Author: Doug Brown

Whether you are a seasoned professional or new to carpet cleaning, understanding the terms and techniques for carpet cleaning is important. That’s why we are dedicating this blog to Carpet Cleaning 101. Keep reading to learn more.

Blooming

Blooming occurs when carpet fibers untwist. Blooming occurs for several reasons, including improper heat setting or cleaning, maintenance techniques and general wear and tear.

Carpet Tiles

Carpet tiles are actually squares, unlike wall-to-wall. They are most often found in commercial settings. They are very durable, which makes them a good fit for commercial environments.

Carpet tiles can be solid in color, textured or patterned. They can be removed for individual spot cleaning and/or repairs.

Crushing

Also known as “matting,” crushing occurs when fibers become bent and compressed. Eventually, all carpet will show signs of crushing. But it can be slowed by establishing a regular maintenance program, using firm padding below the carpet and frequently rearranging furniture to redirect traffic patterns.

Denier

Denier refers to the total amount of yarn per carpet area; carpets with more denier have a higher yarn count.

Face Weight

Similar to denier, face weight plays a role in carpet performance and durability. Face weight is defined as the total weight of fibers per square yard of carpet. When measuring face weight, backing is not included.

Fibers

Fibers are the basic material of which carpet is made. Most carpet manufactured today is made of synthetic fibers (i.e. nylon, olefin, polyester). Other types of carpet are made from natural fibers, including wool, cotton, silk and bamboo.

Fray

As a result of high-traffic, wear and tear and improper cleaning methods, carpet fibers can fray. When fraying occurs, the carpet fibers become damaged, expand and change texture.

Padding

Padding is the layer of cushion that is installed between the carpet and floor board. Padding is essential in prolonging carpet life, appearance and quality.

Pile

Pile is the visible portion of carpet fibers. There are several different types and styles of piles, including cut pile and loop pile.

Pile Reversal

Pile reversal or shading occurs when high-traffic activity bends the carpet fibers in various directions. It is highly common in hallway coners and doorways and directly results in the creation of a discolored impression.

Resilience

Resilience is a carpet’s ability to resist crushing/matting. Type of fiber, padding, backing and other characteristics qualify the amount of resilience a piece of carpeting has.

Rippling

Rippling is the consequence of excessive heat and humidity. It causes wave-like or ruffled patterns that appear on wall-to-wall carpeting. Re-stretching carpet can resolve rippling.

Seam

The line where two pieces of carpet intersect is is the seam. Since most carpet is produced in 12-foot wide rolls, it’s nearly impossible to avoid seams.

Shedding

Post-installation, new carpet has a tendency to shed fibers for several weeks. While shedding is more common in cut pile and wool carpets, it is still a minor issue for synthetic fiber carpets. Regular vacuuming is the best method for resolving a shedding issue.

Soiling

When dirt particles and grime build up in carpet fibers, soiling occurs. Regular professional cleaning can prevent soiling from occurring.

Tufting

Tufting is the first step in the carpet manufacturing process. It is the loop (cut or uncut) of pile.

These terms make up Carpet Cleaning 101. If you need help with any of these carpet concerns, check out our supplies and tools.

As a professional carpet cleaner, you’ve probably seen every stain imaginable. You’ve likely picked up a few professional carpet cleaning tips as well. Because we’ve been in the carpet cleaning business for years, we’ve amassed a lot of experience, including things that have worked and not worked. We decided to share these with you, tips for experts from experts.

Blot Never Rub

With the toughest stains, blotting is always the preferred method. Rubbing can ground the stain in further and spread it. Before using any equipment, use a cloth with a small amount of cleaner to blot from the outside inward. This is the best way to control and minimize the stain.

Countering Over-Shampooing

Over-shampooing occurs when either too much shampoo is used or the carpet is not rinsed thoroughly. If you encounter a carpet that has soapy residue build up then it must be rinsed properly before cleaning again. Often this residue can cause the carpet to become a dirt magnet. If you suspect the carpets have been overly shampooed in the past, it’s always wise to ask about past carpet care before beginning a new cleaning.

Rinse Just Enough

If you over wet carpets too much, water will soak into the bottom of the carpet. Backing materials can cause the carpet to lose its coloring if they become too wet. Carpets will actually shrink from over-wetting and pull from the floor. If the backing and pad become too wet, it’s very hard to dry them. You also have the risk of mold and mildew problems.

Removing the Unexpected

Not everything that stains a carpet is a liquid. Sometimes things like gum and wax embed in carpet. There’s a fix for that! For gum, freeze it. Then lift it up, and cut it out. If the piece of gum is small, you shouldn’t be able to tell.

Wax from candles can sometimes end up in carpet. The solution is to reheat it using an iron. Use a paper or cloth towel under the iron. When the wax becomes softened, peel it off with a knife or other tool.

Odor Issues

Odor in carpet can come from people, animals or other lingering smells. Use a water based cleaner. This will encapsulate the odor which minimizes the spread of odor molecules.

These are just a few of the professional carpet cleaning tips we’ve picked up over the years. If you have other questions, feel free to contact us. If you’d like to browse our carpet cleaning products, you can start shopping.