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• Carpet Cleaning

Hot water extraction, or steam cleaning*, is a cleaning method that begins with dry soil removal (vacuuming) followed by preconditioning. Then, hot water is applied [110° to 165°F (49° to 83°C)] to the carpet from a holding tank or heating coil incorporated into the cleaning unit, often combined with detergent. The pressurized solution is injected into the carpet. Suspended soil is removed by combining the flushing action of injected solutions with wet vacuuming. [Note: Ad links featured on this page are not affiliated with IICRC and should not be considered a recommendation or endorsement by IICRC.]

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Solution and suspended soil are collected within a wastewater recovery tank or disposal system. This method can be used on carpet whose fibers, dyes and construction are not adversely affected by water-based cleaners, as long as overwetting is avoided and thorough wet vacuuming to remove excess moisture occurs.

*Note that "live steam" is not employed in this cleaning process, only warm or hot water. "Steam cleaning" is commonly used as an accepted term to describe this cleaning method.

About IICRC

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is a non-profit certifying body for the floor and carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning and disaster restoration industry. Organized in 1972, the IICRC currently represents more than 5200 Certified Firms and more than 42,000 Certified Technicians in 33 countries. The IICRC sets consensus standards for inspection, cleaning and disaster restoration. Locate IICRC-Certified Firms at www.certifiedcleaners.org.