Besides general cleaning, having their carpets professionally cleaned is one of the services your customers will probably ask for most often. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) states that the overall objective of carpet cleaning is to remove soil. This helps extend the life of the carpet and, of course, makes the whole building look cleaner. There are four primary cleaning methods: absorbent compound method; bonnet cleaning method; hot water extraction method; and dry foam cleaning method. The particular carpet cleaning method you select will be determined on the type of carpet, the carpet's use, and the condition of the carpet.
Absorbent Compound Method:
This method is sometimes called the "dry cleaning method" as almost no water is used. After vacuuming thoroughly, distribute a dry absorbent compound (which contains small amounts of water, detergent and solvent) uniformly over the carpet and work it into the carpet with a machine. The cleaner attracts and absorbs the soil. Then use the machine to agitate the compound through the carpet.
When the carpet is dry, vacuum thoroughly to ensure you remove the compound from the carpet. You should use a vacuum with a high efficiency filtering system. This cleaning method has a fast drying time -- only 30 to 60 minutes.
Bonnet Cleaning Method:
After vacuuming thoroughly, apply a detergent solution to the carpet and bonnet. Then remove the solution by using a bonnet or absorbent pad, which is attached to a pad drive on a slow speed (175 rpm) rotary floor machine.
As the machine agitates, the soil is loosened and absorbed by the bonnet. Pay attention to the condition of the bonnet as large soil accumulations will hinder the cleaning process. After bonneting, you must apply a neutralizer on the carpet using a pump-up sprayer. This method has a fast drying time ? 30 to 45 minutes.
Hot Water Extraction Method:
After thoroughly vacuuming the carpet, apply a detergent solution to the carpet using a pump-up sprayer and give dwell time. Remove the solution by rinsing with hot water, using a portable or a truck-mounted extraction unit. Mist on a neutralizer after extracting.
Several extraction passes may be needed to completely rinse the suspended soil and detergent. The drying time for this method is 1 to 3 hours. To quicken the drying process, you can follow up with a dry bonnet and fans.
Dry Foam Cleaning Method:
This is also a minimum moisture type method. After vacuuming thoroughly, apply a dense foam to the carpet with a mechanical brush. The agitation of the chemical is done during the application process.
After a suitable dwell time, use a carpet extractor to remove the excess foam and the suspended soils. Once the carpet is thoroughly dry, you may need to vacuum to extract any remaining detergent residue. The expected drying time is one to three hours; however, it can be longer for any heavily soiled areas.
Remember, these are specific carpet cleaning methods and do not include the "start to finish" procedures that are necessary for successful cleaning. Routine vacuuming, pre-conditioning and other procedures are essential parts of the cleaning process. The particular carpet cleaning method that works for one building may not be suitable for another. Carpets should be cleaned before a soiled traffic lane appears. A carpet that is extremely soiled may result in irreversible damage. Do your homework as the carpets in different buildings may need different types of care. A well cared for carpet not only keeps your customers buildings looking good, but also keeps your cash flowing!
Copyright 2006 The Janitorial Store
Routine vacuuming with just a standard upright vacuum cleaner is a great way to keep your carpets clean on a weekly basis. It will not only keep the dust level in your house to a minimum, but will also keep your carpeting in great shape. The main disadvantge to using a vacuum cleaner is that it does not penetrate all the way down to the bottom of your carpet fibers. Many times a vacuum cleaner will only thoroughly clean the top half of your carpet fibers, this is especially true if your existing machine is a few years old, and the suction level isn't the same as when you first bought it. So in order to achieve the deep cleaning that your carpets really need, you might have to look at using professional carpet cleaning equipment.
Professional carpet cleaning equipment consists of a number of machines and accessories, which are specially designed to target your specific needs. For example, if you are looking to remove stains then the spot removal machine should be employed. There are also steam cleaning machines, and shampoo machines. So whatever job you're looking to get done, whether it be stain removal or deep carpet cleaning and shampooing, there is a specific machine designed for the job.
Now you've decided you want to use a professional piece of cleaning equipment on your carpeting, but you just don't know where you can gain access to that equipment. First things first, I wouldn't consider buying, although you may be able to find professional cleaning equipment for sale at just about any major appliance store, it would not be cost effective. You would be much better off if you rented the equipment and performed the job yourself, or even if you hired a professional carpet cleaning company to do the job for you. Professional cleaning companies can clean large houses and offices quickly and efficiently; all you need to do is make an appointment in advance, as they are very busy almost round the year.
I wouldn't choose to invest in the professional machines that clean carpets thoroughly but, it is wise to invest in professional cleaning detergents and sprays, which can help you keep your carpet clean in between general cleaning periods. There are a vast array of capret cleaners out there to choose from depending on your needs and preferences. The cleaner that recommend to all is the dry cleaning foam, which can be applied to the carpet directly. Once the chemical is applied, all you have to do is wait for about half an hour, and then come back and vacuum up all the dirt that has been brought to the surface.
Cleaning should be considered an every day, if not every week activity. Carpet cleaning should be taken even more seriously as a lot of dirt and unseen bacteria enjoy living deep in your carpet fibers. This can be especially harmful to people who suffer from serious allergy problems. You want to maintain a cleanliness in your home, so you can enjoy a healthier lifestyle. The best way to maintain that lifestyle would be to use your vacuum cleaner at least once a week on your carpets. Then use your favorite professional cleaning product on your carpet in between the times you have your carpet professionally cleaned. Then the last step would be having your carpet professionally cleaned by either a carpet cleaning service or you performing the job yourself with a piece of professional carpet cleaning equipment, at least two times a year. This practice will not only keep your carpet in excellent shape, it will provide you and your family a healthier living environment.
Both Steve Hanson & Andrew Wanschura are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Steve Hanson has sinced written about articles on various topics from Cleaning Business, Business Plan and Home Appliances. Steve Hanson is co-founder of TheJanitorialStore.com, an online community for owners of cleaning companies. Sign up for Trash Talk:Tip of the Week at