According to the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI), carpeted floors are the best option for a variety of business environments. Carpet is adaptable to small or large areas, improves aesthetics, is sustainable, and represents a tremendous value.
Carpeting delivers solutions including the ability to reduce slip-and-fall accidents, limit noise, conserve energy, enhance comfort, and be eco-friendly. From an environmental perspective, carpet emits very low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) compared to most alternatives
Building owners and facility managers should understand the importance of adhering to a professional carpet cleaning and maintenance plan.
The Amount of Work That the Equipment Will Do for You
Maintaining clean carpets in busy commercial environments involves more than simply periodic use of vacuum cleaners or carpet extractors. Professional commercial carpet cleaners operate using a comprehensive approach that includes routine cleaning, interim maintenance, light cleaning, and deep restoration
As with any professionally completed activity, proper carpet care requires having high-quality, well-maintained equipment and a commercial-grade carpet cleaner. Significant advancements have recently been achieved in developing professional carpeting cleaning equipment that has bolstered performance and efficiency.
Some of the most dramatic, equipment-related improvements have involved more powerful batteries that allow cordless use and portability. Components and equipment are considerably more ergonomic, which reduces stress on users and limits the likelihood of injury.
Carpet Cleaning Experts Recommend…
The CRI outlines a series of four critical steps that are central to performing professional carpet cleaning as follows:
- Implementing a regular vacuuming schedule that targets high-traffic areas more frequently and is performed with professional equipment
- Using a Seal of Approval (SOA-certified) cleaning agent for “spot” cleaning as needed
- Performing a “deep” cleaning of the carpeting at least every 12 to 18 months using SOA-approved products to extract entrenched dirt
- Establishing preventive measures for capturing dirt and grime such as the placement of mats in primary entryways
Amount of Traffic on Your Carpet
One primary consideration when choosing commercial carpeting and developing a cleaning and maintenance plan involves the amount of foot traffic. Areas of high traffic space require more frequent cleaning and the carpeting material must be durable and stain-resistant.
What’s the Best Type of Commercial Grade Carpet Cleaner for High Traffic Areas?
Finding the best type of carpet cleaner for a commercial facility requires conducting an assessment of your specific needs. While commercial carpet cleaning machines are less bulky, their weight remains a common concern.
For example, lightweight machines are important in multi-floor buildings that require the machine to be carried up a flight of stairs. While the purchase price of the carpet cleaner is important, the affordability of the cleaning agents is a key ongoing expense.
A commercial-grade carpet cleaning machine should represent a good overall value rather than just a good purchase price. In many cases, a model that appears to be a good “deal” may have flaws i.e., lacking durability.
What Should I Be Looking For?
Look for machines with good internal heating mechanisms that will keep the water temperature high. Units with poor heating capabilities are less effective against dirt and grime and can increase the necessary drying time.
For example, some carpet cleaners have an internal heater for clean water. This feature maintains a higher water temperature to provide a deeper cleaning experience.
The majority of carpet shampooers today have more powerful motors, wheels, an accessory hose, and upholstery tools.
Why Hire a Professional Carpet Cleaner?
A professional carpet cleaning company is properly equipped with the tools needed to get the job done. Based on prior experience, the professionals also understand the best strategies and practices for maximizing efficiency and removing tough stains.
Hiring a professional company will eliminate the need to purchase supplies, maintain inventory, and repair equipment. A busy facility manager will likely appreciate eliminating the need to hire and supervise staff members to perform carpet care.
Commercial Grade Carpet Cleaners: Three Important Things to Consider
- Tank Capacity: The majority of commercial-quality units have two tanks that keep the clean and dirty water separated. Models will have different capacities, often ranging from two to four gallons.
- Warranty: The majority of the commercial-grade carpet cleaners will include a manufacturer warranty. The machine that you choose should have at least a one-year warranty—preferably a multi-year guarantee.
- Accessories: Manufacturers continue to include a host of standard features and accessories and some that may be added for an additional price. At the minimum, the machine should have ample power, multiple nozzle options, and a tool for crevice areas.
Why Keeping Your Commercial Carpet Clean is Vital?
The importance of cleaning and maintaining commercial carpeting extends beyond simply the appearance of the environment. The carpeting may contain germs that can impact a business’ bottom line because of worker absences due to illness.
Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor indicates that more than four million illness-related absences occur annually throughout the U.S. This is data compiled in years before the COVID-19 pandemic.
A clean workplace environment has also been shown to boost employee morale and productivity while reducing turnover. All of these factors translate to substantial costs for U.S. businesses.
Make Your Carpet Last Longer
Keeping your commercial carpeting cleaned is an important factor in maximizing its expected service life. While the amount of foot traffic is an important factor, failing to regularly clean carpeting will also shorten its lifespan.
Commercial Carpet Cleaning Equipment an Overview
Two of the core components used in maintaining commercial carpets include a vacuum and a carpet cleaner. Both dry carpet cleaning machines exist as well as those that use steam.
Many applications require using a defoamer to remove excessive detergent. The defoaming process typically involves liquids containing silicone, oil, or other lubricants.
Spot cleaning solutions also referred to as stain removers, are also critical to carpet cleaning. These are options that target particularly stubborn stains that need additional attention.
Portable air filtration devices or “air scrubbers” are used to remove tiny airborne particles. The scrubbers will reduce respiratory irritation and keep the area smelling fresh.
A carpet rake refers to a device that penetrates deep within the carpet fibers to loosen debris for easier removal. At the same time, rakes ensure that the cleaning agents used become thoroughly absorbed.
What to Look for in a Commercial Carpet Cleaning Company
When considering a commercial carpet cleaning company, it is critical to find one that is detail-oriented and organized. A professional cleaning company should conduct a detailed inspection and propose a customized plan.
The organization should always present you with a defined plan that indicates the goals, intervals, timing, etc. Consider asking the company representative for references who are current or past clients.
Look for an organization that is committed to maintaining communication and encourages feedback. This is important when entering an ongoing relationship with a professional service provider.
The company should also be properly registered, licensed, and insured. Avoid basing your decision solely on price, as higher-quality service providers are not necessarily the lowest priced.
How to Make Sure the Brand You Are Getting is of the Highest Quality
Choosing a brand of carpet cleaner involves diligent research. Look for reviews from those who have purchased the machine, but also read independent assessments such as from Consumer Reports.
Keep in mind that a high-quality commercial-grade model differs from the less-costly residential (home) models. Remain aware that many of the major manufacturers make products for both markets.
Clean High Traffic Areas the Right Way
Among the most critical areas for regular cleaning are those that have the most foot traffic. This is of particular importance near entryways where people are tracking in dirt, moisture, etc.
While performing very concise cleaning of the carpet in high-traffic areas is important, the cleaning intervals are also key. Dirt and debris will continue becoming more deeply entrenched under continual foot traffic, making a routine very critical.
The 5 Toxic Ingredients Your Carpet Cleaner Absolutely Should Not Have
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) developed a Safer Choice program that is among the leading resources for product safety. The organization was also involved with the preceding Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA).
Five products to avoid include:
- Stain repellant options that use poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): Fortunately, most of these products are being phased out due to concerns related to inhalation and ingestion.
- Antimicrobial plastic preservatives: Examples include triclosan, an endocrine disruptor, and formaldehyde, an airborne carcinogen.
- Some carpet adhesives: Toxic substances including bisphenol A and nonylphenol should not be used to keep the carpeting in place.
- Dibutyltin dilaurate: This product was used in carpet backing and cleaning may loosen material that harms the water supply.
- Perchloroethylene: A common chemical used in dry cleaning, along with naphthalene, a carpet cleaning solvent, may harm the nervous system.
Provider of Customized Commercial Carpet Cleaning Services
Servi-Tek Facility Solutions is a full-service provider of top-quality commercial janitorial and maintenance services for business environments. Our professional floor care offerings include carpet cleaning services that use “green” products that meet current safety standards.
We provide daily vacuuming, detailed spot removal, and other services that prevent damage, limit germs, and maintain the carpet’s appearance. Our team of professionals is well-equipped for periodic or annual shampoo and extraction services, which include low moisture and dry options.
We look forward to speaking with you!
