Use and Care Manual

2.0
2.0 VACUUMING
VACUUMING
THE MOST IMPORTANT MAINTENANCE TASK
Frequent and thorough vacuuming is the single most
important component of a carpet maintenance program.
Studies of the soil composition in a facility show that
roughly 80% is dry, insoluble soil, or what most of us
refer to as dirt. The most efficient way to remove this dry,
insoluble soil is with frequent and thorough vacuuming.
Soil accumulation is inevitable if vacuuming isn’t planned at
routine intervals. The best way to plan your vacuuming is
to identify high-, medium- and low-traffic areas. Continually
monitor these areas for changes in carpet performance and
make adjustments to the maintenance schedule as needed.
It is important to note that carpet is a three-dimensional
product. Unlike hard, two-dimensional flooring, carpet has
depth and the ability to hide soiling. Carpet can trap and
hold up to one pound of dirt per square foot before it appears
dirty, which is a major advantage that carpet has over other
flooring types. Even though it may not appear dirty, carpet
requires routine maintenance, particularly vacuuming, to
remove soiling and keep it looking beautiful for years.
VACUUMING TIPS
Vacuum with slow, deliberate passes in length and width
for maximum effectiveness.
Heavy traffic areas require multiple passes back and
forth to sufficiently extract embedded soil.
A vacuum with a brush roller will provide agitation to
help with soil removal.
Slow movement allows time for air to circulate through
the face yarn and extract soil.
RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT
To adequately remove dry soil with routine vacuuming,
you will need to ensure that you use the proper equipment.
Mohawk recommends:
An upright, dual-motor vacuum with a brush roller and
high-efficiency filtration for the bulk of your vacuum-
ing needs. Dual-motor vacuums have one motor for the
vacuum suction and one for the brush roller.
A wide-area vacuum for large corridors and other
wide-open areas.
A backpack or canister vacuum for stairs.