Green Clean: The Revolution in Carpet Care Standards
“Going green” is a trend that has been carried right on into 2024. Homes are doing it. Businesses are on board. Governments, rights groups and NGOs are pushing for it. We all have a responsibility to the environment, and those around us. The carpet cleaning industry has not been left behind. Traditional methods often involve harsh chemicals and excessive water usage, which not only harm the environment but also pose health risks to users and cleaners. Making the stich is a matter of necessity.
At its core, it’s eco-friendly carpet is about ditching harmful chemicals and excessive water use, and turning to sustainable and biodegradable cleaning agents. It involves energy-efficient processes and equipment, minimising the carbon footprint of cleaning operations. Basically making conscientious choices — from the products used to the methods employed, right through to responsible waste management, ensuring that the entire cleaning process leaves as little environmental impact as possible.
When Cleaning Takes A Toll
Everyday cleaning products, including those used for carpet care may release hundreds of hazardous VOCs. These VOCs can contaminate indoor air two to five times more than outdoor air, sometimes even up to ten times more. Some products emit VOCs for extended periods, posing long-term health risks. People working in the cleaning industry, including carpet cleaners, face a 50% higher risk of developing asthma and a 43% higher risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Women in this field also have an increased risk of lung cancer.
Some chemicals, often including perchloroethylene, naphthalene, and butyloxy ethanol, can cause a range of adverse health effects, from nausea and dizziness to more severe issues like liver and kidney damage. Additionally, there’s a risk of them seeping into the padding or the floor, potentially contaminating the water supply through wastewater. Plant-based, non-toxic solutions significantly reduce risks associated chemical runoff and are safer for both human health and the environment.
Benefits of Eco-Friendly Practices
There’s a sense of freshness that comes when you’re in a setting where you know that the cleaning has been thoroughly done, but without that harsh, chemical smell. You feel good knowing that what went down the drain won’t harm plants around your home of fish in the waterbodies. Even business owners can proudly tell their customers about this choice. It’s both a selling point and a statement of their values. The customers walk in, see the sparkling clean carpets, and feel a sense of trust and respect for the business. It’s a win-win – the business does its bit for the environment, and the customers appreciate their effort.
Additional benefits of going this route include:
Improved Indoor Air Quality: You don’t want to be in a space that is choke-full of VOCs and other pollutants. Sustainable products include formulations where the agents are safe for the occupants of the premises, and pets as well. The little ones are more susceptible to the harmful effects of toxic cleaners. Eco-friendly carpet cleaning ensures that the surfaces they play on are not covered in such chemicals. Situations where there are overpowering smells of chemicals in the air are also not conducive for your guests. There’ll be a visible discomfort on visits, which is not a position you want to put them in.
Longer Carpet Lifespan: Your goal with the cleaning is to get rid of the dirt and grime, not destroy the carpet in the process. Harsh chemicals can damage the material over time, leading to a shorter lifespan for your carpets. Eco-friendly cleaning solutions are gentler, helping to preserve the integrity and appearance of your carpets for longer. Will they still be effective in removing the soiling? Yes – professional cleaners have access to solutions that will be tough on the grime, but gentle on the carpet.
Allergy and Asthma Friendly: Let’s touch on this group of people, who are particularly vulnerable to the fumes that are in conventional cleaning agents. The chemical residues make the air feel heavy, almost irritating to breathe. When the cleaning is done, you want them to be breathing easy, no sign of a sniffle or cough. A safe haven that respects their health. So, for the sake of your and others’ health, eco-friendly is the way to go.
Cost-Effectiveness: Turns out that clean your carpet with natural solutions bodes well for your budget too. For starters, contrary to popular belief, the products are affordably priced. You won’t need to go heavy and spend on any excessive protective equipment. The powerful cleaning that wards off the wear and tear on the carpet is a welcome bonus.
Certifications & Proof Of Quality
Any company can claim its products are safe for the environment. You need trustes third parties to certify it. There are different organizations around the world that are tasked with this, looking at various aspects of the products. These include:
Green Seal: Renowned for its stringent environmental standards, Green Seal certification is a badge of sustainability and health. It covers various aspects, including reduced toxicity, waste minimization, and energy efficiency.
EcoLogo: This is certification is a voluntary life cycle-based environmental certification that looks at multiple attributes. The certification process evaluates a comprehensive set of criteria, which may include environmental, health, and social aspects. EcoLogo is classified as an ISO Type 1 ecolabel and has also been vouched for by the Global Ecolabeling Network
The Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) Green Label: This certification focuses specifically on carpet cleaning solutions and equipment – and the emissions they produce.
EU Ecolabel: Recognized across Europe, the EU Ecolabel focuses on reducing environmental impact throughout a product’s life cycle, from production to disposal. It includes criteria for biodegradability and aquatic toxicity.
Look at the product label for such kinds of certifications. For businesses, these certifications are not just logos on their products or services; they are a testament to their commitment to sustainability. They help in building trust with environmentally conscious consumers and can be a differentiating factor in a competitive market.
For consumers, they serve as a guide in a market flooded with choices, helping them make informed decisions. They assure customers that the products or services they choose align with their values of environmental stewardship and health safety.
The standards look used in for the certifications look at:
Water Usage: One key standard is the reduction of water usage. Eco-friendly carpet cleaning methods aim to minimize water waste, crucial in conserving this precious resource.
Chemical Restrictions: Limiting or eliminating the use of harmful chemicals is another crucial standard. This includes phasing out substances that are toxic, non-biodegradable, or harmful to aquatic life.
Energy Efficiency: Standards also emphasize the use of energy-efficient equipment. This reduces the carbon footprint of the cleaning process.
Waste Management: Proper waste disposal and recycling practices are part of eco-friendly standards, ensuring that post-cleaning activities don’t harm the environment.
The Role of Consumers and Businesses in Shaping the Future
Consumer demand is a powerful driver of change. As more individuals and businesses become environmentally conscious, their choices will push the carpet cleaning industry towards greener practices. They will increasingly seek out services that are not only effective but also environmentally responsible.
On the other hand, businesses are recognizing that eco-friendly practices are not just ethically right, but also economically sensible. Innovations in eco-friendly cleaning are often more cost-effective in the long run and appeal to a growing market segment.
DIY Techniques That Are A Threat
Let’s explore these no-nos, so you can steer clear and keep both your carpets and household safe.
First up, bleach. Sure, it’s a powerful disinfectant, but it can ruin the carpet, discolouring beyond repair, leaving you with blotchy, faded patches. And for your health? Inhaling bleach fumes can irritate your lungs, eyes, and skin.
Then there’s ammonia. It might cut through grime, but it’s far too harsh for carpets. It can damage the fibres and fade colours, especially in wool carpets. Plus, the fumes can cause respiratory issues and irritate your eyes and skin. It’s better left for other cleaning tasks, not carpets.
Using excessive water is another common mistake. Over-wetting a carpet can lead to mould and mildew growth underneath. This not only damages the carpet but also poses serious health risks, like respiratory problems and allergies. Always use water sparingly and ensure your carpet dries completely.
Some people turn to kerosene or gasoline for tough stains. This is extremely risky! These flammable substances can pose a serious fire hazard. Plus, they leave behind a strong, unpleasant odour and can ruin the carpet’s texture. It’s better to stick to less volatile options.
Another tempting but harmful solution is overusing baking soda. In moderation, it’s a great deodoriser, but too much can clog the fibres of your carpet, leading to long-term damage. It’s also a chore to clean up, often requiring professional help.
Lastly, avoid using hot water on stains. It might seem like a good idea to ‘melt away’ the stain, but it often does the opposite. Hot water can set the stain deeper into the carpet, making it even harder to remove.
EcoFriendly Carpet Cleaning Services Near You
Let’s not forget how labourious the chore of giving your carpet a thorough wash is. You start with a vacuum, lugging it around, manoeuvring under furniture. You’re bending, stretching, reaching into every corner. Dust and fluff everywhere, and it’s just the beginning.
Then, there’s the deep clean. You’re on your hands and knees, scrubbing away at stubborn stains. The cleaning solution’s smell fills the air, and your arms ache with every scrub. You rinse, repeat, but the stains are relentless. Hours slip by, and the carpet is still damp. Is that how you really want to spend your weekend? You could be elsewhere, deeply engrossed in your hobby, to battling with months of grime buried in the carpet.
The worst part? After all this effort, the carpet doesn’t always look much better. You’re left wondering if all that time and energy was worth it. It’s frustrating when you’ve invested hours, poured in physical labour, and braved the challenge, yet the carpet looks disappointingly similar to how it did before. Yes, some of the surface dirt is gone, but those deep-set stains are still there, mocking your efforts. And the overall colour of the carpet lacks the vibrancy you hoped to restore.
So why not let the experts handle it? They’ve got all the right tools and know-how to tackle even the most stubborn stains. Think about it – no more wrestling with your carpet, no more wasted efforts. These pros come armed with advanced equipment and special cleaning solutions that dive deep into the fibres of your carpet. They’ll whisk away those stubborn stains and all the hidden dirt that your regular cleaners can’t reach.
You get the added benefit of having your carpet dry quicker. This reduces the disruption to your space, and also prevent mould or mildew from pitching root What’s more, when you do this on a regular basis, you get to prolong the life of the unit. After all, the dirt and grime that accumulate on it are the main reasons whey it deteriorates quickly. You can also get ant-staining treatments applied to icnrase the protection to the carpet.
When hiring a carpet cleaning company, you’ll need do your bit of homework. There are plenty of cheap knock-offs out there that will leave you angry and exasperated. First off, look for a company with a solid reputation. Check out their reviews online and ask for recommendations from friends or family. Experience matters too. How long have they been in business? What kinds of carpets are they conversant with? Ask about their cleaning techniques to ensure they’re up-to-date with the latest and most effective methods. Don’t forget to inquire about their drying times and how they handle stubborn stains. Transparency matters as well. Are they clear about their pricing and services? You don’t want to get any hidden fees or surprises. Remember, a good company not only leaves your carpets looking and smelling fresh but also prioritizes customer satisfaction and care.