpet scraper, use packing tape or a lint roller. Press down on sections of the carpet to gently lift the needles.

For shag and deep pile carpets, use a hair dryer set to cold or cool air. Blow across the carpet whilst combing with your fingers to bring the needles to the surface, ready for removal.

It also helps to minimise how many pine needles drop. Keep the tree away from radiators. If the tree is planted in soil, water it to prevent it from drying out. Spray with hairspray to stop needles from dropping.

If your carpets are worn, after Christmas is a good time to replace them. Ask to see the latest range of quality carpets at a carpet retailer in Chester. A good carpet will last for many Christmases to come.