Professional Carpet Cleaning Methods
By Steve Hanson

Besides general cleaning, having their carpets professionally cleaned is one of the services your customers will probably ask for most often. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) states that the overall objective of carpet cleaning is to remove soil. This helps extend the life of the carpet and, of course, makes the whole building look cleaner. There are four primary cleaning methods: absorbent compound method; bonnet cleaning method; hot water extraction method; and dry foam cleaning method. The particular carpet cleaning method you select will be determined on the type of carpet, the carpet's use, and the condition of the carpet.

Absorbent Compound Method:

This method is sometimes called the "dry cleaning method" as almost no water is used. After vacuuming thoroughly, distribute a dry absorbent compound (which contains small amounts of water, detergent and solvent) uniformly over the carpet and work it into the carpet with a machine. The cleaner attracts and absorbs the soil. Then use the machine to agitate the compound through the carpet.

When the carpet is dry, vacuum thoroughly to ensure you remove the compound from the carpet. You should use a vacuum with a high efficiency filtering system. This cleaning method has a fast drying time -- only 30 to 60 minutes.

Bonnet Cleaning Method: