A

Absorbent Compound: A dry cleaning agent in powder form that attracts and absorbs dirt and grime from carpet fibers, which is then vacuumed away.

Absorbent Compound Cleaning: A low-moisture method where an absorbent powder is spread over the carpet to encapsulate soil, followed by thorough vacuuming.

Absorption: The process by which carpet fibers take in liquids, affecting how stains and cleaning solutions penetrate the material.

Adhesive Residue: Sticky substances left on carpets from adhesives like tape or glue, requiring special removal techniques to prevent attracting more dirt.

Agitation: The mechanical action of scrubbing or brushing carpet fibers to loosen embedded soil before extraction.

Alkaline: Refers to cleaning solutions with a pH above 7, effective in breaking down acidic soils such as grease and oils.

Allergen: Substances like dust mites, pollen, or pet dander trapped in carpets that can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Antimicrobial: Agents applied to carpets to inhibit the growth of microorganisms like bacteria, mold, and mildew.

Anti-Soiling Agent: Treatments that reduce a carpet's tendency to attract and hold onto dirt and stains, making maintenance easier.

Antistatic Treatment: A product applied to carpets to minimize static electricity buildup in fibers, enhancing comfort and cleanliness.

Area Rug Shampooing: The specialized process of cleaning area rugs using appropriate shampoos and techniques to preserve their quality.

B

Backing: The underside layer of a carpet that provides structure and stability, holding the pile in place.

Biocide: Chemicals used to eliminate harmful organisms such as bacteria and fungi during the cleaning process.

Biodegradable: Cleaning products that break down naturally without harming the environment, important for eco-friendly practices.

Bleach: A chemical agent used to remove or lighten colors, effective for stain removal but requires cautious use to prevent damage.

Blooming: The untwisting or spreading of carpet fibers, often caused by wear, improper cleaning, or excessive heat.Blower: Equipment that circulates air to speed up the drying process after cleaning, preventing mold and mildew growth.

Bonnet Cleaning: A surface cleaning technique using a rotating machine with an absorbent pad to lift soil from the carpet fibers.

Bristle: The stiff fibers on brushes used for agitating carpets to loosen dirt during cleaning.

Browning: Discoloration that appears as brown spots or areas, usually resulting from over-wetting or improper drying techniques.Build-Up: Accumulated layers of dirt, oils, and cleaning residues on carpet fibers over time, requiring deep cleaning to remove.

Buffer: A machine or chemical solution used to maintain the appropriate pH level during cleaning, enhancing effectiveness.

C

Carpet Cleaning: The process of removing dirt, stains, and allergens from carpets to restore appearance and prolong their lifespan.

Carpet Extractor: A machine that injects cleaning solution into the carpet and vacuums it up along with dissolved soil.Carpet Protector: A treatment applied after cleaning to create a protective barrier against future stains and soiling.

Carpet Shampoo: A formulated cleaning solution designed specifically for breaking down soils in carpets during shampooing.Carpet Shampooing: A method involving the application of carpet shampoo, agitation to loosen dirt, and extraction of the solution.

Carpet Tiles: Modular squares of carpet that can be individually installed and replaced, often used in commercial settings.

Cellulosic Browning: A type of discoloration in carpets made from cellulosic fibers (like jute), often due to excessive moisture.Chemical: Substances used in cleaning agents to dissolve or emulsify soils, essential for effective carpet cleaning.

Cleanser: A general term for cleaning products used to remove dirt and contaminants from surfaces.

Cleaning: The act of removing unwanted substances such as dirt, stains, and allergens from surfaces.

Cleaning Solution: A mixture of water and cleaning agents used during the carpet cleaning process.

Colorfast: The ability of carpet dyes to resist fading or bleeding during cleaning and exposure to light.

Commercial Carpet Cleaning: Professional cleaning services tailored to the needs of commercial spaces like offices and hotels.

Contaminant: Any unwanted substance present in the carpet, including dirt, allergens, and bacteria.

Crushing: The flattening of carpet fibers due to heavy foot traffic or weight, leading to a matted appearance.

D

Debris: Loose particles such as dirt, dust, and hair found on or within the carpet fibers.

Deep Cleaning: An intensive cleaning process that removes deeply embedded soils and contaminants from the carpet pile.

Degreaser: A cleaning agent specifically formulated to break down and remove oily and greasy residues from carpets.

Dehumidifier: A device used to reduce humidity levels in the air, aiding in faster drying of carpets after cleaning.

Denier: A unit of measurement indicating the thickness or fineness of carpet fibers, affecting durability and texture.

Detergent: A cleaning agent containing surfactants that help to emulsify and remove soils from carpet fibers.

Disinfectant: Chemicals used to eliminate or inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms in carpets.

Disposal Filter: A replaceable filter in cleaning equipment that traps extracted soils and contaminants for proper disposal.

Dry Carpet Cleaning: Methods that clean carpets using minimal moisture, such as absorbent compounds or encapsulation.

Dry Cleaning: A carpet cleaning process using solvents instead of water, suitable for delicate or moisture-sensitive carpets.

Dry Foam Carpet Cleaning: A technique where foam is applied to the carpet to encapsulate dirt, which is then vacuumed away.

Dry Soil: Loose, dry particles like dust and sand that can be removed through regular vacuuming.

Dry Solvent Cleaning: Cleaning using solvents that evaporate quickly, leaving the carpet dry and reducing the risk of damage.

Dry Time/Drying Time: The period required for a carpet to become completely dry after the cleaning process.

Dwell Time: The recommended time a cleaning solution should remain on the carpet to effectively break down soils before extraction.

E

Eco-Friendly: Products or practices that minimize environmental impact, often using sustainable or biodegradable materials.

Emergency Cleaning: Rapid-response cleaning services for unexpected situations like spills, floods, or accidents.

Encapsulation: A method where cleaning agents form crystals around dirt particles, which are then removed through vacuuming.

Enzyme Cleaner: Cleaning solutions containing enzymes that break down organic stains like food spills or pet accidents.

Extraction: The process of removing cleaning solutions and dissolved soils from the carpet using suction equipment.

Extraction Carpet Cleaning: Also known as hot water extraction; involves injecting cleaning solution and immediately extracting it along with loosened soils.

F

Face Weight: The weight of the carpet fibers in a given area, indicating density and potential durability.

Fiber: The basic material strands that make up the carpet pile, such as wool, nylon, or polyester.

Fiber Identification: Determining the type of carpet fiber to select appropriate cleaning methods and chemicals.

Fibers: Individual strands twisted together to form the yarn in a carpet.

Filtration Soiling: Dark lines that appear along walls or under doors due to air passing through the carpet and depositing dirt.

Fluffing: The process of lifting and separating carpet fibers after cleaning to restore their appearance.

Foam Stabilizer: An additive in foam cleaning solutions that maintains consistent foam quality during application.

Fray: The unraveling or wearing away of carpet fibers, typically at the edges or seams.

Fringe: Decorative tassels on the edges of rugs, requiring special care during cleaning to prevent damage.

G

Germicides: Chemicals used during cleaning to kill or inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms in the carpet.

Green Carpet Cleaning: Environmentally friendly cleaning methods using non-toxic, biodegradable products.

Green Cleaning: Cleaning practices that prioritize environmental health and sustainability.

Grime: Accumulated dirt, grease, and oils that adhere to carpet fibers over time.

Grooming: Brushing or raking the carpet fibers after cleaning to restore pile direction and improve appearance.

H

HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air): A type of filter that captures very fine particles, improving air quality during vacuuming.

High-Traffic Areas: Sections of carpet that receive frequent use, often showing more wear and requiring regular cleaning.

Home Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning: Professional cleaning services for residential carpets and upholstered furniture.

Hot Water Extraction: A deep cleaning method using hot water and cleaning agents injected into the carpet and immediately extracted.

Hydrocarbon Solvent: A solvent derived from petroleum used in dry cleaning to dissolve oily soils without water.

Hypoallergenic: Products or methods designed to reduce allergens, minimizing the risk of allergic reactions.

I

IICRC Certified Carpet Cleaning Technicians: Professionals certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, demonstrating expertise in industry standards.

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ): The quality of air within buildings, affected by pollutants like dust and allergens from carpets.

Ink Lifter: Specialized cleaning agents formulated to remove ink stains from carpets without damaging fibers.

In-Plant Cleaning: Cleaning rugs at a specialized facility equipped with advanced tools and controlled conditions.

Interim Cleaning: Maintenance cleaning performed between deep cleanings to keep carpets looking fresh.

Interim Maintenance: Regular upkeep activities such as vacuuming and spot cleaning to prolong carpet life and appearance.

J

Jute: A natural fiber used in carpet backing, sensitive to moisture and requiring careful cleaning to prevent shrinkage or mold.

K

None

L

LEED Certification: A recognition for buildings that meet specific environmental standards, including sustainable cleaning practices.

Light Fastness: The ability of carpet dyes to resist fading when exposed to sunlight or artificial light.

Loop Pile: A carpet construction where yarns are looped, creating a durable surface suitable for high-traffic areas.

Low Moisture Cleaning: Methods that use minimal water, reducing drying time and the risk of over-wetting.

M

Maintenance Program: A scheduled plan outlining regular cleaning and maintenance tasks to keep carpets in optimal condition.

Matting: The entanglement and flattening of carpet fibers due to foot traffic, resulting in a worn appearance.

Microfiber: Ultra-fine synthetic fibers used in cleaning tools for their ability to attract and hold dirt.

Moisture Extraction: The process of removing excess water from carpets after cleaning to accelerate drying.

N

Natural Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning: Cleaning methods utilizing natural, non-toxic products safe for people and pets.Natural Fiber Cleaner: Products formulated to clean carpets made of natural fibers like wool without causing damage.

Neutralizer: A chemical used to balance the pH of the carpet after cleaning, preventing issues like browning or residue.

Non-Resilient: Describes carpet fibers that do not easily return to their original shape after being compressed.

O

Odor Digester: Enzyme-based products that break down organic matter causing odors, effectively neutralizing smells.

Odor Neutralization: The process of eliminating unpleasant odors from carpets rather than just masking them.

Odor Neutralizer: Chemicals that chemically alter odor molecules to eliminate smells.

Odor Removal: The act of eliminating offensive odors through cleaning and deodorizing treatments.

Over Wetting: Applying excessive moisture during cleaning, which can lead to problems like mold growth or carpet shrinkage.

Oxidation: A chemical reaction used in some stain removal processes, where oxidizers break down stain molecules.

Oxidizer: Chemicals that facilitate oxidation, helping to remove stubborn stains like wine or coffee.

P

Padding: A cushioning layer placed under the carpet to provide support, comfort, and extend carpet life.

pH Balance: Maintaining the appropriate acidity or alkalinity levels in cleaning solutions for optimal effectiveness.

pH Level: A scale measuring how acidic or alkaline a substance is; crucial for selecting the right cleaning agents.

Pile: The visible surface of the carpet consisting of loops or cut fibers.

Pile Height: The length of the carpet fibers from the backing to the top of the pile.

Pile Lifting: Raising carpet fibers using specialized equipment to remove embedded dirt and restore appearance.

Pile Reversal: A phenomenon where carpet fibers bend in different directions, affecting how light reflects and causing shading.

Pivot Point: Areas where foot traffic changes direction, often showing more wear and requiring extra attention.

Post-Spot Treatment: Addressing any remaining spots or stains after the general cleaning process.

Powder Cleaning: See Absorbent Compound Cleaning; using a dry powder to absorb and remove soils.

Preconditioner: A solution applied before the main cleaning to loosen soils and prepare the carpet.

Preconditioning: The process of applying a preconditioner to enhance the effectiveness of the cleaning.

Pre-Spray & Extraction: Spraying cleaning agents onto the carpet before extracting them along with dissolved soils.

Pre-Spot Treatment: Treating specific spots and stains before the overall cleaning to improve removal.

Q

Quadrant Cleaning: Dividing a carpeted area into sections for systematic and thorough cleaning.

Quality Assurance: Ensuring that cleaning services meet established standards for effectiveness and customer satisfaction.

Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Quats): Disinfectants used in cleaning solutions to kill bacteria and viruses.

Quick-Drying: Cleaning methods or products designed to reduce drying time, minimizing downtime and risk of issues like mold.

R

Raking: Using a carpet rake to lift and align fibers, enhancing appearance and aiding in drying.

Re-Stretching: The process of tightening loose carpet to eliminate wrinkles and improve appearance.

Residue: Any cleaning agent or soil left behind after cleaning, which can attract more dirt if not properly removed.

Resilience: The ability of carpet fibers to bounce back to their original shape after being compressed.

Restoration Cleaning: Intensive cleaning techniques used to restore carpets that are heavily soiled or damaged.

Rinse Agent: A solution used during rinsing to remove any remaining cleaning agents from the carpet fibers.

Rinsing: The act of flushing out cleaning solutions to prevent residue and ensure a clean finish.Rippling: The formation of waves or bubbles in carpet, often due to improper installation or environmental factors.

Rotary Brush: A machine with rotating brushes used to agitate and clean carpet fibers more deeply.

Rotary Extractor: Equipment combining rotary action with suction to extract soils from deep within the carpet pile.

Rotary Machine: A cleaning device with a rotating head used for various carpet cleaning methods.

Rotary Shampoo Cleaning: A method using a rotary machine to apply shampoo and scrub the carpet, followed by extraction.

Rug Cleaning: The specialized process of cleaning area rugs, which may involve different techniques than wall-to-wall carpeting.

S

Scotchgard: A brand-name protective treatment applied to carpets to repel liquids and resist staining.

Scrubbing: Vigorous cleaning using brushes to remove stubborn dirt and stains from carpet fibers.

Seam: The line where two pieces of carpet are joined together, requiring careful cleaning to maintain integrity.

Shading: Variations in carpet color due to differences in pile direction or light reflection, often appearing as light or dark patches.

Shampoo: A cleaning solution specifically formulated for removing soils from carpets during the shampooing process.

Shampooing: A method involving applying shampoo to the carpet, agitating to loosen dirt, and extracting the solution.

Shedding: The release of loose fibers from new carpets, common in cut-pile constructions and typically temporary.

Soil: Unwanted substances like dirt, dust, and organic matter present on or in the carpet.

Soiling: The process of a carpet becoming dirty due to the accumulation of soils over time.

Spot Cleaning: Targeted removal of individual spots or stains using specialized cleaning agents.

Spotting: See Spot Cleaning.Spotting Agents: Specialized chemicals formulated to treat specific types of stains effectively.

Stain: A discoloration caused by substances that have penetrated and bonded with the carpet fibers.

Stain Protector: A treatment applied to carpets to create a barrier against future staining.

Stain Repellency: The ability of a carpet to resist absorbing staining substances due to protective treatments.

Stain Resistant: Describes carpets made or treated to resist staining, making maintenance easier.

Static Electricity: The buildup of electrical charges on carpet fibers, which can attract dust and cause discomfort.

Steam Carpet Cleaning: Often used interchangeably with hot water extraction; uses heated water and cleaning agents to deep clean carpets.

Surface Tension: The property of liquids that affects how cleaning solutions spread and penetrate carpet fibers; reducing it improves cleaning efficiency.

Synthetic Fibers: Man-made fibers like nylon, polyester, and olefin used in carpets for durability and stain resistance.

T

Texture Retention: The ability of a carpet to maintain its original texture and appearance despite foot traffic and cleaning.

Thermo-Fogging: A deodorization method where heated fog containing odor neutralizers is dispersed into the carpet.

Traffic Areas: Sections of carpet that receive frequent foot traffic and may require more frequent cleaning.

Traffic Lane: Pathways in the carpet where people regularly walk, often showing more wear and soil.

Traffic Lane Cleaner: Cleaning agents designed to break down heavy soils in high-traffic areas for effective cleaning.

Traffic Lane Gray: The grayish discoloration that appears in heavily trafficked areas due to accumulated soils.

Truck-Mounted Cleaning: Carpet cleaning using powerful equipment mounted on a vehicle, offering superior extraction and faster cleaning.

Tufting: The process of creating carpet by inserting yarn into a backing material to form the pile.

U

Underlay: Also known as padding; a cushioning layer placed beneath the carpet for support and comfort.

Upholstery: Fabric coverings on furniture like sofas, chairs, and drapes.

Upholstery Cleaning: Professional services focused on cleaning and maintaining furniture fabrics.

V

Vacuuming: The removal of loose dirt and debris from carpets using a vacuum cleaner, essential for regular maintenance.

Velvet Cut: A type of carpet with a smooth, velvety surface created by cutting the loops of the pile yarns.

W

Wand: A handheld tool used with extraction equipment to apply cleaning solutions and extract soils from carpets.

Water Clarity: The clearness of the water being extracted during cleaning, indicating the effectiveness of soil removal.

Water Extraction: The process of removing excess water from carpets after cleaning or flooding to prevent damage.

Water Hardness: The concentration of minerals like calcium and magnesium in water, which can affect cleaning efficacy.

Wet Cleaning: Carpet cleaning methods that involve significant amounts of water, such as hot water extraction.

Wetting Agent: Chemicals that reduce the surface tension of water, allowing cleaning solutions to penetrate fibers more effectively.

Wicking: The upward movement of moisture and dissolved soils to the carpet surface during drying, potentially causing spots.

Wool Fibers: Natural fibers from sheep used in carpets for their softness and resilience, requiring special care during cleaning.

X

Xenon Light Fastness Test: A laboratory test that assesses how well carpet colors resist fading under simulated sunlight exposure.

Xylene: A solvent used cautiously to remove certain stubborn stains like adhesives or oil-based paints from carpets.

Y

Yellowing: Discoloration of carpet fibers, often resulting from aging, chemical reactions, or exposure to certain cleaning agents.

Z

Z-Bar: A metal strip used to secure carpet edges and create a smooth transition between different flooring types.Zonal Cleaning: A systematic cleaning approach where the carpeted area is divided into zones for efficient and thorough cleaning.