PR 38076t                                                                                        
25 July 2016

Cleaning carpets in commercial environments effectively

By Justin Binks, director of SEBO UK.

Pictured left is Justin Binks, Director of SEBO UK. Pictured right is a SEBO Felix Vogue Eco upright vacuum cleaner.

Aesthetics and comfort are likely to rank high on the agenda when selecting floorcoverings for commercial installations. Nevertheless, these are not the only considerations. Maintenance and long-term performance will almost certainly be seen as key issues when it comes to determining the final specification, especially when sustainability and whole life costs are brought into the equation.

Considerable controversy exists over whether smooth floors or carpets are the most easy maintenance option. In reality both have their place but, with a good cleaning regime, carpet will retain its appearance and be as hygienic as any other flooring material since it holds the dust, grime and associated bacteria in place, rather than that allowing it to float into the air to be inhaled. From the health and safety perspective, carpet is soft should falls occur, and non-slip even when liquid is spilt. It also offers comfort underfoot and is an inherently sound absorbent material so is ideal where acoustics are an issue.

With a good upright vacuum cleaner, carpet maintenance is very easy. Models with strong suction and driven brushes are the most effective for carpets as they groom and lift the pile and remove dirt far more effectively than cylinder cleaners. A variety of height settings on good quality upright vacuum cleaners allows adjustment to different pile heights and constructions. On certain models, an electronic guide for brush height ensures optimum cleaning results and a longer brush life.

A well designed upright vacuum cleaner offers the benefits of manoeuvrability, controllability and overall ease of use. Uprights offer a very high level of productivity and can clean a carpeted floor rapidly and, as the brush roller agitates the pile, thoroughly. If the upright is used in a systematic way, such as overlapping one pass sweeps, the floor area is cleaned quickly and efficiently, saving considerably on time-related costs.

Commercial cleaning is a regular task that must be conducted to the highest standards. Any cleaning regime will depend on the usage of particular areas and should take account of the fact that, when carpet is walked on, any dirt or grit trapped in the pile will be crush against the fibres causing premature wear. This is a particular problem at entrances and other heavily-used areas so daily vacuuming is advisable in these locations. Entrance mats to protect carpeted areas are always sensible and it is vital that these are regularly vacuumed.

For removing soiling that a vacuum cleaner cannot pick up, carpet cleaning powder (also known as compound) is ideal. This consists of micro-sponges which contain a safe solvent for greasy soiling, a neutral shampoo for non-greasy soiling and an anti re-soilant to delay re-soiling. The powder may be used in conjunction with a brushing machine which works the powder deep into the pile and around every fibre, in the process absorbing soilage. Unlike wet cleaning agents, which result in problems such as carpet shrinkage, adhesive damage, smell and long periods where the area cannot be used due to lengthy drying times, powder is simply vacuumed away leaving the carpet clean, soft and fresh.

All SEBO domestic vacuum cleaners come with a five-year parts and labour guarantee. For further information, please call 01494 465 533 or visitwww.sebo.co.uk.

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With compliments 
Alison Relf  
Taylor Alden Ltd 
Unit 2 Temple Place 
247 The Broadway  
London  
SW19 1SD 
Tel: 020 8543 3866 
Email: alison@tayloralden.co.uk