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Carpet Cleaning Chemicals 101: What You Need to Know

Whether you’re thinking about starting a carpet cleaning business or just want to know how to get the most out of the chemicals you buy, it’s essential to understand what they do and how they work. The pH level of your cleaning mixture is one key factor in determining how effectively your carpet can be cleaned. This article explains what pH means, why it matters, and how you can use this knowledge to get better results from your carpet cleaning efforts. 

What is pH? 

pH is a measure of how acidic or basic a substance is on a scale of 1 to 14. A pH of 7 is neutral, while numbers below 7 indicate acidity, and numbers above 7 indicate alkalinity. 

When it comes to cleaning and restoration, you can use this knowledge to your advantage by adjusting the pH level of certain cleaners for better results. For example, in order for soap and detergents to foam up when used in hot water, the solution must be slightly acidic (between 6-8 on the pH scale). But if you want something that will clean better at lower temperatures—like cold water—you’ll want an alkaline cleaner with a higher pH level (9-11) that won’t degrade as quickly when used at room temperature or below. 

It’s also important not just because it affects the cleaning power of your chemicals but because it impacts how well they protect against mold growth after cleaning has been completed. 

Which Carpet Cleaning Chemicals Are Acidic or Alkaline? 

The terms “acidic” and “alkaline” refer to the pH level of a substance. At any given time, there’s an equilibrium between acids and bases in your carpeting: some are acidic, and some are basic (or alkaline). Carpet fibers are made primarily out of cellulose; cellulose is a compound that has both acidic and basic properties. When you treat your carpet with cleaning chemicals, they react with these fibers and can cause them to change color or become stiffer if they’re not correctly diluted or get too much exposure over time. 

Why You Should Care About the pH of Carpet Cleaning Chemicals 

Most carpets have a low level of acidity (pH 6-8) and can be safely cleaned at that level. However, if you have an area of high acidity or harsh chemicals have damaged your carpet in the past, it may be best to use a neutral cleaner for that area. 

This information should help you decide which chemical solution would work best for your situation. Still, there are many other factors to consider when choosing a carpet cleaning product! 

How to Get the Most Out of Your Carpet Cleaning Chemicals 

Knowing the pH of your cleaning chemicals and water can help determine the best method for restoring your carpet to a clean, healthy state. 

pH is not the only factor in carpet cleaning, but it is a very important one. Carpet manufacturers calculate the optimal pH level for their products to provide an optimal environment for fibers to maintain their appearance and durability. When carpet fibers absorb water with a low pH, they swell slightly due to their natural oils being released into the solution. This makes them less susceptible to stain penetration and helps repel dirt particles from adhering too quickly when dry vacuuming or sweeping up after cleaning. 

Our Top Carpet Cleaning Chemicals 

Here are a few of the best-selling products that we recommend for professional carpet cleaners: 

Avenge stain remover: Avenge has a unique synergistic action that allows a spotter with a neutral pH to remove over 85% of water-based stains, as well as many combinations of oil and water-based stains from carpet and upholstery. 

Benefect multi-purpose cleaner: A revolutionary plant-based Cleaner Concentrate that achieves the professional results you need without using hazardous synthetic chemicals. 

Bioesque disinfectant: If you want something that will disinfect surfaces in homes or offices without leaving behind any residue or causing damage to fabrics or surfaces, this is it! 

Why Professional Carpet Cleaners Supply? 

Professional Carpet Cleaners Supply has a massive selection of cleaning chemicals for carpet, hardwood, and tile floors, as well as specialty products for all your business needs. We offer some of the best carpet cleaning chemicals in the industry at the best prices. Browse our selection today and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest deals!