The four cleaning factors
Reducing one factor means relying more on others. The final step — rinsing and extraction — removes soil and solution.
| Factor | Role |
|---|---|
| Time | Lets pre-treatment break down soil |
| Temperature | Heat speeds chemical action and loosens oily soil |
| Agitation | Mechanically loosens soil from fibers |
| Chemistry | Matched to soil and fiber type |
Industry standards
The IICRC publishes the S100 standard for professional cleaning of textile floor coverings, which describes hot-water extraction among cleaning methods. Many carpet manufacturers specify extraction for warranty cleaning; CRI tests extraction equipment through its Seal of Approval.
Suitability
- Most synthetic wall-to-wall carpet: well suited.
- Wool: suitable with appropriate chemistry and temperature.
- Delicate natural fibers and some rugs: specialist care.
Related
See truck-mounted cleaning, cleaning methods compared and carpet cleaning.
