(530) 878-7782

Don & Debbie Ales
Owner Operators

(916) 786-2275

Frequently Asked Questions:
What do the experts say?

1.        Why should I clean my carpet?

2.        What is the best method for cleaning your carpets?

3.        How often should you clean your carpets?

1.        Why should I clean my carpet?

Carpet is a very efficient pollution collector.  The variety of contaminants found in carpet
is vast:  accumulated motor oil, acids, carbon black, asphalt residue, lawn fertilizer,
residue from industrial gases, insecticides, herbicides and fungicides.  To these
pollutants, we must add great quantities of natural waste:  oils from cooling vapors, food
crumbs, beverage spills, hair, dead skin cells, dead insects, insect excretions, pet
excretions, human and pet regurgitation – all providing food sources for harmful
microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, fungi, dust mites, mold).

Ignorant of the dangers, people live day after day, year after year in the midst of these
contaminants. In terms of quantity, perhaps the filth tracked onto carpets from streets
and parking lots constitutes the greatest threat. Research reveals that animal dander
and excretions, viruses, bacteria fungi, pollen and dust mites – all found in carpet soils –
have been linked to rhinitis, sinusitis, otitis, conjunctivitis, pneumonia, asthma, alveolitis,
dermatitis, eczema, urticaria and mycotoxicosis, according to the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA).

The Cleaning & Restoration Certification (IICRC) guide, addresses the issue of
why carpet continues to get a bad rap in regards to IAQ (indoor air quality):

“I think there is a misperception about carpet because people find it harder to clean it
themselves, although, when you think about it, carpet is far easier and less expensive to
‘maintain’ than hard surfaces when you factor in the consumer’s time,” said Bishop.  
“Typically, since carpet is so forgiving, daily maintenance is put off or done quickly and
professional cleaning is put off entirely or as long as possible.”

“By the time the end user gets to the crises stage, their neglect has created a
nightmare.  Rather than take responsibility for this situation themselves, they find it
easier to blame the product.  That creates a real tough educational dilemma for the
cleaner individually and for the industry in general.”  

“The reality is that carpet traps and holds much of the airborne contamination that
causes problems for occupants.  However, proper vacuuming with proper equipment
that’s properly filtered can prevent those contaminants from building to unacceptable
levels.  That, combined with regular professional cleaning to extract soils that can’t be
removed with vacuuming, creates a serviceable and healthy environment for anyone.”

Most people spend over 90% of their time indoors.  Isn’t the quality and healthiness of
the indoor environment important to you?

2.        What is the best method for cleaning your carpets?

“Ground in soil can only be removed by professionals with high powered equipment.  
Choose a professional who uses van-mounted “steam” extraction units.  These
cleaners are usually more efficient, deliver a higher degree of soil removal, and
reduce drying time.” - World Carpets-Care Cleaning Guide

“We recommend the hot water extraction system, which research indicates provides
the best capability for cleaning.” - Shaw industries, Manufacturers of Philadelphia
Commercial Carpets, Stratton Commercial Carpets, Shaw Commercial Carpets, E
& B Carpets, Cabin Craft Carpets, Shawmark Carpets

“To refresh carpet texture, a process commonly known as hot water extraction,
performed by a trained, qualified carpet care professional is required at least every 18
months.” - DuPont Stainmaster XTRA Life Warranty

“The steam extraction cleaning method does excellent cleaning, does not cause pile
distortion or flaring, and the built-in vacuum removes soil.  There is no residue of
shampoo to collect more dirt and this method provides excellent pile restoration.” -
Allied Fibers (manufacturer of ANSO IV Nylon) Carpet Maintenance Guide

3.        How often should you clean your carpets?

“How often you’ll need professional cleaning depends on soil buildup, traffic, type and
color of carpeting.  A good rule-of-thumb would be to professionally clean your carpet
every eighteen months.” - DuPont Complete Book of Carpeting

“Carpets should be cleaned by professionals every one to three years, depending
upon the color or shade, the amount of soil, and the degree of soiling.” - World
Carpets Care and Cleaning Guide

“Normal Maintenance – Steam Cleaning:  The steam cleaning method is recommended
every six months (commercial carpets); for heavy traffic, every three months.” - Vectra
Corporation (olefin fiber)

“How often a carpet should be cleaned depends upon a number of variables – amount
and type of soiling, color and style of the carpeting, number and types of pets, the
number and age of children, the number and health of the building occupants, and the
life-styles of the inhabitants.  As a general rule, carpets should be cleaned between
every six to eighteen months, and the intervals should never exceed three years.” -
Steam Way Technical Services Department

Created by:
Randi, Nick, Scott, &
Krysta

Last updated:
Sat May 1st 2004

Thank you for visiting our website, we appreciate your .bizness.
info@sierrasteamway.biz