3 Keys to an Effective Commercial Carpet Cleaning Program

One critical aspect of many cleaning services, whether internal operations or Building Service Contractors, is the cleaning of commercial carpeting. Few areas of a facility take as much daily abuse as carpeting. Commercial carpeting typically represents a significant investment. That investment can be protected by adopting effective carpet maintenance procedures. What are some of the components of an effective commercial carpet cleaning program?

A robust program can be broken down into three basic categories:

Routine Maintenance

Routine maintenance will include the following:

• Protective Matting:  Use of protective matting in high traffic areas is an excellent way to protect carpeting. Chair mats will also shield carpeting from the constant wear and tear of office chairs rolling across its surface. There are a variety of types of protective matting to choose from.  Some can be cleaned and reused while others can be economically replaced.
• Daily Vacuuming:  Vacuuming is the mainstay of routine carpet maintenance. Daily vacuuming---using a properly filtrated CRI approved vacuum---will not only improve the appearance of the carpet but will also help extend its life. It is important that your cleaning staff be adequately trained on proper vacuuming techniques.
• Spot Removal: An effective commercial carpet cleaning program will contain a procedure for prompt removal of spots and stains. The procedure will specify the proper method of spot blotting, agitation, cleaning, and rinsing. The procedure will provide guidelines on preferred cleaning solutions and materials.

Preventive Cleaning 

A preventive cleaning program, when properly implemented, will greatly extend the life of carpeting. An effective preventive cleaning schedule will include provisions for:

• Encapsulation Cleaning:  An interim, low-moisture, cleaning process that requires no extensive drying period.
• Deodorizing:  Removal of bacterial residue and contaminants that contribute to carpet odor.
• Application of Anti-Stain Products: Guidelines for product selection and application techniques. Use of these products can provide proactive protection against stains.

The preventive cleaning program will specify a cleaning schedule based on the specific conditions within the facility being cleaned.

Restorative Cleaning

In cases where commercial carpeting has become badly soiled and/or matted, a restorative cleaning process will be required. Restorative cleaning would include the use of Hot Water Extraction equipment and supplies. This process provides a deep cleaning that will lift and remove deeply embedded dirt and contaminates that cannot be extracted by normal vacuuming. Once the carpet has been restored it will be possible to return to use of the "Routine" and "Preventive" cleaning procedures.

Nothing detracts from the overall appearance of a facility more so than poorly maintained carpet. Poorly maintained carpet can also negatively affect the facility's heath due to its tendency to trap and accumulate dirt, dust, and allergens. An effective commercial carpet cleaning program will improve the appearance, feel, and longevity of carpet while also providing a healthier environment for those that walk upon it.