Maintaining a clean office environment significantly enhances both the aesthetic appeal of a building and the morale of its workers. A critical yet often overlooked aspect of building maintenance is the deep cleaning of carpeted flooring. Over time, allergens and dust accumulate in carpet fibers, shortening the product's lifespan and increasing health risks for office workers. Regular vacuuming can not remove this build-up, so addressing the issue separately can present numerous benefits to an organization.
The most effective method for removing buildup in heavily soiled carpets is 'hot water extraction'. This process uses specialized machinery, powered by a truck, to agitate carpet fibers and dislodge hard-to-reach debris that has accumulated over time. The dislodged debris is then extracted using a combination of hot water and high-powered suction or extraction. This eliminates stubborn stains and improves indoor air quality by removing dust, allergens, and pollutants.
Another method of carpet deep cleaning is 'encapsulation'. Encapsulation involves applying a specialized solution to the carpet. Once worked into the fibers, the solution encapsulates dirt particles, allowing them to be removed via vacuuming. While encapsulation is not as effective at removing deep-seated debris as carpet extraction, it has its own unique advantages. Encapsulation is a cheaper method, as the process is faster and doesn't involve high-powered machinery. Additionally, encapsulation has a shorter turnaround time since the carpet doesn't get as wet as it does with extraction.
You might be wondering, should you extract or encapsulate? The answer depends on various factors, such as the desired level of cleanliness, budget, the current condition of the carpet, and whether the extractor can reach the areas in question. However, as a general guideline, if a heavy deep clean is needed, extraction is more effective at removing hard-to-reach soil buildup. If more frequent and routine maintenance is the goal, encapsulation may be sufficient to keep the carpet in good condition.
To summarize, The Carpet and Rug Institute lists these steps for Carpet Care:
1.) Vacuum regularly and make sure high-traffic areas are getting done.
2.) Clean spots and spills quickly.
3.) Professionally deep clean your carpets at least every 12-18 months.
4.) Stop dirt at the door by using mats outside of the entrance doors and immediately inside any entrance door.