These carpet care tips will improve your carpet extraction results.
- Vacuum thoroughly first. Vacuum the carpet thoroughly to remove loose debris before extracting with water. Make several passes at different angles to remove as much soil as possible.
- Use a pre-treatment cleaning solution. If the carpet is heavily soiled, consider using a pre-treatment chemical spray. This will break down dirt and allow for faster, more efficient cleaning.
- Use a good quality detergent. Not all detergents are equal. Check both the quality of the detergent and the material that it is designed to clean.
- Use the warmest water possible. Check the material of the carpet and set the water temperature on the machine accordingly.
- Start farthest from the door. This will prevent you from having to walk on wet carpet.
- Use tools to good effect. Use the appropriate tools for cleaning stairs, upholstery and other unique surfaces. Use tools for concentrated cleaning to break down dirt near entrances and in high traffic areas.
- Extract moisture after cleaning. This will speed up the drying process and prevent the carpet from smelling musty.
- Allow carpets to dry completely. Damp carpet attracts dirt, so make sure your carpet dries completely before allowing footfall. Make sure the central heating is on and open the windows or use a fan.
- Clean your dirty water tank. Debris from carpet fibers can build up and cause a blockage.
- Keep the unit clean, inside and out. Clean equipment will have fewer service issues and make a better impression on anyone who may see it – clients, staff, supervisors and the public.
- Keep the batteries in tip-top shape. Keep the batteries charged and check the water level on a regular basis.
- Service your machine regularly. Preventative maintenance reduces downtime and lowers your total cost of ownership.
Credit: Cleaning Maintenance & Management magazine, Laura Patock
