Cleaning of Wool Carpets
When it comes to the cleaning of wool carpets there are many items of concern. Many more than those carpets made of the latest synthetic fibers.
The first concern is using cleaners that are safe to use on wool fibers. Most cleaners today are designed to be used on synthetic fibers and are much too strong for wool. To strong means that the ph level is too high and can cause a chemical burn on natural fibers. Some people think if the cleaners are too strong, they can just water it down but today’s cleaners have buffered agents which are added to cleaners so the cleaners will maintain that high ph level regardless of dilution. When using cleaners that are designed for wool fibers, you need to realize the strength is less so you can compensate by increasing the dwell time the cleaners are in contact with the fibers.
Another concern is the equipment used to clean wool carpet. Today’s younger inexperienced cleaning professionals think stronger, bigger and more powerful is best. That could not be further from the truth. Much of today’s equipment is capable of producing extreme heat as well as pressure. Heat can create an effective boost in the clean ability of a carpet but too much heat can and will have a detrimental effect on both the cleaner’s efficiency and the fibers as well as the possibility of setting stains. The pressure can also be an important part, but one must consider the weight and depth of the surface yarns and be careful not to employ too much pressure which would result in over wetting the carpet and it backing.
Again, beyond the wool face yarns one needs to consider first if there are other fibers such as silk or linen which often will accompany wool. The other concern would be in both the primary or secondary backing and the fact that most wool carpets will have both cotton and jute fibers in the backing. Both these fibers can create problems if they get wet.
With over 50 years experience in the carpet cleaning business, Alec’s Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning LLC has both the experience and knowledge on how to safely get the best possible results in cleaning those custom wool and other high end rugs. Call us today to schedule your cleaning needs at 781-871-4428
As always, keep informed, read our carpet cleaning main page at http://alecscarpetcleaning.com/carpet.
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