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CLEANING TIPS

Floors

Wood Floors

Never wet mop, Never clean with oil soap, Never coat with acrylic dressing, like Mop and Glow,
 or apply past or liquid wax to a polyurethane surface floor. You can only damp mop
 with glass cleaners like Glass Plus and Windex. You can't buff or polish these floors
 either. When cleaning, you are cleaning the polyurethane, not the wood. Think of the
 floor surface more as a window or a mirror, if it will streak glass don't use it.

in the event someone has cleaned your wood floors that have a   polyurethane finish with anything other than a water dampened wet mop,we will not be able to clean these floors
Acrylic based Products like MOP AND GLOW FOR WOOD FLOORS will harm your floor,THE  SHINE WILL BE REPLACED WITH A CLOUDY APPEARANCE,if you find yourself in this situation call us at 636-410-5060 and we can refer you to a company that can refinish the floor at a reasonable rate

It's always a good idea to check with a flooring specialist for information on cleaning wood floors because certain treated flooring requires specific cleaning methods. However, one general wood-floor cleaner is a solution of 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar in 1 gallon of warm water. Use a soft cloth with most of the moisture squeezed. Get on your hands and knees and wipe the floor without getting it wet. Then buff with a soft dry cloth to bring out the luster.

Vinyl Floors

Sweep and damp mop using a gallon of water and a dash of dishwashing detergent, regularly to keep abrasive soil off the surface. Scrub as needed with a white nylon backed sponge to loosen stubborn, ground in soil. Nothing cleans as well as doing it on your hands and knees when you have time. Even no-wax floors eventually need waxing, this will help to prevent further deterioration.

Cleaning Rusty Tile

Rust stains on tile can be removed with kerosene.

Cleaning Ceramic Tile

• Before cleaning bathroom tiles, run the shower on hot for five minutes to steam the dirt loose.
• For stubborn stains, apply a paste of scouring powder and water and let sit for five minutes. Scrub with a nylon scrub pad, rinse and wipe dry.
• To keep the grout joints on tile countertops clean longer, wash with a solution of 1 to 2 tablespoons chlorine bleach in one quart of water. Dry thoroughly, then apply an acrylic sealer or three coats of lemon oil. Let dry one hour between coats.
• Remove mildew and make tiles sparkle by sponging with a solution of ammonia and water.
• Remove soot from fireplace tiles with a mixture of lemon juice and salt, then wash.

Cleaning Plastic Tile

• If bathroom walls are dull, wash the tiles with a solution of vinegar and water. Polish with a towel.
• Has a tile come loose? For a quick fix, put a little piece of chewing gum on each corner, use a warm iron to press it back into place.

Cleaning Porcelain

Lighter fluid will remove most dark, stubborn stains from porcelain sinks and bathtubs.

Coffee Stains

To remove a coffee stain from fabric or a rug, try one of these methods:

• Dip a white cloth into a beaten egg yolk and rub the yolk into the stain. Then rinse with clear water.
• Work denatured alcohol into the stain, then rinse with water.
• Apply a solution of 1/2 teaspoon mild detergent in a pint of water. Blot with a white towel. If the stain remains, apply a 50-50 solution of water and white vinegar and blot.

Cleaning Kitchen Countertops

Use a mild dishwashing liquid for plastic lamination and rinse well afterwards to prevent residue from getting on food.

Cleaning Vinyl Floors

Mop with a mild detergent and wait awhile to allow it to penetrate the ground-in dirt.

Cleaning Safety Tip

Don't mix cleaning products like ammonia and bleach. They can be toxic.

Cleaning with Automatic-Dishwasher Detergent.

Automatic-dishwasher detergent works well on refrigerators, stoves, floors, walls and glass.

• Dissolve 1/4 cup in one gallon of very hot water.
• Wipe with a dry cloth afterward.
• Wear rubber gloves and test first to make sure that what you're cleaning is colorfast.

Glassware

• Use the bartender's method for speedy stemware washing. Holding the base, pump the glass vigorously in very hot sudsy water, then quickly put it in hot clear water (cooler water may shatter it) Dry upside down on a cotton towel.
• For extra-shiny, streakless glasses, add a little vinegar or borax to the final rinse water.
• If glasses have hard-water stains, rub them with a scouring pad dipped in vinegar.
• Never use hot water, harsh soaps, ammonia or washing soda on silver or gold-rimmed glasses.
• A well-lathered shaving brush cleans deeply etched or hobnailed glass especially well.
• If eggs have dried on your patterned glass tableware, rub off the residue with a slice of lemon.

Storing Leftovers

When storing leftovers in the refrigerator, use old butter tubs and cottage cheese containers. When its time to clean out the refrigerator you can discard the entire container. You won't have a spilled mess in the garbage can or a sink full of dirty dishes.

Garbage Disposal Tips

• If you've ever switched on the garbage disposal instead of the kitchen light, mark the switch with a dab of red nail polish - anything to stop that grating noise.
• If your dishwasher drains through your garbage disposal, switch it on when the hot soapy water is running through is so it gets a good cleaning.

Stainless Steel

To remove water spots on stainless steel, rub area with a clean, soft cloth dampened with white vinegar. Then wipe dry to avoid spots.

Heel Marks

Use a pencil eraser on black heel marks.

Dishwasher Soap Film

Run a cup of white vinegar through the entire dishwashing cycle in an empty dishwasher to remove all soap film.

Refrigerator Odors

• A little vanilla poured on a piece of cotton and placed in the refrigerator will eliminate odors.
• After cleaning the refrigerator add a dash of lemon extract to the rinse water for a fresh scent.

Stuck on Food

For stuck on food on a casserole dish, try adding 2 tablespoons of baking soda and boiling water to cover the stuck on food. Let sit for a while. The dish will be much easier to clean.

Handy Tie

Drop the twist tie in the bottom of any can or basket before you put the liner in. When you're ready to empty it, the tie is handy.

Cleaning Shower Mats

Dip a stiff brush in a kerosene and warm water solution to clean bath and shower mats.

Easy Bathroom Cleaning

Clean after a steamy bath or shower. The walls, fixtures, etc., will be much easier to clean because the steam will have loosened the dirt.

Cleaning the Sink

• For light stains, rub with a fresh cut lemon.
• For dark stains (like rust) rub with a paste of borax and lemon juice.

Bathtub Rings

• To avoid bathtub rings, don't use oily bath preparations. Use a water softener if you live in a hard-water area. Rinse the tub immediately after bathing.
• If a ring does form, wipe it off with undiluted ammonia (wear rubber gloves) or a wet sponge generously sprinkled with baking soda. Rinse clean and wipe dry. For a more stubborn stain, scour with automatic dishwashing detergent or rub with a cloth dipped in vinegar.

Cleaning with Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol will clean the caulking around bathtubs. It also shines chrome and glass. Liquid chlorine bleach (1/4 cup to one gallon) will also clean caulk.

Cleaning Toilet Bowl

• Clean the toilet bowl while you're away by pouring in 1/4 cup bleach and leaving it until you return.
• Keep the toilet bowl ring-free by pouring a half-gallon of white vinegar in it once a month. Let it soak overnight before flushing.
• Don't use bleach if you're already using a tank-held cleaner that's released when the toilet is flushed. The two may react chemically.
• To avoid clogging and odors, pour one cup baking soda down the bowl weekly.

Getting to Dirt in the Corner

Can't get to that dirt in the corner? Make a pointed tool by cutting an old whisk broom at a 45 degree angle.

Small Bathrooms

If you have a small bathroom or a tile entrance and don't have time to bother with a scrub bucket, just use an all purpose spray cleaner and a damp sponge for quick clean up.

Mildew

To remove mildew from the corners of the tub, dip cotton balls in bleach and let them sit, when you finish cleaning the bath, remove cotton and rinse well. The mildew will be gone.

Disinfectant

Clean with a disinfectant to kill germs. Everything in the bathroom except the mirror can be cleaned this way in just 3 or 4 minutes a day. Keep cleaners in bath for a quick job when unexpected company drops by.

Shower Tile

Remove soap and hard water buildup on shower tile with tile cleaner. Then apply a good paste wax and buff with a dry cloth to deter future water spots.

Air Freshener

For immediate air freshener in the bath, place a fabric softener sheet in the wastepaper basket or add a dab of fragrance on a light bulb. When the light is on, the heat releases the aroma.

Freshen Drain

To freshen drain, pour 1/4 to 1/2 box of baking soda down the drain, add 1/2 cup of white vinegar. Cover drain tightly for a few minutes and flush with cold water.

Shower Doors

• Rub glass shower doors with a white vinegar-dampened sponge to remove soap residue.
• To clean shower track door, pour full strength vinegar into the track, let soak for a few minutes, then rinse.
• A coat of acrylic floor finish gives new shine to fiberglass shower doors and makes water spots disappear. Club soda will give new shine to your counter tops.

Cleaning Shower Curtains

• Before hanging shower curtains, soak in salt water solutions to prevent mildew.
• To remove mildew, wash in hot soapy water, rub with lemon juice and let the shower curtain dry in the sun.
• For plastic curtains, clean with laundry pre-wash spray. Spray along the top, letting it run down to cover the curtain. Allow it to sit for a few minutes, then rinse it off.

Sparkling Sink

Wipe a stainless steel sink with vinegar or a touch of oil on a cloth to make the sink sparkle.

Clean Windows

Wash windows on a cloudy, but not rainy day. Working in direct sunlight causes streaks because the cleaning solution dries before you can wipe it off. This is the best time to vacuum the frames and sills. Cool, clear water is the choice of most professional window washers. If windows are very dirty you can add 2 to 3 tablespoons of vinegar per gallon of water. Use horizontal strokes on the inside and vertical on the outside so you know which side the streaks are on. for drying windows, a wad of crumpled newspaper works just as well as expensive paper towels. Wear rubber gloves to keep your hands free of ink.

Countertops

First remove everything. Then vacuum or dust off all crumbs. Then wet a white nylon backed sponge with dishwashing detergent solution and use the sponge side to go over the counter, including the backsplash. Let the solution set on the surface for a few minutes to soften hard droplets. Then, use the nylon side of the sponge as necessary to remove any stubborn stuff. Buff dry with a clean, lint free towel. If your countertops have lost their luster, try furniture polish or club soda to give a temporary shine to your kitchen.

Feeling the Urge to Clean?

Look at each room and identify specific tasks. Make a list of cleaning priorities. Share the fun with family members.

• Kitchen: wash and wax wood floors and mop vinyl floors. Clean out refrigerator and pantry. Change shelf-liners. Straighten junk drawer Wipe down cabinet.
• Bathroom: Use lint-free cloths or a squeegee to wash windows inside and out. Dust the sill. Vacuum the window well.
• Window Treatments: Vacuum draperies. Wash blinds. Replace heavy drapes with lightweight or sheer curtains.
• Furniture: Polish furniture, wash upholstery, vacuum between cushions. Clean behind and under sofas and cabinets.
• Closets: Give old clothes and furniture to charity. Vacuum floors. Dust shelves. Hang cedar blocks to freshen the areas.

Clean Doors Give a Great Impression

If company is coming, clean and wash the doors in your house. No one knows why, but your whole house looks good. Scrub the door from top to bottom with a rag and soapy water, using a scrub brush for especially tough spots. While you're at it, wipe down the top edge of the frame. With all the dust that collects up there, it probably looks like velvet. Along with the upper side of a ceiling fan, the top of the door is one of the most missed spots in the home.

Best Way to Tackle Cleaning

• Always start at the top of the room and work your way down.
• Always clean top to bottom. When you dust, start at the top and work down.
• Take all your cleaning tools with you into each room to avoid unnecessary trips back and forth.
• Unplug the phone and the turn off the T.V.
• Eliminate clutter. An uncluttered home looks better than one that is dust-free but strewn with odds and ends.
• Clean as you go! It takes a lot less time to remove new dirt than old, and to clean and put away stuff as you use it, than to clean and store the pile-up you can accumulate.
• A house that smells fresh will give the impression of cleanliness. Leave baking soda on carpeting for the night to absorb musty odors, vacuum in the morning.
• Keep a big astro-turf mat on the porch to cut down on tracked in dirt.
• Keep a basket in the kitchen for the mail, newspaper, car keys to help with clutter.
• Keep a hamper in every bathroom.
• Make everyone in charge of making his or her own bed and picking up their stuff.
• Always pickup the T.V. room before bedtime and start the dishwasher.
• Prioritize, if your time is limited decided what is most important.
• Delegate, get the entire family involved.
• Make a checklist, when a job is completed, check it off - you'll feel as though you are really accomplishing something.

Blood Stains

• Put a paste of water and cornstarch, cornmeal or talcum powder on fresh spots. Let dry and brush off.
• Cover fresh or dried stains with meat tenderizer and add cool water. After 15 to 30 minutes, sponge off with cool water.
• Fresh blood on leather? Dab on a little hydrogen peroxide. After it bubbles, wipe it off.
• If you get blood on fabric, quickly wet a long piece of white cotton thread with saliva and place it across the spot. The thread will absorb the blood.

Removing Crayon Marks

Remove crayon marks from painted walls by scrubbing with toothpaste or an ammonia-soaked cloth. Rinse and dry.

Removing Heel Marks

Take pencil eraser and rub them off.

Quick fix for shiny wood floors.

Put a piece of waxed paper under your dust mop. Dirt will stick to the mop and the wax will shine your floors.

Cleaning Windows

• If necessary, dust off the window and sill with a clean paintbrush. Excess dust and water can cause mud.
• Use a professional-type squeegee available for about $20 at a janitorial supply store. Forget the cheap brands you find at the grocery store. They are not as effective, and you have to replace the whole thing once you get a nick in the blade.
• Don't clean windows while they are in direct sunlight. Your cleaning solution will dry too fast.
• Dip a 100% cotton cleaning cloth in your solution. Wring out the excess and then wipe the window to loosen dirt.
• Grab your squeegee. Start each squeegee stroke in a dry spot. Wipe a strip with a cleaning cloth to get started.
• Squeegee in a pattern from top to bottom, or side to side. If you clean the outside and the inside, Work top to bottom on the inside and side to side on the outside. By doing this, you'll be able to identify which side any streaks left behind are on.
• Keep the squeegee blade dry by wiping it with a cleaning cloth after each stroke.
• Replace the blade when necessary. Even the smallest nick can cause streaking.
• Don't have a squeegee? Use newspaper for drying freshly washed windows. It's cheaper and leaves no lint behind.

More Window Washing Hints

Wash windows on a cloudy, but not rainy day. This is the best time to vacuum the frames and sills. Cool, clear water is the choice of most professional window washers. If windows are very dirty you can add 2 to 3 tablespoons of vinegar per gallon of water. For drying windows, a wad of crumpled newspaper works just as well as expensive paper towels. Wear rubber gloves to keep your hands free of ink.

Cleaning Window Sills

To remove spots rub the surface with rubbing alcohol.

Removing Tar Spots

Use paste wax to remove tar from floors. This works on shoes too.

Candle Wax

• For spilled wax on carpets and upholstery, put a brown paper bag over the dried wax and run a hot iron over it. The bag will absorb the hot wax.
• Dried wax on wood floors can be removed by softening the wax with a hair dryer, then removing with paper towels. Wash spot down with a combination of vinegar and water.

Cleaning Soiled Shirt Collars

Take a small paintbrush and brush hair shampoo into soiled shirt collars before laundering. Shampoo is made to dissolve body oils.

Cleaning Combs and Brushes

Use a combination of baking soda and hot water to clean hair brushes and combs.

Removing Deodorant Stains from Washables

Sponge area with white vinegar. If stain remains, soak with denatured alcohol. Wash with detergent in hottest water safe for fabric.

Cleaning Glass Table Tops

• Clean by rubbing with a little lemon juice, dry with paper towels and polish with newspaper for a sparkling table.
• Toothpaste will remove small scratches from glass.

Cleaning Marble

To remove stains, sprinkle salt on a fresh cut lemon. Rub very lightly over stain. Do not rub hard or you will ruin the polished surface. Wash off with soap and water.

Polishing Furniture

• Carved furniture- dip old toothbrush into furniture polish and brush lightly.
• To remove polish build-up mix one cup water and one cup vinegar. Dip soft cloth in the mixture and wring out before wiping furniture. Dry immediately with another soft, dry cloth.

Cleaning Acoustical Tiles

• Clean with the dust-brush attachment of your vacuum cleaner.
• Remove stains and dirt with mild soap and water. Don't let the tiles get too wet.

Cleaning Wallpaper

• To dust papered walls, tie a dustcloth over your broom and work from the top down.
• To remove pencil marks and other non-greasy spots from non-washable papers, use an art-gum eraser or a slice of fresh rye bread.
• To remove greasy spots, crayon marks and food stains, apply a paste of cleaning fluid and fuller's earth, cornstarch or whiting. Let dry and brush off. Repeat the treatment until the spot is gone.
• Wipe off fingerprints with a damp cloth, then sprinkle the moist area with fuller's earth. Let it dry and then brush it off.
• To prevent splash marks when you're washing baseboards or other woodwork, mask wallpaper with a wide ruler, venetian blind-slat or a piece of rigid plastic.
• When you save scraps of wallpaper for patching, tack them to a wall in the attic or closet. When you use them for repairs, they won't look so brand new.

Removing Water Stains

• If the fabric is non-washable, gently scratch off the stain (which is made up of mineral deposits) with your fingernail. Still there? Hold the spot over a steaming teakettle until well-dampened. As it dries, rub the stain, working from its outer edges toward the center.
• Remove hard-water stains from glasses and bottles by rubbing them with steel wool dipped in vinegar.
• Cover hard-water stains on bathroom fixtures with a paste of baking soda and vinegar. Then drape with a terry clot towel and let stand for about an hour. Wipe off, rinse and dry.

Cleaning Wicker

Remove dust from wicker by vacuuming with the dust brush attachment. To remove grime, wash with a solution of 2 tablespoons ammonia per gallon of water. use a paintbrush or a toothbrush to get at hard-to-reach places. Rinse well. Air dry in the shade.

Cleaning Miniblinds

• Slip your hands into a pair of socks for cleaning the miniblinds. Dip one hand into a bucket of warm, soapy water and hold the blinds between your two hands. Rub back and forth until you've cleaned the whole surface. Then reverse sides so the dry sock dries the blinds.
• Wipe miniblinds with damp fabric softener sheets to eliminate static that collects dust. The same trick works for your T.V. screen.

Miniblind Spring Cleaning

• Take the blind down and take it outside.
• Lay it on an old blanket preferably on a slanted area of the yard.
• Let the blind out all the way and make sure all the louvers are flat.
• Mix up a bucket of all-purpose cleaner or ammonia solution.
• Scrub with a soft brush then turn it over to do the back side.
• By now the blanket is wet and is helping to clean the blind and protecting it.
• Hang the blind on a clothesline and hose it off.
• Gentle shaking will help it begin to drip dry.

Indoor Plants

Remember, plants get dusty too. You can clean small plants in the kitchen sink, and larger ones enjoy a shower in the bathroom.

Doorknobs

Always disinfect doorknobs, switchplates and telephones. They collect germs from everyone who touches them.

Clean Mirrors

Remove hair spray from a mirror with a little rubbing alcohol on a soft cloth.

Linen Closets

Linen closets can be a jumbled mess, especially when you have children making their own beds. Organize bed linens in sets. Fold flat sheet in half twice lengthwise, then fold fitted sheet the same way and lay it on top of the flat folded sheet. Add one or two pillow cases folded long ways and roll them all together into a neat roll. Whoever is making the bed can grab only a roll instead of rummaging around and making a mess.

Dusting Tip

Spray broom or dust mop with you favorite furniture polish and the dust and dirt will be easier to collect when you sweep.

Fresh Curtains

Freshen curtains in the dryer with a fabric softener sheet and a damp towel.

Cobwebs

If you can't reach the cobwebs with your feather duster, use the detached vacuum wand as an extension.

Ashtrays

Spray furniture polish on hard to clean ashtrays. Ashes then dump out without sticking.

If You've Got Allergies

• Air condition your home.
• Keep bathrooms free of mold and mildew.
• Avoid pets or restrict them to certain areas.
• Damp mop hard surfaces regularly.
• Enclose your fireplace.
• Fluff drapes and rugs in dryer to remove dust.
• Use your exhaust fans.
• Vacuum mattresses.
• Don't allow smoking in your home.
• Replace furnace filters frequently.
• Vacuum everything once a week.
• Invest in an ozone-free air cleaner.

Odor and Moisture Removal

To get rid of odor you have to remove the source, not just cover the odor up with perfumed air freshener. Clean up and disinfect. Kill the germs that cause most household odors. The quicker you get after odors, the easier they are to remove.

Mix Your Own Cleaning Solutions

• Ammonia, diluted with 3 parts water in an empty spray bottle can be used to clean windows, appliances and countertops. Full strength it can remove wax build-up from the kitchen floor.
• An excellent way to scour copper and brass is 1/2 cup vinegar mixed with 1 tablespoon salt.
• Full strength pine oil is great for deodorizing garbage cans, and scrubbing the kitchen and bathroom floor.
• Baking soda can be used instead of scouring powder and also removes stains and odors from refrigerators and coffee pots.
• A sprinkle of dry baking soda before vacuuming will freshen the carpeting. Try it as a deodorizer for diaper pails and kitty litter.

Urine Spots

Get to them quickly with a solution of dish detergent and water.

Cleaning Up After Pets

Removing pet hair
On carpeting, use a vacuum with a good beater brush or brush roll. Plain vacuums don't generate sufficient lift to pick up all the pet hair from the floor.
 
Speed removal of pet hair from fabrics and upholstery with a pet rake, a brush with crimped nylon bristles. Use light, even strokes to remove the hair. Velour brushes, tape rollers and even tape wrapped around your hand also will work. Both pet supply and home stores sell "pet sponges," which are used dry on both upholstery and carpets. They can be an especially good option for hard-to-reach corners and edges where hair tends to collect. As long as dampness won't harm the fabric, you can also use a slightly dampened sponge or even the rubber bottom of a clean tennis shoe.

Lifting stains
To remove a pet urine stain, dilute the spot using a cloth dampened with water. Then, clean the area with an acid solution consisting of one quart water mixed with one teaspoon white vinegar.
 
If necessary, you can apply a pet bacteria/enzyme digester according to the directions. You can find these products at any pet store; they effectively counter both the stain and the odor. Even if the stain has disappeared or our human noses can no longer smell anything, a pet will repeatedly return to the same spot if he can still smell his own odor. Here are some other hints:

• Be sure to use enough bacteria/enzyme digester to penetrate the carpet and pad.
• Keep in mind that digesters work well but slowly. Leave the solution on as long as indicated.
• After applying the solution, cover with plastic and step on the spot several times until the area is well saturated.
• Keep the plastic on the entire time the digester is working to make sure the spot doesn't dry out.

Older stains
If the stain is older, it may be nearly impossible to remove, but try the digester. If the site has seen multiple accidents, the bacteria breaking down the stain may actually create a superalkaline state that interferes with the digester's intended action. In this case, follow these steps:

• After the bacteria digester has been working for about four hours, neutralize the spot by mixing a solution of one cup of vinegar to a gallon of warm water.
• Rinse the area with the vinegar solution.
• Apply a fresh batch of bacteria/enzyme digester solution.

You might also try buying a hypodermic needle from your local pharmacy and filling it with your favorite perfume or potpourri. You'll need to inject both the carpet and the pad for it to work. If you still have a problem, have the carpet cleaned by extraction. It may even be necessary to replace the pad underneath.

Stomach trouble
If your pet has an upset stomach on your carpet, cleanup may be trickier. The extremely acidic nature of vomit can cause the acid dyes in the carpet to move, permanently damaging the carpet. Dyes in your pet's food or medicine may also combine with the strong stomach acid to stain your flooring. That's why it's essential to neutralize or at least dilute the acid as quickly as possible to minimize damage. To bring the carpet back to a neutral pH:

• Treat the affected area using a professional carpet detergent.
• Rinse the area with clean hot water.
• Extract the soiled solutions away from the carpet.

If the stains cannot be removed, carpet dyeing may be a good option. While not as permanent as factory dyeing, spot dyeing will solve the problem of bleached carpet.

CARPET CLEANING BASICS

Carpet is everywhere! People who understand carpet know that its immense success and consumer acceptance is not due to chance. Few construction materials offer the advantages that carpet does. Carpet is colorful, comfortable and yet easy to maintain. Even though it appears expensive, it is often the most economical choice for floor covering. Carpet and rugs found on the floors of residences and commercial buildings still represent a substantial investment. In light of this, is it not wise to maintain them correctly?

Like all textile materials, the beauty and life of a carpet depends largely on the care that it is given. Proper maintenance can add years of attractive life. Specific maintenance procedures for carpet are determined by where the carpet is installed. In general, proper maintenance involves regular vacuuming and periodic cleaning by methods such as hot water extraction, shampooing, bonnet cleaning, foam cleaning, etc.

Regular vacuuming is essential as it removes particulate soil that damages the fibers. Vacuuming maintains the surface appearance of a carpet and keeps the level of soil in the pile at an acceptable level. Vacuuming should be done at least once every two weeks, preferably once each week and even twice per week in soiled or heavily trafficked areas. It is important to use a well-maintained, good quality vacuum. Vacuuming removes only particulate soil and surface dirt; therefore, other methods of cleaning are periodically required to improve the appearance of the carpet. Wet cleaning methods are better for removing oils, greases and other forms of matter that cause soiling on carpet. These methods are mostly used by professional cleaners and trained personnel, but smaller, less powerful units, can also be rented for use by customers.

Brief Description of Carpet Cleaning Methods

It has been said that ignorance is bliss. Sometimes, maybe, but not always. Before having a carpet cleaned, you may find it helpful to understand some of the carpet cleaning methods. The best method for cleaning a particular carpet is dependent on a range of factors. All carpet cleaning methods offer various advantages, but also have some limitations. No single method is superior to all others. Properly performed under appropriate conditions, each method can provide satisfactory results. Often, several methods can be combined to achieve the desired results. The following are some of the more prevalent carpet cleaning methods. (Note: There is no significance to the order in which these techniques are presented.)

Hot Water Extraction or "Steam" Cleaning

In this method, hot water cleaning solution is sprayed on the carpet and immediately extracted (along with the dissolved soil) by a wet vacuum. Extraction equipment can be portable or truck-mounted, the latter being more powerful in terms of spray pressure, heating capabilities and power of the vacuum pumps. Hot water extraction is often referred to as "steam" cleaning. In actuality this is a misnomer as the temperature of the heated solution never reaches the point to generate steam.

Shampooing

In this process, the cleaning solution is showered onto the carpet through several openings in a circular brush. The rotary action of the brush whips the detergent into a foam and provides agitation or rubbing action on the carpet. This suspends the soil, and the wet/dry vacuuming that follows removes it.

Bonnet Cleaning

This method resembles the shampooing process described above. It employs a rotary floor machine on the bottom of which is attached a round absorbent pad (shag pad). The detergent is sprayed directly on the carpet. As the machine is operated, the shag pad rotates on the carpet. This removes the soil as it is absorbed on the shag pad. The shag pad can also be moistened with detergent. When one side of the pad becomes soiled, the pad is reversed until both sides are soiled, at which time it is replaced.

Foam Cleaning

This system uses detergent in the form of a foam. Machines are available that generate foam, which is agitated on the carpet by brushes. The foam is then removed, with trapped soil, by an extraction-vacuum pickup.

Dry (Absorbent Compound) Cleaning

In this process the cleaning agent, an absorbent dry compound (containing solvents and detergents) is sprinkled on the carpet and worked into the pile by a machine. It is vacuumed off after about half an hour, removing the soil suspended by the compound.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD CARPET BE CLEANED?

As explained earlier, vacuuming alone, although essential, cannot maintain the appearance of a carpet at an acceptable level for long. Depending on various factors, the appearance of any carpet will ultimately reach an unacceptable level. At that stage, cleaning is necessary by one of the methods mentioned above. The frequency of such cleaning will depend on a carpet's use conditions, soil conditions, fiber type, constructional specifications, color, etc. In general, residential carpet requires cleaning within one to one and one-half years; certainly before two years of use (and possible abuse).

When deciding to have a carpet cleaned, consumers have two basic choices:
1) clean the carpet themselves by D-I-Y (do it yourself) rental units or consumer products, or
2) have the carpet cleaned by a professional/specialist in cleaning and restoration.

Do-It-Yourself Cleaning

Like most decisions, the choice between having a carpet cleaned professionally and D-I-Y cleaning is based frequently on financial considerations. Electing to use a rental unit rather than a professional cleaner may be penny wise and pound foolish. Before deciding to do it yourself, several points should be considered.

Contrary to common belief, carpet cleaning is an intricate process. When spots, stains and traffic patterns have made carpet unsightly, cleaning by D-I-Y methods may not enhance the appearance to the desired level. Consumers in most cases have had little or no previous experience operating the machines. Therefore, there is a good possibility of misuse and/or overuse. Machines can be rented for D-I-Y cleaning that utilize one of the various methods already mentioned (shampooing, hot water extraction, dry absorbent compound, etc.). Shampooing machines, for example, leave some residue on the carpet. If the carpet is shampooed many times the residue can accumulate leading to various problems, such as severe foaming on later cleaning, stickiness etc.

Rental machines that use hot water extraction ("steam") cleaning are the most popular for residential use. Successful cleaning by these machines is largely dependent on the experience of the operator. Improper use can leave the carpet overly wet, causing possible backing delamination, odor from development of mold-mildew-fungi, cellulosic browning, color run, shrinkage, and other related problems. This can happen especially in areas of repeated, high volume use, or "traffic lanes". One or two passes of the cleaning wand may not be sufficient to enhance the appearance of such areas. Attempts to clean them over and over again can cause overwetting and its attendant problems.

D-I-Y cleaning by the dry-absorbent compound method will not cause such problems as overwetting, color run, shrinkage, etc. But it, too, can mean some headaches. If the final vacuuming operation is not thorough, some of the powder will be left in the carpet pile. With repeated cleanings, enough cleaning compound can accumulate to cause some discoloration by its own presence.

The obvious conclusion is that carpet cleaning by D-I-Y methods is not a substitute for professional cleaning. It can, at best, merely postpone the need or reduce the frequency of professional cleanings. Rental units lack adequate power, and consumers usually lack the expertise to succeed in properly maintaining carpet and prolonging its attractive life.

Selecting the Right Carpet Cleaner

Having established that professional carpet cleaning is essential for extending a carpet or rug's attractive life, the next question is how does one go about choosing the right person or firm to do the job?

There is no magical, single method for carpet cleaning. All methods have advantages as well as disadvantages. Moreover, different people can achieve different results while cleaning the same carpet with identical equipment. No method can compensate for an inept operator. Therefore, it is more important to select the right cleaner than the right cleaning method.

Not all cleaners are alike. In fact, the difference in the quality of service from one cleaner to another can be astounding. However, with so many claims, counterclaims and a diversion of equipment and technology available, how do you go about choosing the right person or firm? It can be difficult because there are so many choices available. There are a few guidelines to follow that can help you make the correct choice.

1. Affiliation with Professional Organizations

Carpet cleaning is an ever-changing field. Each year new cleaning systems, cleaning chemicals and extra services are introduced. Good professional cleaners keep abreast of such changes and constantly improve the services they offer. It's much like medicine. Would you like to be treated by a doctor who is not aware of the new medications and advancements in their field.

Affiliation with professional trade associations goes a long way.

2. Recommendations

Ask the cleaner for names of previous customers. Gauge how reluctant or eager they are in granting your request. Call the references and find out about their cleaning experience. Ask about the cleaner's appearance, their manner of presentation, the condition of their equipment, their ability to answer questions, etc. Find out if the overall cleaning experience was pleasant and if they would go back to the same firm.

3. Better Business Bureau (BBB)

Check with the local BBB to find out if any complaints are registered against the firm you are considering. If yes, how good and efficient was the firm's response to the complaint? Did they remedy the problem to the consumer's satisfaction?

4. Watch Out for the Low End

Misleading advertising and glib sales tactics leave cleaners who offer quality service at a disadvantage. Advertisements promising carpet cleaning at unbelievably low prices (like $5.95 a room; or two rooms for $10.95) are prevalent these days. If you think they are too good to be true, you are probably correct.

Have you been left with an overwet and still dirty carpet? Have you ended up paying several times more than what you thought you would be paying? If yes, then you have had firsthand experience with such cleaners.

Quality service requires investments and takes time. It is not possible to offer good service at ridiculously low prices. Do not fall victim to low pricing or Bait and Switch tactics.

5. You can Contribute to the Success of a Cleaning Job

Cleaning chemicals and procedures can be altered to fit the specific needs of the carpet being cleaned. Describe the use and conditions of the carpet and all previous home and professional cleanings to your professional cleaner. For example, if the carpet has been shampooed several times before, it is reasonable to expect the presence of some detergent residue. With this information, your cleaner may change the cleaning solution to compensate for this.

If your carpet has stains, point them out to the cleaning crew. Tell them how long the stains have been there and what may have caused them. Some spots and stains, such as those from bleaches, urine, mildew, etc., may be impossible to remove even by the most proficient cleaner. Knowing about them will prevent disappointments resulting from unrealistic expectations.

Do not remove furniture protectors placed under furniture legs until the carpet is completely dry. Mahogany, redwood and other kinds of wooden furniture can bleed color onto carpet. Metal legs may rust if placed on the floorcoverings that are still wet.

Remember, if properly selected, your cleaner is an expert professional, so follow care instructions he leaves behind after cleaning. In order to insure the best appearance retention of your carpet, we recommend that you follow these simple suggestions:

1. Circulate the air to speed up drying time. If possible, slightly open a window to let in fresh air.

2. Do not allow children or pets to crawl or walk on cleaned carpet for at least 24 hours- preferably longer - until carpet is thoroughly dry.

3. Do not walk on freshly cleaned carpet for at least 4 hours or more until dry to touch.

4. Do not remove aluminum or plastic pieces that have been placed under legs of furniture until carpet is absolutely dry.

5. Vacuum after carpet is dry and then vacuum on a regular basis.

Protect Your Investment

Carpet, rugs, upholstery, and draperies are probably among your most important possessions. Chances are you have spent a good deal of money acquiring them. Protect your investments. Take the time to find the right cleaner. You will be surprised at the number of problems that can develop from a poorly performed cleaning job. Even though choosing the right cleaner won't guarantee the complete absence of problems, it will greatly reduce the chances. Selecting a good cleaning firm will insure the highest level of satisfaction.

Carpet Stains

• Scrape off any solids. Blot up liquids quickly, dabbing lightly with a clean white towel or paper towel.
• To remove greasy stains, apply a nonflammable dry-cleaning agent to the spot with a white towel. Work from the edges toward the center. Don't scrub. Dab gently until the spot comes clean. Always pretest any cleaning agent on an inconspicuous part of the carpet and let it dry before continuing.
• Coat less stubborn greasy stains with aerosol shaving cream or carbonated water. Use a hair dryer to speed dry. Then vacuum.
• Sprinkle a greasy stain with baking soda, cornstarch, cornmeal, or talcum powder. Leave on at least 6 hours, then vacuum.
• To remove water-soluble stains, apply some detergent solution (1 1/2 teaspoon mild detergent per pint of water), working from the edges to the center of the stain. Place several layers of white tissues or paper towels over the spot and weight down with books or pots and pans. Let stand about one hour. Replace with fresh tissues or towels and leave overnight. Then fluff up the carpet pile with your fingers.