“Eighty-seven percent of the dirt in our homes is basic tracked-in soil and dust,” says Doug Bradford, president of Textile Cleaners of America, “and it can almost always be removed dry, so you can absolutely put off the need for professional cleaning by regularly vacuuming before the dirt sets in.” And he’s not just talking carpeting and rugs. Get in the habit of running the brush attachment (on a low-suction setting, please) over window and lamp shades, throw pillows, and upholstery at least once a month.