Carpet Cleaning and PH Myths
The acidity or alkalinity of a cleaning solution will impact its safety and efficacy for different types of fibers, dyes, and soils, which is why one-size-fits-all guidelines for carpet cleaning and pH can be detrimental. There also are more than one set of carpet cleaning guidelines. The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification commissioned Dr. Al Luedtke, a chemist, to write a white paper on carpet cleaning and pH. Luedtke's paper pointed out that the pH of a product alone was an inadequate measurement of its compatibility with a fiber. Included in the "Professional Cleaning of Textile Floor Coverings" fifth and sixth editions, some instructors are teaching pH for carpet cleaning with a different approach. Another common misconception about carpet cleaning and pH is that the pH scale goes from 0 to 14, but it is possible to have a negative pH value and a pH higher than 14. Experts say pH can be complicated, and technicians should not rely on oversimplified guidelines. A pH meter can be a useful tool in telling technicians what kind of products the previous cleaner used, helping identify stains, allowing technicians to properly neutralize rust removers, and in spot dyeing.