A reader asks: "How can improving carpet care practices result in improved worker productivity?"

Maintaining carpeted areas can go a long ways in improving productivity but also providing a higher level of service for the same for fewer labor hours. Upon closer inspection of the carpet, it was noted that most areas were being spot cleaned in such a way that there was a distinct difference in appearance. This is due in part to infrequent carpet shampooing as well as poor practices when the tasks are finally performed. Some carpet actually looked worse after Hot Water Extraction than before. This was partly due to poor suction as well and clogged jets on the HWE unit.

When poor carpet cleaning is followed up with poor carpet spotting the results can be disastrous. It appears that in some areas the spots have been converted to stains that may be much more difficult to remove. My recommendation is that the 80/20 Rule be implemented concerning carpet maintenance. That means that 80 percent of the soiling/wear and tear is on 20 percent of the area. Once that 20 percent is identified, then 80 percent of the effort (available labor and resources) be expended on those areas. First of all, give serious consideration to implementing traffic lane cleaning, which is considered interim maintenance. Either bonnet or encapsulation, when used correctly can cover a lot more area for the same dollar with better results. Since the carpet is out of warranty, bonnet cleaning (using a cotton or microfiber pad system) with the correct cleaning product can provide dynamic results.

No carpet cleaning system is effective if workers are trained adequately in proper procedures. We will continue this analysis in a future article.

Your comments and questions are important. I hope to hear from you soon. Until then, keep it clean...

Mickey Crowe has been involved in the industry for over 35 years. He is a trainer, speaker and consultant. You can reach Mickey at 678-314-2171 or CTCG50@comcast.net.


posted on 4/14/2015