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| By : Supriya Sahu | Previous | Next |
| Posted on : 27 Dec, 2005 | Total Views : 333 |
Carpet Care - Methods of Cleaning
Daily vacuuming is the most important cleaning activity, but deep extraction cleaning must be performed to remove stubborn or embedded soil. Always use a cleaning method recommended by the carpet manufacturer to maintain their warranty.
Carpet should receive regular deep cleaning to maintain good looks. A carpet cleaning professional may be hired or carpet-cleaning equipment purchased or rented for do-it-yourself cleaning. The fibre system used should be the primary factor in selecting a cleaning method. The majority of carpets manufactured today are constructed with synthetic fibre such as nylon; polyester, or olefin, Natural fibres may require specialized care.
The following are general guidelines on the fibre systems you will come across:
Wool fibre may be cleaned using all cleaning methods, although excessive agitation and excessive heat should be avoided
Cotton and rayon are cellulosic fibre and may be cleaned using all cleaning methods.
Silk should be cleaned using a dry cleaning process.
Plant fibre used in carpet construction, including sisal, cotton, jute, coconut (coir), pineapple, ramie, and hemp, have characteristics similar to cotton. These fibres may be cleaned with all cleaning methods, but dry extraction and dry foam extraction are most often recommended.
There are five accepted methods for cleaning carpet made from synthetic fibres:
Absorbent Pad (Bonnet) Method
Only a properly trained cleaning professional should use the absorbent pad method.
Dry Extraction (Polymer Compound) Method. An absorbent compound saturated with detergents and solvents is brushed in and around the fibres with especially designed machines or brushes.
Dry Foam Extraction Method. In dry foam cleaning a detergent solution is whipped into foam and applied to the carpet. Hot Water Extraction Method This method is sometimes called "steam cleaning."
Rotary Shampoo.The rotary shampoo method uses equipment similar to the rotary bonnet method, except that a cleaning solution is injected onto the carpet before cleaning or through specially designed brushes.
Do-it-yourself cleaning may be an economical choice between professional cleanings. For any do-it-yourself cleaning method, the following points are critical. Always pre-vacuum to remove as much dry soil as possible. Follow the manufacturers instructions carefully!
Consider the following precautions when selecting a wet cleaning method.
Remove furniture from the room before cleaning. Use only the recommended cleaning solution strength.
Do not over wet the carpet. The carpet should be dry within 12 hours. Allow the carpet to dry completely before walking on it.
Professional Cleaning Services
Consider the services of a carpet cleaning professional before your carpet and rugs begin to show soil. Allowing carpets and rugs to become excessively soiled will make cleaning more difficult and will shorten their useful life.
In order to determine the amount and type of cleaning services needed, have a representative of the cleaning firm come to your home to make a visual inspection. Obtain a written agreement for all work to be performed. Under normal circumstances there should be no extra charge for activities such as moving furniture, preconditioning, and routine spot and stain removal. Beware of pricing that is "too good to be true." Professionals will charge only for services that are authorized in writing before cleaning begins.
Written By : Supriya Sahu
