Carpet cleaning can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not familiar with the terminology and techniques used in the industry. To help you better understand the carpet cleaning process, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of 50 carpet cleaning terms and definitions that every homeowner should know. From alkaline solutions to zonal cleaning, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know to keep your carpets clean and looking their best. So, whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or a first-time carpet cleaner, read on to learn more about the world of carpet cleaning.
Absorbent compound: A cleaning product made of a mixture of solvents, detergents, and other materials that is sprinkled onto carpets and then vacuumed up to remove dirt and stains.
Agitation: A process of scrubbing or brushing carpet fibers to loosen dirt and debris for easier removal during the cleaning process.
Alkaline: A cleaning solution with a pH level of more than 7, typically used to dissolve greasy and oily soils.
Bonnet cleaning: A low-moisture cleaning method that involves using a rotary machine with a cleaning pad or bonnet to agitate and remove dirt from carpet fibers.
Carpet extractor: A machine used for deep cleaning carpets that sprays water and cleaning solution onto the carpet and then extracts the solution and dirt using a vacuum.
Carpet protector: A solution applied to carpets after cleaning to repel dirt and stains and extend the life of the carpet.
Carpet shampooing: A cleaning method that involves applying a shampoo to carpets, agitating the solution with a machine, and then removing the solution with a wet vacuum.
Cleaning solution: A liquid solution used to clean carpets that is typically a mixture of water, detergents, and other cleaning agents.
Deodorizer: A product used to neutralize or eliminate unpleasant odors from carpets.
Dry cleaning: A low-moisture cleaning method that involves applying a dry cleaning solution to carpets and then vacuuming up the solution along with dirt and stains.
Dry soil: Loose soil and debris that accumulates on carpets, making them appear dirty and dull.
Dwell time: The length of time a cleaning solution is left on carpets before being extracted or rinsed.
Encapsulation: A low-moisture cleaning method that involves applying a cleaning solution that forms a crystallizing residue around dirt and stains, which can be easily vacuumed up.
Extraction: A process of removing dirt, stains, and cleaning solution from carpets using a vacuum or extractor machine.
Fiber: The material that makes up carpet, such as nylon, polyester, wool, or other synthetic or natural fibers.
Fringe: The decorative edge of a carpet that may be prone to damage during cleaning.
Hot water extraction: A deep cleaning method that uses hot water and cleaning solution to extract dirt and stains from carpets.
In-plant cleaning: A process of cleaning carpets at a specialized cleaning facility, where carpets can be thoroughly cleaned and dried.
Interim cleaning: A light cleaning process that is performed between regular deep cleanings to remove surface dirt and stains.
Interim maintenance: The regular cleaning and maintenance of carpets to prevent the buildup of dirt and stains.
Odor removal: The process of removing unpleasant odors from carpets using specialized cleaning solutions and techniques.
pH level: A measurement of the acidity or alkalinity of a substance, with a pH of 7 considered neutral.
Preconditioner: A cleaning solution applied to carpets before cleaning to help loosen dirt and stains.
Pre-spotting: A process of treating individual stains on carpets before cleaning to help remove the stain.
Protector: A product applied to carpets after cleaning to help repel dirt and stains and extend the life of the carpet.
Residue: A cleaning solution that is left behind on carpets after cleaning, which can attract dirt and make carpets appear dull.
Re-stretching: The process of re-tightening loose or buckled carpets to restore their appearance.
Restorative cleaning: A deep cleaning process that is used to restore heavily soiled carpets to their original condition.
Rotary machine: A cleaning machine that uses spinning brushes or pads to agitate carpets and remove dirt and stains.
Shampoo: A cleaning solution used to clean carpets that typically includes detergents and other cleaning agents.
Scotchgard: A brand of carpet protector that helps repel stains and prolong the life of carpets. Traffic lane cleaner: A specialized cleaning solution designed to remove dirt and stains from high-traffic areas of carpets.
Soil: Dirt, dust, and other debris that accumulates on carpets and makes them appear dirty.
Spot cleaning: A process of removing individual stains from carpets using specialized cleaning solutions and techniques.
Spotting agents: Cleaning products specifically designed for removing particular types of stains from carpets.
Steam cleaning: A deep cleaning method that uses hot water and steam to extract dirt and stains from carpets.
Stain: A mark or discoloration on carpets caused by spilled liquids or other substances.
Stain protector: A product applied to carpets after cleaning to help repel future stains.
Static electricity: The buildup of electrical charge on carpet fibers, which can cause them to attract dirt and dust.
Synthetic fibers: Man-made fibers used in carpets, such as nylon, polyester, and olefin.
Traffic areas: The parts of carpets that receive the most foot traffic, and are typically the dirtiest and most worn.
Truck-mounted cleaning: A deep cleaning method that uses a powerful cleaning machine mounted in a truck to extract dirt and stains from carpets.
Upholstery: The fabric covering on furniture, which may also require cleaning.
Vacuuming: The process of removing loose soil and debris from carpets using a vacuum cleaner.
Wand: A tool used with an extractor machine to apply cleaning solution and extract dirt and stains from carpets.
Water extraction: The process of removing excess water from carpets after cleaning to ensure proper drying and prevent mold and mildew growth.
Water hardness: The level of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, in the water used for cleaning carpets, which can affect the effectiveness of cleaning solutions.
Wool fibers: Natural fibers used in carpets, which require specialized cleaning to avoid damage.
Zonal cleaning: A process of dividing carpets into zones and cleaning each zone separately to ensure thorough cleaning.
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No matter where you are in the Greater Austin area, K&M Steam Cleaning is there to serve you. We specialize in Carpet Cleaning in East Austin, Carpet Cleaning in Jarrell, Carpet Cleaning in Jollyville, Carpet Cleaning in Jonestown, Carpet Cleaning in Manchaca, Carpet Cleaning in Manor, Carpet Cleaning in Oak Hill, Carpet Cleaning in Onion Creek, Carpet Cleaning in Point Venture, Carpet Cleaning in San Leanna, Carpet Cleaning in Barton Creek, Carpet Cleaning in Briarcliff, Carpet Cleaning in Buda, Carpet Cleaning in Cedar Park, Carpet Cleaning in Del Valle, Carpet Cleaning in Downtown Austin, Carpet Cleaning in Driftwood, Carpet Cleaning in Dripping Springs, Carpet Cleaning in Hutto, Carpet Cleaning in Kyle, Carpet Cleaning in Lago Vista, Carpet Cleaning in Lakeway, Carpet in Cleaning Leander, Carpet Cleaning in Liberty Hill, Carpet Cleaning in North Austin, Carpet Cleaning in Pflugerville, Carpet Cleaning in Rollingwood, Carpet Cleaning in Round Rock, Carpet Cleaning in South Austin, Carpet Cleaning in Spicewood, Carpet Cleaning in Steiner Ranch, Carpet Cleaning in Sunset Valley, Carpet Cleaning in Taylor, Carpet Cleaning in Volente, and Carpet Cleaning in West Lake Hills.
