Friday, October 13, 2017

7 Step Steam Cleaning Process Explained

OVER TIME THINGS GET GROUND IN, EVEN WITH DILIGENT CLEANING!  ALSO, FIBERS IN CARPETS AND UPHOLSTERY NEED THE INTENSE HEAT OF STEAM TO RETWIST AND REGAIN STRENGTH TO REPEL WEAR AND TEAR.. GROUT AND TEXTURE LINES IN TILE GET GRIMY.

YES, WE KNOW THAT THE STEAM WILL DISINFECT THESE SURFACES, BUT WHY A PROFESSIONAL?  IT’S NOT “THAT” DIRTY, RIGHT? WHAT ABOUT A “SHARK”?

If steam-cleaning products, such as the ones in the link below, are so available at a low price, usually around $100.00, why do homeowners need professionals?

http://steamcleanery.com/best-steam-cleaner-for-tile-floors/

Great Question!  Note how each product is marketed so smoothly with sparkling floors and perfect homemakers?  It looks so effortless to keep everything spotless, just buy the advertised cleaning unit.  However, many things keep these cute little tools from being truly effective.  Our best customers have clean homes to start with and we still see drastic results when using professional cleaning methods.  

Have you ever wondered why a professional would be willing to invest $30K-100K in equipment and in depth training to clean for customers?  Trust us, it’s not just for those who “can’t clean for themselves”.  The steam cleaning we use at Old West Cleaning is a unique 7-step process and requires powerful equipment, specific chemistry and intensive training.

STEAM CLEAN THESE SURFACES:  Carpets, Upholstery, Ceramic Tile & Grout, Saltillo or Terrazzo Tile & Grout or even Travertine and Stone Tiles.

1. Pre-treat
2. Agitate
3. Steam Clean/Extraction
4. Agitate trouble areas with specific solutions for each type of problem
5. Steam Clean/Extraction
6. Drying Extraction/Vacuum
7. Groom Carpets (except for looped nap), apply fabric protectant.  On Tile & Grout apply grout sealer or tile sealer depending on the need.

NOTE:  Restoration cleanings require additional steps.  All cleanings are done under the assumption that the client has already performed the regular vacuuming, however we can arrange professional vacuum before steam cleaning when necessary at a small additional charge.

WE DO NOT USE STEAM TO CLEAN:  Wood, Vinyl and Laminate

At Old West Cleaning, we use all biodegradable products, mostly made from citrus and low moisture, low volume, high pressure, high heat and high extraction with the right chemistry at the right moment to accomplish our professional results.

Friday, October 6, 2017

Simple Steps for Proper Carpet Cleaning

Carpet cleaning is just like exercise! If you get into a routine and keep it up, you will see great results and feel better for it. Products that rate highly on CRI's Seal of Approval (SOA) program are your assurance that you will clean correctly the first time (more on the SOA program below). Here are four simple steps to keep your carpet clean and looking great!

1. Vacuum high traffic areas daily and everywhere according to vacuuming schedule, using an SOA/Green Label-approved vacuum. 
2. Clean spots and spills quickly with products that do not damage the carpet or cause it to re-soil more quickly. TRY OUR PRO-SPOTTER!
3. Professionally deep clean your carpets every 12 to 18 months to remove embedded dirt and grime. WHO TO CALL? Old West! 417-1881
4. Stop dirt at the door by using mats outside and in, taking your shoes off when you enter the house and changing your air filters to reduce airborne dust particles.
 
What about Upholstery?  Again, vacuum.  However, a lint roller can do wonders between vacuuming and may be necessary with some pets.  Or, sometimes a horsehair brush can do the trick as well.  Be sure to lift up and vacuum under the pillows, flipping them around regularly if have the same pattern, etc.  Also lift sitting furniture off the floor and sweep or vacuum underneath.
 
Tile and Grout?  Sweep or vacuum daily.  Mop regularly, minimum once per week, more for families over 2-3 people.  It is best to mop with a proper mixture of a cleaning solution in hot water.  Then come back and rinse, for best results rinse with a white vinegar and hot water mixture.  Be sure to agitate the grout lines and any textured tile areas when mopping with your cleaner-that’s where grease & oils are dissolved.  The rinse takes away any film left by cleaning products.  Dry quickly with fans if possible.