How to Learn Carpet Cleaning

Carpets need to cleaned with proper chemicals and procedures.

Whether you are a homeowner trying to save a few dollars, an entrepreneur looking to make a few extra bucks or a maintenance manager starting an in-house carpet-cleaning division, the process of learning carpet cleaning is the same. You will need to familiarize yourself with different cleaning methods, the chemistry involved and the procedures that consistently deliver clean carpets. A visit to a carpet-cleaning or janitorial supply house will aid in educating yourself about the industry.

Things You'll Need

• Internet access
• Janitorial supply house

Instructions

1. Visit a local carpet-cleaning supplier or janitorial warehouse. Suppliers are very willing to give tours of their warehouses and will invite you to check out the new equipment in the showroom. A salesman will gladly answer all of your questions, even if you are only "window shopping."

2. Compare the different kinds of carpet-cleaning methods and machinery. By visiting a showroom, you will gain firsthand knowledge of the difference between a hot water extractor used to steam-clean carpets versus a standard floor buffing machine used to deep-shampoo carpets. With the proper attachments, buffing machines can be used for low-moisture, quick-dry bonnet cleaning.

3. Differentiate the cleaning chemicals for each method. For example, defoamer is a chemical only used to eliminate foam buildup in extraction equipment recovery tanks; it has no use with other methods. Some chemicals, such as deodorizers, can be mixed with any water-based cleaning solution.
   Knowing cleaning chemicals' pH will aid in choosing the right cleaner for the job, as certain stains, such as rust, respond better to low pH cleaners. Others, such as grease, can be cleaned better with an alkaline cleaner.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose a supplier to visit that offers equipment for more than one kind of carpet-cleaning method, or visit multiple suppliers.

• Reputable suppliers often host carpet-cleaning classes. Look for one that offers a certification from a nationally known entity, such as the IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) or CRI (Carpet and Rug Institute).

• Avoid a supplier whose owner is more interested in selling you a machine than helping you learn about the industry.

References

• CleanFreak: Understanding pH
• ETC Pads: Bonnet Cleaning
• Jon-Don Inc.: Carpet Cleaning Methods

Resources

• Institute for Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification
• Carpet and Rug Institute