"Protect your carpet color
In addition to frequent vacuuming, its important to clean your carpet on a regular basis. Cleaning systems will remove the oily, sticky soil that vacuums can't take out, and will help keep your carpet looking great over time.
Cleaning systems target the soils that result from cooking vapors, air pollution, and tracked-in dirt. The particles of oily soil deposited on carpet fibers can cause gradual but significant dulling of colors. The color isn't lost, but is hidden under the film. If this type of soil is allowed to accumulate, it begins to attract and hold the dry soil.
Get on a cleaning schedule
If carpet is cleaned before it becomes too unsightly, the cleaning chore will be easier and more successful. Carpet in a typical household should be cleaned every 12 to 18 months, depending on the number of residents and amount of activity.
Choosing the proper cleaning system is important. Some systems may leave residues which accelerate re-soiling and defeats the whole purpose of cleaning.
Shaws choice: Hot water extraction
Research indicates that the hot water extraction system provides the best capability for cleaning. This system is commonly referred to as "steam cleaning," although no steam is actually generated. The process consists of applying a cleaning agent into the carpet pile and using water in the extractor to recover the used solution and soil. This can be done from a truck-mounted unit outside the home with only the hose and wand brought inside or by a portable system brought into the home.
Shaw warranties require that the homeowner be able to show proof of periodic cleaning by hot water extraction (commonly called "steam" cleaning) by a professional cleaning service or do-it-yourself system, using equipment that is certified under the Carpet and Rug Institute's Seal of Approval program. We strongly recommend cleaning systems that have achieved the Gold Level Performance in the CRI Seal of Approval Program.
Professional advantages
Professional carpet cleaners are a great choice for your floor. Their cleaning equipment has more extraction power than the rental units available to individuals, and the carpet should dry more quickly. True professionals also understand the equipment, know the proper cleaning agents for the situation at hand, and recognize the differences in fibers and carpet construction. Effective January 1, 2008, professional service must be performed by an IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) certified firm."
In its maintenance program guide, Shaw Industries opposes bonnet cleaning its carpet:
"It is not a substitute for hot water extraction. It has very limited capability for soil removal and often leaves most of the detergent in the pile. The spinning bonnet may distort the pile of cut-pile carpets and leave distinct swirl marks. Shaw’s experience has been that more customer soiling complaints result from this system than all other causes combined. The bonnet system may damage the edges of some carpet tiles."
"Cleaning Recommendations:
- Even with regular vacuuming, soil particles and oily dirt will cling to carpet fibers. Foot traffic drives these particles and dirt deep into the carpet. Mohawk recommends professional hot water extraction every 12 to 18 months using cleaning products, equipment or systems that carry the Carpet and Rug Institute Seal of Approval. (Visit www.carpet-rug.org for a complete list of certified products.) Periodic cleaning by a certified carpet care professionals using the standard hot water extraction method (140 degrees) will refresh carpet appearance. Mohawk recommends the use of a certified carpet care professional that adheres to the IICRC S100 Standard Reference Guide for Professional Cleaning
- The most-used areas - entrances, doorways, traffic lanes and in front of chairs- will collect dirt faster than other areas. Clean these areas as soon as they begin to show soil. This will stop dirt from spreading and will extend the time between professional cleanings."
Carpet Maintenance
"Professional Cleaning
- Get your carpets professionally cleaned at least every 12 months, even if you clean them yourself in between
- Lighter shade carpet may require cleaning more often "
FAQs:
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"Does steam cleaning affect stain resistance of STAINMASTER® carpet?
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No. Tests indicate steam cleaning does not affect the stain resistance performance of STAINMASTER®. STAINMASTER® texture retention warranties require steam cleaning or hot water extraction at least every 18-24 months."
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"Are there deodorizers for use after cleaning stain/odor from carpet?
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Yes. Consult a professional cleaner for recommendations on professional deodorizing products. Otherwise we recommend a mixture of two tablespoons white distilled vinegar to one-quart water."
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"Which professional carpet cleaning methods does STAINMASTER® recommend?
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For the texture retention warranty, STAINMASTER® requires the steam cleaning (hot water extraction) method at least every 18-24 months. This method can also be used for regular carpet maintenance.
Other wet or dry methods when properly done are also acceptable. These methods include: absorbent pad or bonnet cleaning, rotary shampoo, and dry foam powder. "
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" Is do-it-yourself carpet cleaning okay?
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Professional cleaning is recommended for any carpet. If you decide to do it yourself, carefully follow these guidelines:
Follow the manufacturer's directions carefully. Avoid using too much detergent, as it could cause resoiling. Rinse thoroughly.
Use only cleaning solutions that are acceptable for use on stain and soil resistant carpet. Cationic or chemicals with a pH greater than 10 should be avoided as they may void your warranty.
Remember that professional cleaning is required at least every 18-24 months to maintain your warranty. "
Carpet Warranties Void:
Collins & Aikman Floorcoverings, a Dalton, GA-based carpet manufacturer, states in its maintenance guide that the company "will not warrant problems caused by poor or improper maintenance."
The company identifies four "non-approved" carpet cleaning methods:
Dry foam. "Detergent is difficult to remove, contributing to rapid re-soiling. Does not deep clean."
Rotary brush. "Detergent is difficult to remove, contributing to rapid re-soiling, and the action of the brushes can cause pile distortion. Does not deep clean.
Bonnet. "This method only affects the surface of the carpet. The buffing action can distort the carpet pile and grind dirt deeper into the pile, and the spinning action of the pad can distort face yarn."
Dry powders. "Not recommended as a primary cleaning method for [company] products. Use instructions for dry powders must be closely followed to make sure powders do not build up in the carpet which result in performance problems."
Collins & Aikman says that water extraction "is the recommended and most effective method to deep clean."
