Carpet Cleaning Checklist

Reference guide for carpet cleaning

Carpet Cleaning Guidelines for Indoor Air Quality

• Open door and windows, if possible, for an adequate supply of fresh air. Consider using window fans, air movers, exhaust fans, the building ventilation system or other means to exhaust chemical emissions to the outdoors during carpet cleaning.
• Select a vacuum cleaner that minimizes airborne particulate matter during operation
• Ensure that the carpet is returned to a dry state within 12 hours following completion of cleaning.
• Select low emitting cleaning solutions that are safe for cleaning technicians and home or facility occupants
• If any occupants consider themselves to be unusually sensitive, they may wish to avoid the area or leave the premises while the carpet is being cleaned and returned to a dry state.

Checklist for Homeowners

Restricting soil entry - The majority of the soil in any facility is tracked in on the soles of shoes. Much of this soil accumulates within the first few feet of building entry points before spreading throughout the building. Taking steps to prevent soil from entering a building is the most effective way of limiting soil. Entry mats should be used to collect and absorb tracked in soil. These mats must be maintained regularly to limit saturation with soil.

Regular vacuuming - As soil collects in the carpet pile, the most effective removal technique is routine vacuuming. This embedded soil can scar pile fibers, cause discoloration, and contribute to appearance deterioration. For maximum effectiveness, use an approved vacuum cleaner that has adjustable and rotating brushes that are able to loosen embedded soil, and a strong enough airflow to penetrate to the backing, extracting all particles. The vacuum should provide adequate filtration to limit recirculation of soil particles.

Spot removal (carpet stain removal)

Most spots can be easily removed if proper spot removal (carpet stain removal) procedures are performed. For effective removal, spot removal (carpet stain removal) must be attempted immediately before a spill begins to bond with the pile fibers. Home and business owners should use prescribed removal guidelines and assume responsibility for immediate removal attempts. Problem stains may require immediate consultation with a cleaning professional.

Cleaning Frequency

Ultimately, cleaning frequency is dependent upon local traffic and soiling conditions. In most consumer-owned residences cleaning should be performed a minimum of every twelve to eighteen months. The homeowner or a carpet cleaner may perform carpet cleaning.

Carpet cleaning in homes is highly dependent upon traffic and soiling conditions. Most homes should be cleaned a minimum of once per year. However, carpet installed in heavy-use areas may require more frequent cleaning. Carpet cleaning may be performed by the homeowner or by a carpet-cleaning professional.

Topical treatments

The use of after market, topical treatments without the expressed approval of the carpet manufacturer prior to the application may void applicable warranties. Topical treatments include soil retardants, stain repellents, anti-static treatments, antimicrobials, deodorizers, and defoamers. Regular carpet cleaning may destroy these treatments and reapplication may be necessary as a result of damage by foot traffic. Consult the carpet manufacturer for the recommended frequency for the application of these treatments.

Did you know?

In hiring a carpet cleaner, make sure the carpet cleaning method is approved by the carpet manufacturer. The carpet cleaner should perform stain removal (spot removal), vacuuming, carpet pile raking, and preconditioning as a normal part of the carpet cleaning price quote.

Did you know?

In hiring a carpet cleaner, make sure the carpet cleaning method is approved by the carpet manufacturer. The carpet cleaner should perform stain removal (spot removal), vacuuming, carpet pile raking, and preconditioning as a normal part of the carpet cleaning price quote.

About the Author
Michael Hilton was the original creator of Carpet Buyers Handbook. Having owned and operated a carpet wholesale company, Hilton has a vast knowledge about all-things carpet related as well as other types of flooring.