Carpets Cleaning - General Information
Eventually carpets need some type of cleaning to
remove soil that sticks to the fibers. How often depends
on amount of use and soil carpet gets; some areas will
need cleaning before other. Basic methods are: dry
absorbent powder, foam, shampooing, and hot water
extraction (sometimes called steam cleaning or
extraction). Each method has advantages and
disadvantages. Costs in dollars, time, and energy vary,
as do skill needed to do a good job. Always vacuum
thoroughly before starting cleaning method.
Here are some general precautions for all methods:
-Pretest before using (see "Carpets-Pretesting Cleaning
Products")
-Protect the carpet from rust stains by putting aluminum
foil, wax paper, or plastic wrap under furniture legs,
until carpet is dry.
-Follow the cleaner and equipment instructions as
directed.
-Do not overwet the carpet. Excess moisture can cause
shrinkage, streaks, or mildew.
-Keep mechanical action to a minimum to avoid carpet
damage or streaks.
Foam Sprays
Aerosol foam sprays are available in most grocery
and hardware stores. The foam is sprayed in a thin layer
on the carpet, worked in with a wet sponge, allowed to
dry, and then vacuumed. Work in one area at a time;
otherwise streaking may occur if the foam dries before
mopping. Examples of this product include Glory, Woolite
Spray Foam, Blue Lustre, and Glamorene Spray 'N Vac Rug
Cleaner.
Advantages
-convenient
-quick drying
-needs no special equipment
Disadvantages
-best for lightly soiled carpets
-cleans only the carpet surface