There are many different methods on the market today for carpet cleaning and all of them claim to be the best method. The IICRC has broken down the methods into two separate and distinct categories - Interim cleaning methods and Restorative cleaning methods. The following definitions are taken from the IICRC S 100 Reference Manual for carpet cleaning.
#SYMBOL \f "WP TypographicSymbols"65Interim cleaning is a high production, fast drying processes used between regular restorative cleanings. It is characterized as light surface cleaning. The frequency of interim cleaning depends on traffic, carpet location, use and exposure to soiling. Trained technicians using the procedures defined in this standard should perform interim cleaning. Some interim cleaning methods are more effective in soil suspension and removal than others. The frequency of restorative cleaning is dependent upon the effectiveness of the daily maintenance* and interim cleaning programs and methods used. #SYMBOL \f "WP TypographicSymbols"65
#SYMBOL \f "WP TypographicSymbols"65Restorative cleaning is the process of extracting or removed entrapped soils and residues. The characteristics of the restorative process are typically higher moisture levels, lower production rates and slower drying. Frequency of restorative cleaning depends on the effectiveness of daily maintenance* and interim cleaning processes, as well as traffic, carpet location, use and exposure to soiling.#SYMBOL \f "WP TypographicSymbols"64
The IICRC S 100 Standard also includes a chart which outlines the frequency of cleaning based on the type, residential or commercial, the traffic soil rating, and the daily maintenance of the carpet. This chart is divided into Residential and Commercial carpet types, and for Residential carpet ONLY Restorative cleaning is discussed. Interim cleaning methods are recommended by the IICRC for Commercial carpet only, and must be followed frequently by a restorative cleaning process.
Restorative cleaning involves pre-vacuuming the carpet, applying a detergent solution, then extracting the detergent solution and soils from the carpet using a high powered, truck mounted extraction unit. This method, commonly referred to as #SYMBOL \f "WP TypographicSymbols"65steam cleaning#SYMBOL \f "WP TypographicSymbols"64, was proven to be the best method based on soil removal capability and the least amount of damage to the carpet fibers
