Cleaning Carpets- Let's Learn Some Terms

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

Every career field has special terminology. Understanding that terminology and using them gives you credibility as professionals within your industry. Let's take a look at some of the terminology your SERVPRO professional would use when cleaning your carpets. 

Absorption would be a common word used to describe some stain removal processes in carpets and textiles. This word means that liquids or gases are taken into the fabric and fibers through capillary, osmotic, or chemical reactions. An example would be the use of a towel or stain absorbing powder to move the liquid from one to the other. 

Adsorption would most likely be an unfamiliar word that describes a substance being attached to the surface of the fabric or textile. An example would be applying a topical treatment such as a fire retardant or stain retardant. 

Dispersion is the breaking up of solid soils so they can be separated and suspended in the cleaning solution. Another term to describe this process is deflocculation. 

Surfactants are used to lower the surface tension of water-based products. It makes water "wetter"! Detergents, alcohol-based products, and heat are all surfactants. 

Next time you have your carpet cleaned, you'll know the terms of the professionals!