A 1999 Mayo Clinic study attributed nearly all the chronic sinus infections afflicting nearly 37 million people to mold. Recent studies have also linked molds as a contributing factor in the tripling of the asthma rate over the past two decades. Mold thrives and grows in warm humid areas of our homes, including damp basements,…
Proper vacuuming is contingent to proper airflow and agitation – the key ingredients when it comes to selecting a proper vacuum for your home or office carpet. Maximizing airflow is a function of the motor, which should be a bypass motor (dirt and debris do not pass directly through the motor). Look for a motor…
There are two causes for dull or dingy carpet: Carpet soils contain huge amounts of grit. Grit is a microscopic rock with many sharp, jagged cutting edges. Walking on soiled carpeting has a sandpaper-like affect on the fibers. The grit gouges and scratches the yarn’s smooth, polished finish. This sand paper effect can also be…
In the furniture industry Microfiber was initially introduced with two names; micro-suede and ultra-suede™. As the names suggest, you could buy the look of suede or leather without the high cost. Microfiber is made using a variety of fiber types and is used in a multitude of products but when it comes to furniture the…
Five years ago we bought a very expensive sofa and love-seat – in hindsight we probably shouldn’t have bought white upholstery. We now have 2 kids and a dog. Needless to say but the fabric is no longer white. In my infinite wisdom I decided to borrow a home steam cleaner from my neighbor and clean…
I see TV commercials for home carpet cleaning machines; with 3 kids and 2 dogs my carpets really take a beating. My husband says we should buy one to keep our carpets clean. Do they really work that well? Carpet cleaning machines sold on TV can do a fair job; but I consider them more…
Our upholstery has gotten quite soiled from everyday use. I noticed that they have zippers on them. Is it okay to take the cushion covers off and wash them in the washing machine? Cushions are made with zippers for ease of manufacture and to ensure proper fabric tension once stuffed with foam. Upholstered fabric is…
Why would I need carpet protectant applied to a stain resistant carpet? Our carpeting was brand new about 3 years ago. We purchased a stain resistant carpet and have followed the manufacturers’ guidelines and had the carpet cleaned annually to maintain our warranty. However each time the carpets were cleaned the technician asked me if…
Shaw and Mohawk (the two largest carpet manufacturers altered their carpet warranties by stating: “Effective January 1, 2008 the company will require the use of IICRC Certified Firms for all professional cleaning services.” Additionally cleaning companies must also be compliant with and approved by the CRI/SOA (Carpet & Rug Institute / Seal of Approval) with…