more on the cleaning process
HOW DO WE GET YOUR CARPETS &
UPHOLSTERY
SQUEAKY CLEAN®?
We make use of the very efficient HOT WATER EXTRACTION PROCESS (more commonly known as STEAM Cleaning) in conjunction with an alkaline based chemical pre-spray* to break down the dirt and emulsify all fats and oils. Then, using our Sapphire Scientific Portable Extractor Cleaning Machines containing hot water combined with an acid detergent is then sprayed under pressure (200-500lbs/square inch) into the carpet fibers and immediately extracted via the efficient 2 stage double vacuum system the Cleaning Machines offer as a standard feature. The acid detergent will neutralize the alkaline detergents, leaving the fibers literally squeaky clean®. Our Machines have built in water heaters: In the event of your hot water supply failing, hot water cleans best and allows soft furnishings to dry quicker.
*Woolsafe products are used for pure wool or more delicate fibers.
Most cleaners will have no pre-spray system combined with an acid neutralizer; they will instead mix the alkaline detergent directly into the water in the machine. This, over time, results in a build-up of alkaline detergent on the soft furnishing fibers, causing the pH balance to be totally disturbed. When the latter happens, the carpet or upholstery will become stickier with every cleaning operation, resulting in faster soiling and shorter fiber life.
what you should expect
Preparation
We ask that our customers ensure that no clothing, toys etc. are left on the flooring to be cleaned. The rest is up to us!
Pre-Treatment
When our technician arrives, he will ask that you point out any areas of concern, and we can apply specific stain removers for any pet stains, wine or coffee spills etc. He will then apply our pre-spray on all surfaces, which will sit for approximately 10-15 minutes while he sets up the rest of his equipment. He then agitates the pre-spray into the carpet with a carpet rake, which helps loosen any dirt/debris.
Clean
Hot water extraction is now applied with our 6 jet Evolution wand, thoroughly flushing out your carpets and upholstery, leaving you with a fresh clean, residue free surface.
Dry
Once complete, our technician will do a post clean walk through with our client, to ensure complete satisfaction. Your carpets and upholstery should be left damp to the touch. Typical dry time is anywhere between 4-12 hours, depending on the heat and airflow of your home. (If you wish to speed the drying process, you can turn up the heat in your home, as well as place fans.) If you need to walk on your still damp carpets, we suggest wearing clean shoes or slippers.
Carpet Cleaning Facts
- Duration of dry time is typically 4-12 hrs depending on air flow and temperature of home – To speed dry time, we suggest open windows (if applicable), use fans or turn up the heat in home.
- Carpets and upholstery are the second largest filters in your home, next to your furnace and ducts. They trap dead skin cells, dust mites, animal dander etc. Carpet manufacturers and respiratory specialists recommend hot water extraction for carpet and upholstery cleaning every 12-18 months to create a healthier indoor environment.
- Certain spot cleaners on the market can inadvertently do permanent damage due to high PH levels and residue left behind, so Optimax suggests a 50% water/ 50% vinegar mix in a spray bottle as a safe at home cleaning agent.
- Most carpets and upholstery come from factory with Scotch Guard protection on them, that wear off over time, and should be re-applied. Benefits of scotch guard are that carpets and upholstery stay cleaner 2-3 times longer, obtain less wear and tear, prolonging the life of the carpet and upholstery, makes the vacuum more efficient, spills are easier to clean.
- Did you know that using home based carpet stain removers can do more harm than good?
- Saturating carpet with cleaner, will often times leave behind a residue that attracts dirt.
- Rubbing too much can push the stain deeper into the carpet and untwist the fibres.
- It may be tempting to flood the carpet to rinse it, but it’s best not to. Oversaturating is not only damaging to your carpet, but to the pad and flooring below.
- Most times, it is better to entrust your stains to the professionals.
- Did you know that steam clean rental machines that you can rent from places like Sobeys or Home Depot can actually do more harm than good??
- When you rent a carpet cleaning machine, there is no guarantee that it has been properly sanitized between rentals, and you could be tracking contaminants and bacteria from previous users into your own home!