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Contributed By Servi-Tek Facility Solutions

According to the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI), carpeted floors are the best option for a variety of business environments. Carpet is adaptable to small or large areas, improves aesthetics, is sustainable, and represents a tremendous value.

Carpeting delivers solutions including the ability to reduce slip-and-fall accidents, limit noise, conserve energy, enhance comfort, and be eco-friendly. From an environmental perspective, carpet emits very low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) compared to most alternatives

Building owners and facility managers should understand the importance of adhering to a professional carpet cleaning and maintenance plan.

Be Properly Equipped

Maintaining clean carpets in busy commercial environments involves more than simply periodic use of vacuum cleaners or carpet extractors. Professional commercial carpet cleaners operate using a comprehensive approach that includes routine cleaning, interim maintenance, light cleaning, and deep restoration

As with any professionally completed activity, proper carpet care requires having high-quality, well-maintained equipment and a commercial-grade carpet cleaner. Significant advancements have recently been achieved in developing professional carpeting cleaning equipment that has bolstered performance and efficiency.

Some of the most dramatic, equipment-related improvements have involved more powerful batteries that allow cordless use and portability. Components and equipment are considerably more ergonomic, which reduces stress on users and limits the likelihood of injury. 

4 Essential Steps To Performing Carpet Care 

The CRI outlines a series of four critical steps that are central to performing professional carpet cleaning as follows:

  • Implementing a regular vacuuming schedule that targets high-traffic areas more frequently and is performed with professional equipment
  • Using a Seal of Approval (SOA-certified) cleaning agent for “spot” cleaning as needed
  • Performing a “deep” cleaning of the carpeting at least every 12 to 18 months using SOA-approved products to extract entrenched dirt
  • Establishing preventive measures for capturing dirt and grime such as the placement of mats in primary entryways

One primary consideration when choosing commercial carpeting and developing a cleaning and maintenance plan involves the amount of foot traffic. Areas of high traffic space require more frequent cleaning and the carpeting material must be durable and stain-resistant.

Selecting A Carpet Cleaner

Finding the best type of carpet cleaner for a commercial facility requires conducting an assessment of your specific needs. While commercial carpet cleaning machines are less bulky, their weight remains a common concern.

For example, lightweight machines are important in multi-floor buildings that require the machine to be carried up a flight of stairs. While the purchase price of the carpet cleaner is important, the affordability of the cleaning agents is a key ongoing expense. 

A commercial-grade carpet cleaning machine should represent a good overall value rather than just a good purchase price. In many cases, a model that appears to be a good “deal” may have flaws i.e., lacking durability.

Look for machines with good internal heating mechanisms that will keep the water temperature high. Units with poor heating capabilities are less effective against dirt and grime and can increase the necessary drying time.

For example, some carpet cleaners have an internal heater for clean water. This feature maintains a higher water temperature to provide a deeper cleaning experience.

The majority of carpet shampooers today have more powerful motors, wheels, an accessory hose, and upholstery tools.

For additional insights, access Servi-Tek's entire article here.