Efficient and thorough vacuuming is the most important component of carpet maintenance.The use of a heavy-duty vacuum cleaner with power driven brush or beater bar is recommended. Frequent cleaning of the filters and maintenance of the machine is of vital importance to ensure optimum performance at all times.

The frequency of vacuuming will depend on the traffic intensity, propensity of soiling and the type of equipment used. It is important that the soil, grit and dirt particles are thoroughly removed, if not, they will rapidly and irreparably damage the carpet fibres.

Vacuuming should be supplemented with a pile-lifting programme for cut pile carpets as this will lift and open the pile, assisting with the removal of embedded soil. Care must be taken with this type of equipment as incorrect use can result in damage to the pile substrate, more specifically on loop-pile carpeting.

Effective spot removal must be part of the maintenance programme. This should be done daily, in order that spots do not become permanent stains.The correct techniques and cleaning agents should be used, and the persons responsible for this function must be well trained.
Spot removal is done as follows:

1. Remove as much solid residue as possible; with a blunt knife, or spatula, as soon as possible after the spill.
2. Blot-up any spills or remaining liquid with absorbent plain white paper or cloth.
3. Use the recommended removal agent for the particular spill. Do not over-wet and blot-up frequently, working from the outside of the spot towards the centre.
4. When using a new spot removal agent, always test on an inconspicuous area (under or behind a piece of furniture). Apply a few drops of the solution and rub this gently, with a clean white towel. If any colour is transferred to the towel, or a colour change occurs on the carpet, this spotting agent must not be used.
   

This type of cleaning supplements the vacuuming and spot cleaning procedures, but does not replace the deep restorative cleaning.

From time to time a deep clean will be necessary. We recommend the “Spray Extraction” process, also wrongly referred to as “Steam Cleaning”. It is vital that the carpet is well vacuumed prior to this method of cleaning, as any sandy soil will turn to mud rendering it more difficult to extract. We also recommend that the pile is “lifted” before such a clean; to enable better penetration of the cleaning agent. The correct cleaning agent must be used, preferably one that leaves no sticky residue. Over wetting must be avoided, in this respect the correct and properly maintained equipment is vital.

1. Spots should be pre-treated before a deep clean.
2. If too much, or the incorrect detergent is used a residue will be left in the carpet fibre, this will accelerate re-soiling. Never use a detergent that leaves a sticky residue after evaporation.
3. Never over-wet the carpet as this may cause extensive shrinkage or cellulosic browning, and could lead to a musty smell or rotting.
4. The Ph of the cleaning solution for wool should be between 5.5 and 7.00.
5. Chemicals and detergents should be effectively rinsed from the carpet.

Finally, it is imperative that deep-cleans be carried out by qualified commercial cleaners, and that the equipment be in good working condition.

FOR REMOVAL METHODS FOR SPECIFIC STAINS, PLEASE CONTACT enquiries@airloom.co.za