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Carpets cleaned regularly can be treated with mild products while those cleaned less often will require stronger or larger amounts of chemicals. There is a misconception that using excess amounts of chemicals will be more efficient in the cleaning of the carpet. However, this is not the case and may result in damage to the carpet.
When a carpet is cleaned infrequently, soil and stains will settle and removing them will prove to be difficult necessitating the use of stronger chemicals. Choosing the right product will depend on the type of cleaning required and the safety of the product. The cleaning chemicals found in carpet shampoos are considered mild and are useful for removing soil. These should be used in daily routine cleaning.
It is important to treat spills and stains promptly so that they do not settle into the carpet and later require deeper cleaning. If handled immediately, most stains can be removed by blotting the stain with a paper towel or soft cloth, sponging the area with a detergent and rinsing with water. The stained area should then be dried by covering with paper towels or clean soft cloth and allowed to dry. Never rub or wipe the stain so that it does not spread over a larger area or become embedded into the carpet fibers. Spot and stain removal products contain stronger chemicals and should be used sparingly. These should be applied only if the stain cannot be removed with a mild product. Pre-sprays used with hot water extraction systems are also considered mild.
In addition, there are products available on the market that protect and seal the carpet with a soil repellant finish. This finish prevents permanent staining and facilitates the maintenance of the carpet for a longer period of time. Stains and spills are not absorbed into the carpet and the anti-staining agents such as scotchguard or similar chemical finishes provide a protective barrier to the carpet. Deodorizing products can also be found which contain chemicals that either neutralize or remove odors from pets and other sources and leave a pleasant fragrance after use.
Before applying any carpet cleaning product it is important to carefully read the instructions and ensure the room is properly ventilated and the correct gear is used. Protective gloves and goggles are advisable. Some products contain highly toxic chemicals such as isopropanol and butoxyethanol that may be harmful when inhaled or when they come in contact with the skin. These hazardous ingredients as well as acid rinses may also be contained in hot water extractions and should be avoided. In no case should different chemicals be mixed.
Maintaining clean carpets and enhancing the life of the carpet can be easily achieved when a cleaning routine is incorporated. Regular daily cleaning should be done with mild products while deep weekly cleanings are to be carried out with stronger products. Toxic or environmentally harmful chemicals should be avoided. In cases where the carpet is extremely stained or soiled, hot water extraction or professional service may be required.