Cleaning carpets, whether vacuuming or actually extracting them is an important part of extending the life of a carpet. Use caution though because if you clean it too often or not properly you run the risk of reducing its life. Therefore, I recommend you introduce this into your training program.

So that we can focus more closely on just one method of carpet cleaning we will only discuss the method of extraction in this article. So that everyone knows there are only three main ways to clean carpets and those are shampooing, extracting, and bonnet cleaning. Although most incorrectly call it shampooing, the most popular way to clean carpets is extracting.

The extraction method of carpet cleaning I feel is the quickest and easiest method to use. However, you need the right machine for the right job. I would not recommend going out and buying the least expensive one unless you have already done your comparison shopping. Pay special attention to the power of the vacuum motor.

Before beginning make sure you have all the equipment you need, such as; a vacuum, an extractor, a pretreatment , a cleaning solution, spot remover, and a floor fan. You may also want to have close by wet floor signs if the area still has activity close by.

Before getting started I would strongly suggest you select an out of the way area so that you can test the cleaning solutions to make sure they will not discolor or harm the carpet fibers. As a suggestion you may look for a closet that is carpeted. Carpets such as wool are very difficult and require special chemicals and I would stay away from cleaning them unless you are an expert.

Make sure you get your carpet extractor ready to go by filling you're your cleaning solution in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, and then leave it ready to go in the area to be cleaned. For safety reasons do not leave it plugged in or with the key in the event someone passing by does not inadvertently engage it, especially if there are children present.

Block off and/or place wet floor caution signs appropriately. Remember if you are cleaning a carpet that borders a tile floor, make sure you put some type of mat so that if anyone comes of the wet carpet onto the tile they can dry their shoes first. Tile is very slippery if your shoes are wet.

Move any furniture. Vacuum thoroughly all the carpet, including edges. Work on any spots prior to beginning the carpet cleaning extraction process. Pre treat the carpets and wait according to the manufacturer's recommendation.

When cleaning any carpet make sure you start from the furthest point in the area and work your way toward the door. You should always overlap each and every pass. On high traffic areas you may want to slow down or pass over them more often but make sure you don't over saturate the carpet with water and chemical. That will break down the padding and carpet fibers. Another reason not to put too much water down is that if the carpet is glued it will break down the glue and you will get pieces of the carpet that buckle and clients do not like this at all.

After you have completely cleaned the carpets place the floor fans in the right location to quickly dry the carpets. When you are certain the carpets are dry replace the furniture to the original places. This is important to customer satisfaction.

Last but very important part is to clean the equipment. It will prolong the use of it and most importantly this will add to your bottom line. In addition, the customer will be impressed that not only do you clean carpets well but you present a very professional appearance throughout the process.