GENERAL CARPET CARE BASICS vacuum thoroughly and often as this will remove soil build-up which can attract additional soil remove stains ASAP; the longer a stain chemically reacts with the carpet, the harder it is to remove never dig at spots; push into the middle and tamp the spot into a towel or cloth do not over-use detergents do not over-wet carpet as this can cause shrinkage and adhesion problems remove cleaner residue where possible test carpet before shampooing, spotting or hot water extraction never put protector on a dirty or spotty carpet, as this can seal in soil and make it more difficult to remove the next timeA proper carpet care maintenance program consists of four components:1) removal of soil upon entering building2) removal of dry soil3) eliminating spots/stains4) steam cleaning or hot water extractionRemoval Of Entrance SoilThe use of mats at entrances, doorways and between hard flooring and carpeting can prevent soil from being tracked onto your carpets. Choose between mats that protect from water and those which trap soil in their fibers.Removal Of Dry Dirt Particles
Vacuuming is the single most important function of dry soil removal. Your vacuum should have dual motors, particularly when servicing a commercial operation, as they are more effective and will last longer. Replace the vacuum bags often and use those with a high filtration capability. A cheaper vacuum is not a wise investment in the long run and can compromise carpet care and life. The choice between an upright or cannister vacuum should be based on the size of your operation and type of area to be maintained.Spot Removal/Stain Prevention it is important to remove spills or spots ASAP always blot a stain or spill, never scrub at it work from the outside in to avoid spreading the stain after adding a cleaner or spot remover, rinse with water to remove the residue left from the spotter draw out excess moisture with layers of white or light colored cloths, weighing them down on the carpet. Test the light cloths for color transfer. water soluble stains - first absorb stain with white/light cloths and use a general purpose cleaner with a pH level of less than 10; for printed carpets ensure the pH level is less than 8 coffee/tea stains - use one part water to one part white vinegar blood/protein stains - use one tbsp. of ammonia to one cup of water or use an alkaline spotter grease - blot up and apply a volatile solvent, use protective gloves, provide ventilation and do NOT use flammable solvents wax removal - first place a brown bag or wax paper on top of the wax to protect the carpet, then lift with a steam iron gum removal - lift off carpet using ice cubes red wine stains - blot with club soda rust removal - Rust can be removed with a 10% solution of oxalic acid but should only be used by a trained professional ink stains - apply rubbing alcohol to a cotton swab and blot prevention of stains - use barrier mats at entranceways, limit food to designated hard-floor areas, ensure lids are provided for food/drink containers to avoid spills and equip garbage cans with plastic bags or liners flattened carpet - place a protective wax paper or brown bag on carpet and raise pile with a steam iron to clean the fringe on rugs, brush with a counter brush using a down and away stroke for a brighter carpet sprinkle salt on the area and let stand for one hour before vacuumingDeep Cleaning/ExtractionWhen the color of a carpet starts to look dull it is time for a deep cleaning. Hot water extraction, or "steam cleaning" as it is gernerally referred to, is the most efficient method. The process is simply the application of hot water and a cleaning solution on the carpet and extraction of the excess and soil with a vacuum, into a holding tank. Hot water extraction can be done by a professional with a truck-mounted unit or by in-house maintenance using a self-contained push machine. Check manufacturers instructions for the amount of cleaning solution to apply.Does your distributor provide you with all your carpet care needs? |