Different Types of Cleaning Solutions

<< Click to Display Table of Contents >>

Navigation:  Developing a Maintenance Program > Spots, Spills, and Stains >

Different Types of Cleaning Solutions

Dry Absorbent/Adsorbent Compound- a spot cleaning method consisting of absorbent/adsorbent compound along with dry clean fluids, detergents, and/or other cleaner solutions. The use of dry compounds may be helpful when addressing wicking.

 

Volatile Solvent – A fast evaporating dry cleaning fluid. Exercise caution when using a solvent. A nonflammable spot removal solution is preferred. Never pour a volatile cleaning solvent directly onto the carpet. Volatile cleaning solvents will destroy the latex that holds the carpet components together.

 

Non-volatile Solvents – Referred to as paint, oil, and grease removers. This type of cleaning solvent evaporates slower for more effective cleaning. Non-volatile solvents can leave residues that may cause rapid soiling. When using a non-volatile remover, always rinse the area thoroughly with a volatile solvent or use a dry adsorbent compound to adsorb residue.  

 

Detergent Solution – Use SOA-certified Cleaning Solutions. Find them at www.carpet-rug.org.

 

NOTE: Small portable extraction machines designed for spot cleaning are also very effective.

 

Warm Water Rinse – Use lukewarm tap water in most cases to rinse the spotting agent from the fiber. Failure to completely rinse the solutions from the fiber may cause accelerated soiling, also wicking will occur if the contaminate is not totally removed.

 

Spot Removal Kit – Available from most carpet retail stores and professional carpet cleaning suppliers. Follow directions closely! Some spot removals kits contain a detergent solution and a stain-resist solution. Use of the stain resist solution prior to the complete removal of the spill may cause a permanent stain. Other spot removal kits may have dry absorbent cleaning products for fast spot removal. It is suggested that a professional spotting kit be purchased.

 

Spot Removal Residue Precautions

Your cleaning agent selection is important, it is even more important to remove what you put into the carpet. A spot cleaners' ability to bind to particles of soil and oil is what makes cleaning happen. However, the detergent residue continues to attract and hold soil even after drying. Increasing the amount of detergent beyond the recommended level does not increase cleaning performance but makes the complete removal of detergent more difficult. A small, portable extractor is recommended for efficient rinsing and spot removal or use an adsorbent compound to remove the spot and any residue. A solution of one cup white vinegar (5% acetic acid solution) to one cup water can be used to remove heavy detergent residue.

 

Remember: Never use any of the solutions in concentrations stronger than those recommended.

 

Avoid Overwetting – Prolonged dampness may cause discoloration, or cause separation of the backing. This can be controlled by a combination of proper equipment use and operator training.