For most people, the tangible differences between clean carpets and dirty carpets are obvious: dirty carpets look more unkempt and feel grimier. However, there are more menacing consequences that can arise from housing an unclean carpet. We want to highlight some scientific research that has been conducted that shows the measured results of cleaning. When using the correct method, cleaning can reduce the amount of dust, mold, and other allergens. These findings were highlighted in The Journal of Cleaning, Restoration and Inspection’s, (Winter 2017). Find out what cleaning methods work best and how cleaning your carpets on a regular basis can improve your health:
- The Denver Study (1991) researched whether accurate measurements of particulates, gas phase organics, and biological contaminants could be obtained before, during, and after cleaning. It suggested that water extraction is the best method of reducing these levels which were highest during the “before” and “during” phases. It also provided scientific backing to the idea that proper carpet cleaning is necessary to improve internal air quality. The Frank Porter Graham Child Development Center Study, conducted in 1993-1994, provided further evidence of the benefits of the “maximum extraction and minimum residue” method. This test measured dust, volatile organic compounds, bacteria, and fungi.
- The Charles Young School Study (2001) researched the effects of carpet cleaning on the health and performance of students and staff. Other factors that were measured include sanitation, air quality, noise, temperature, color, and climate. The study suggested that when students have a clean environment their attitudes and performance improve.
- The Anderson Creek School Study (2001-2002) found that after carpet cleaning, endotoxins, glucan, and cockroach antigen was reduced, yet the amount of dust mass, dust mite, cat allergens, and fungi were unchanged. This demonstrates how many pollutants carpets hold and how important their proper extraction cleaning is.
- The Air Quality Sciences Study of Carpet Cleaning (1999) took carpets that were improperly maintained from a high humidity/temperature environment and placed them into a normal environment. Once the carpets were cleaned, they displayed similar levels of bio contaminants and airborne particles as that of the control group (clean carpets).
- In 2001, scientists conducted the HydroLabs Mold Study. This experiment found that when carpets are cleaned via the hot water extracting method, they wouldn’t produce mold even when placed in hot temperature and high humidity environments.
These studies make it clear that having a proper carpet cleaning process in place is crucial to maintaining a cleanly environment. Not only is it necessary to vacuum, but hot water extraction cleaning must be performed as well to ensure contaminants are eliminated. A properly maintained environment will produce more healthy and better performing employees and guests. If you’re interested in learning more about how ServiceMaster TBS can help with your commercial carpet cleaning, give us a call today!
