The stages of a commercial carpet cleaning

Create a budget – Whether you are asking for commercial carpet cleaning for an office, school or hotel space, or a retail store. There is a range of “carpet cleaning” processes from freshen-up jobs at one end to deep-cleans that lift out embedded dirt and odours.

Here is an insight into what is typically in a professional cleaning of commercial carpet, and how this affects the outcome and drying time.

1) Site walk-through and assessment

Reputable cleaners will begin by reviewing:

Carpet type: Tiles, loop pile or cut pile

High-traffic areas and visible staining

Access, parking, water/electric availability

All limitations (outside of hours work, security systems, alarms)

This is also when they will identify the most appropriate cleaning method for your type of flooring and level of soiling.

2) Pre-Vacuuming

A fine layer of dust, grit and crumbs that have been ground into your carpets is a major contributor to the overall tired look. They are also able to remove loose debris, which will only make the wet-cleaning step that much more efficient in getting rid of embedded dirt.

In busy commercial areas, this could dramatically change the final appearance.

3) Pre-treatment and spot treatment

The cleaners usually spray a pre-spray or detergent, which will break down the oils and traffic marks before doing a full clean. They might even treat certain types of stains (coffee, foodstains and ink) individually.

Some stains are difficult to erase, especially when they’ve been “set” in by heat or multiple bouts of DIY spot cleaning.

4) Agitation (working the solution into the fibres)

Agitation is using a brush or machine to scrub the pre-treatment into the carpet. It aids in removing dirt from the fibres and also helps with uniformity when cleaning large areas.

5) Extraction or low-moisture cleaning

Steam cleaning (hot water extraction): Pressurised hot water, which is rinsed and extracted in the same process.

Low-moisture/encapsulation: employs very little water and is best for rapid turnaround times in offices and retail.

The method will depend on the type of carpet you have, footfall and the time your contractor has available. A good contractor will choose wisely. For Commercial Carpet Cleaners Stroud, visit //intocleaning.co.uk/contract-cleaning-services/commercial-carpet-cleaners/stroud/

6) How long before it dries

Low-moisture methods: often 1-3 hours

Hot water extraction: 4-8 hours (winter may be more)

Drying is influenced by airflow, heat, humidity and degree of soiling; air movers are used to help drying.

7) Final Examination and Care Instructions

At the end of a professional cleaning, there should be an inspection followed by information on:

When the carpeting is safe to walk on again

When to replace furniture

Dealing with a few leftover spots.