Words: Mark Violand
It’s just carpet!
How many times have you heard that statement? “It’s just carpet. Why do I have to vacuum it so much?” “It’s just carpet. Why does it need to be cleaned so often?”
While we’d like to think it just lies on the floor and looks good, carpet needs proper care to maintain indoor air quality and ensure it lasts as long as possible.
A history in carpet cleaning
I’ve been in this industry since 1977, and I’ve seen a lot of change. Back in the day, we had what you might call “bathtub chemistry,” with machines built for massive cleaning tasks. I once operated a machine capable of running two cleaning wands simultaneously.
In 1987, I attended a flooring industry event in Atlanta where three stain-resistant nylon fibres were introduced, including Anso V Worry-Free and Monsanto Locked-In Stain Blocker. Australians might remember the DuPont STAINMASTER ads featuring a toddler tossing food onto a pristine carpet.
The introduction of these advanced fibres meant carpet cleaning products had to change. Formulations were adjusted to lower pH levels to avoid damaging the new fibres. While this caused upheaval in the residential cleaning market, my company, which primarily cleaned commercial and multi-family housing carpets, adapted more easily.
When I teach the Carpet Cleaning Technician (CCT) course, accredited by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), I often surprise students. On the first day, I promise I can teach them how to clean carpet in just a few hours, but understanding why we clean it the way we do takes much longer. By day two, most students say, “I had no idea there was this much to know about carpet!”
The course is taught according to the ANSI/IICRC S100 Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Cleaning of Textile Floor Coverings. Did you know such a document existed? This comprehensive guide, first published in 1991, continues to evolve, with the most recent updates made in 2021.
The science of carpet care
The IICRC Carpet Cleaning Technician manual contains 14 chapters, covering topics such as:
- Fibre basics and carpet construction
- Carpet dyeing and identifying colour problems
- Types of soiling and cleaning methods
- Deodorising techniques
- Advanced spot and stain removal
Who knew carpet care could involve so much?
Fibre basics
Carpets today are primarily made from synthetic fibres: nylon, polyester and polypropylene. Each fibre type behaves differently, from how it takes dye to its stain resistance and ease of cleaning. We also discuss wool, a popular choice for its durability and natural aesthetic.
The chemistry of cleaning
Cleaning relies on the C.H.A.T. principles—chemical, heat, agitation and time. Understanding the chemistry behind solutions, surfactants and pH is critical. For instance, maintaining neutral pH levels ensures carpet fibres are cleaned effectively without damage.
Soil removal
“Cleaning doesn’t happen until the dirt goes somewhere else.” Whether using hot water extraction, absorbent compounds, or shampoo methods, the goal is to lift soil and remove it thoroughly.
Spot, stain and wicking issues
Cleaners learn to differentiate:
- Spot: A substance added to the carpet (eg., food or paint).
- Stain: Colour added to the carpet (eg., coffee or wine).
- Discolouration: Colour removed from the carpet (eg., bleach).
- Wicking: Substances reappearing as the carpet dries.
Grooming and drying
Post-cleaning grooming lifts the pile for a polished appearance and speeds up drying. Protective measures, such as tabs under furniture, prevent marks on both the carpet and furniture.
Bottom line
Carpet is an investment, much like any major household purchase. Proper maintenance not only keeps it looking great but also improves indoor air quality and extends its life. Even though “it’s just carpet,” professional care ensures a healthier and more attractive environment.
A version of this article was originally published in Cleanfax magazine.
Photo by Kayley on Pexels.
